An energetic masterpiece
Powerful and vivacious, One Night Only gorgeously combines an ancient epic with the struggles of the transgender community today.
The play follows Aravan, a man who only seeks to be worthy of remembrance. His father, Arjuna and along with him Krishna, seek a sacrifice worthy of Kali.
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As the story unfolds, the chorus provides a counterpoint to the poignant stories about living in a body that is not your own, being an outcast, and above all, seeking acceptance.
Throughout, dance is an integral part of the play’s energy, and each sequence is exquisitely choreographed and plays seamlessly into the progression of the plot.
The minimalist stage design added to this effect; even moving the three canvas screens was somehow incorporated into the cast’s movement. The humour of the dialogue contrasts with the overall intensity, which, although enjoyable, is at times disarming — a funny scene will shift to a serious one so quickly that it gives the audience a whiplash.
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However, One Night Only is an energetic masterpiece, which embraces every aspect, theatre has to offer.
Anna Duncan, Ooty
Seamless movements
The play One Night Only is a modern, intelligent portrayal of the Indian historical myth. As Aravan craves to become a remembered hero in legendary stories, he discovers a critical factor about himself; his father being the great Pandava warrior. However, Krishna has other plans for Aravan to serve, which must be accomplished in only one night. One night that could perhaps, just perhaps, make Aravan a legend, a remembered character. As the play weaves itself in outstanding dance and musical performances, the dialogue, expressions and emotions that are conveyed through each individual character encourages the audience to have a different perspective on different groups of people, and leaves the audience with immense awe towards the play.
Joyce Kim, Ooty
Celebrating the third gender
One Night Only shines light on an epic moment in TheMahabharata , where Arjun’s own son named Aravan, surrenders his life to godess Kali, as he has the 32 qualities required for a sacrifice, to please the gods for Krishna to win the war. The play’s name One Night Only hence comes from Aravan’s demand for one of the three boons ,which is to be married, before the day of the sacrifice.
The story thus moves onto the quest of Lord Krishna himself transforming into a woman for one night as no other woman is prepared to sacrifice her nuptial life for just one night. Aravan’s boon is satisfied before he gives up his life for the greater good of the war. What was amazing about this play was, how the dance forms and body movements were used to enhance the scenes. These artforms were used to make the play more glamourous and attractive.
Ayushi Gupta, Nungambakkam