In the heart of winter, the cosy confines of a theatre is where you can experience a taste of multicultural culture.
True to form, Mandar Vaidya, who founded Melbourne’s Natyadarpan Indian Theatre Academy in 2016, is busy preparing for ‘Shishir’ in July. Meaning ‘winter’ in Sanskrit, Shishir symbolises reflection and new beginnings, perfectly aligning with the themes of the two plays it will showcase: ‘Consolation’ and ‘Anurag.’
“This project, involving over 70 actors and crew, provides a platform for forming strong friendships and working towards a creative goal, giving new meaning to winter 2024. Proceeds will support Friends of the Children’s Foundation Inc., aiding children’s hospitals and various other charities. Through this, we aim to give back to the community, redefining ‘Shishir’ as our way of sharing gratitude and bounty,” says Vaidya.
‘Anuraag,’ co-directed by Namrata Sharma and Vaidya, is an enchanting music and dance extravaganza depicting a timeless Indian love story. It tells the tale of two classic romantic characters, showcasing their journey and the hurdles they overcome to unite, all brought to life through drama, music, and dance.
‘Consolation,’ featuring 21 young artists, explores themes such as excessive screen time, societal pressures, and the power of friendship. It delves into the struggles and triumphs of young people in today’s world.
From his spot beside the stage, directing a play that integrates multiple art forms like drama, dance, and music, Vaidya reflects on the collaborative effort behind his project.
“Namrata, a seasoned actress and director, brought immense talent. Dr Anamika Sharma, a Hindi language teacher, assisted with adaptation and pronunciation. Neeraj Jain, an IT professional and Hindi poet, contributed cultural depth and creative insights, enriching the script with authenticity and vibrancy,” he explains.
And there are others such as Chanchal Kumavat, a renowned figure in Rajasthani and other cultural groups, whose choreography beautifully captures the characters’ emotional nuances.
Saurabh Mishra, a versatile volunteer, musician, actor, and theatre producer, adds music with depth and emotion, enhancing the storytelling.
Roy Kossena, says Vaidya, is an experienced lyricist and vocalist with many original numbers under his belt, whose writing bring a raw, honest perspective to the plays. The music of ‘Consolation’ is composed by Abhijit Joshi, a well-known musician in Melbourne who has worked with us for more than 12 years.”
The cast of ‘Shishir’ has worked incredibly hard, balancing family and work commitments while volunteering their time and energy.
Balancing the two plays involves meticulous planning and a clear vision for each. “I ensure that both productions receive equal attention and resources while maintaining their distinct identities,” says Vaidya.
He is hoping for a cohesive yet diverse experience for the audience by focusing on the core themes of each play and weaving them into the broader narrative of ‘Shishir.’
Vaidya hopes ‘Shishir’ inspires future productions that embrace cultural diversity and artistic collaboration, fostering a vibrant and inclusive theatre community. ‘Anuraag’ showcases the richness of Indian culture, while ‘Consolation’ addresses universal issues faced by youth from various backgrounds. “Together, they highlight the beauty of our multicultural society.”
While seeing the dedication and passion of everyone involved has been incredibly rewarding, Vaidya believes that, more importantly, theatre brings stories to life, allowing audiences to experience different cultures and perspectives. It fosters empathy and understanding, promoting a more inclusive and culturally rich community, he notes.
The days of winter are looking warm.
The Indian Sun acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.
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