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Dola Mascarenhas has proved herself to be a fine actress and singer on the tiatr stage. And now, as a writer and director, her first production, Superstar, is all about childless couples, and how, when all else fails, some of them resort to surrogacy.
ABOUT THE TIATR
Out of greed for money, would a young, beautiful girl dare to take a risky step, such as surrogacy, and make a big sacrifice in life? Would she be willing to risk a bright career and ruin her future? Resorting to take such a step in extreme situations or circumstances is understandable.
The curtain unfolds to a scene wherein a taxi driver (Vishal Gawas) awaits his regular customers from abroad. Their arrival at the airport excites him and he is willing to assist them as he gets his commission for services rendered.
But this time, Robin (Spirito) and his spouse, Edel (Delina), have different plans on arrival and during their stay in Goa. As the couple is childless, they are on the lookout for a surrogate mother. And to make their dreams come true, they seek help from their regular taxi operator.
And then, there’s Tomas (Normandez) and his spouse Dynora (Dola), residing with their daughter Saynora (Jennifer). Saynora has big dreams and hopes to get into the Bollywood film industry. But, will she be able to bear all the finances to make a grand entry there?
In order to make a fast buck and fulfill her long-cherished dream, the taxi driver coaxes Saynora into taking up the offer made by Robin and his spouse. Initially, she thinks about her career, and is reluctant. However, she later accepts the offer.
This major decision, taken by Saynora regarding surrogacy, is kept a secret from her parents. However, she reveals everything to her close friend, Jesline (Denzilia), who after much reluctance supports her.
As the months pass by, the doctor reveals that the unborn child in Saynora’s womb will be born with a defect. Hearing this, Robin and Edel decide to go away without the child. Saynora is shocked, and left alone to face her fate.
Now, will Saynora’s parents accept her as she is? After delivery, what is Saynora’s decision? Will she part with the child in order to focus on making her career and future bright?
BEHIND THE SCENES
All the artistes have given fine performances. Normandez and Dola are projected as guardians and they do justice to their roles. Jennifer Fernando as the daughter is in the lead role.
Vishal Gawas, Spirito, Delina and Denzilia extend good support in their respective characters. Dolly makes a cameo as a doctor.
This tiatr carries good cantos and are a treat to the ears. In the comic acts, there’s comedian Humbert, Agnelo, Joyel, Dylan, Rizma and Gleny for a laughter riot. Unfortunately, in some scenes, comedy hits below the belt and is unpleasant.
For the listening pleasure of the audience, the opening song has siblings, Jennifer and Delina welcoming their mom, Dola, as the director on stage. There are solos from Nazario Pinto, Denzilia, Joe de Areal and newcomers, Aron and Rio.
A solo by Rons, appreciating the hard work of those working backstage is well accepted. There are also songs by Nazario and Aron; Beverly D’Costa and Melisa Mascarenhas; Denzilia and Dolly.
A comedy solo by Aron and another solo by Menino de Bandar receive encores. A duet, trio and quartet went amiss in the entire drama. Musicians offstage – Erol/Megan (trumpet), Ashban (saxophone), Rosario (keyboard), Holly (bass) and Macmilan (drums) – have extended good support to all the songs with some soothing music.
The stage sets are by Anthony de Ambaji, while Dinesh has assisted with the light effects.