Women’s Christian College’s tradition of an annual college play began in 1917 — two years after the college was founded in 1915. Over the last nine decades, the college has ensured that this long-standing tradition continues, and this year, they will present French playwright Moliere’s play, Tartuffe .
A collaboration between teachers and students, the play is a joint endeavour, says Lilian Jasper, associate professor at WCC. There are committees to handle each aspect of the play — from ticketing to props to publicity. For WCC, the play is a way to ensure holistic education, and putting up a show is a great learning experience for both teachers and students, says Prof. Jasper.
The college usually picks a play with social relevance, and this year the focus is on the hypocrisy of godmen, as shown in Tartuffe . The story revolves around a rich, religious man. Orgon restructures his life to placate a false godman called Tartuffe. The latter is plotting to turn all the family members against each other and steal their wealth. Good versus evil, the hypocrisy of godmen, and the undercurrents in families are the themes explored in the play.
With a 21-member cast and a 60-member crew that comprises both teachers and students, this edition of WCC’s annual college play is bound to reflect the ethos of the institution. Tartuffe is directed by Hans Kaushik, with support from Magic Lantern.
When: September 29 and 30, October 1; at 6.30 p.m.
Where: College Auditorium, WCC, Nungambakkam