Goa tiatr review: There's a strong message in ‘Vaitt Adarun ...'

The tiatr Vaitt 'Adarun Borem Soddun', written and directed by Lenoy Gomendes, highlights the importance of choosing good over evil.

It sheds light on the life of Sr Lisha (Chitra), who dedicates herself to caring for orphans in an orphanage. Professor Antonio Braganza e Fernando (Normandez) lives at the ashram and supports her in her mission. Santan (Neto) and David (David), two of the residents, also assist Sr Lisha in her selfless work.

ABOUT THE TIATR

By nature, Sr Lisha is generous and always ready to help anyone in need. However, Professor Antonio, who suffers from asthma, is wicked at heart and harbours sinister plans to seize Sr Lisha’s property.

Dark thoughts continually plague Professor Antonio as he looks for ways to eliminate Sr Lisha. But, will his schemes ever succeed? Over time, allegations begin to surface, accusing Sr Lisha of being involved in religious conversions.

Inquiries are initiated by a CBI officer (Elvis Mascarenhas) and a police officer (Blyton), but will the nun be found guilty?

As the stage presentation progresses, a flashback unfolds, introducing a family where the father (George Gonsalves) lives with his son, Antonio (Francio), and daughter, Lisha (Molifa as a child, and Melvisha as a youth). Their upbringing and the strong family values instilled by their devout father are highlighted.

During their stay at the ashram, David and Santan, who are often hilarious are frequently seen ogling Jackline (Meena). Among these two mischievous characters, David seems to have a soft corner for the young woman.

Mestri Motes (John D’Silva), who arrives to train David and Santan in music, then enters the scene.

Watch what actually transpires between the four characters over time and space. The outcome of their encounters and conversations is effectively portrayed in the second half of the play.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Alongside the main acts, biblical scenes are also presented, inviting viewers to reflect on key stories from the Bible, such as Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus, the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the story of Moses, and the Good Samaritan.

The casting of artistes on stage deserves appreciation, as each performer delivers a splendid performance in their respective role. Chitra, as Sr Lisha, is particularly praiseworthy — natural in both her acting and dialogue delivery.

Normandez, as the villain, is highly professional in both his acting and dialogue delivery. Chitra and Normandez are supported by comedian Neto, David, Meena and John D’Silva.

Fr Warren, George Gonsalves as the father, and Francio, Molifa, and Melvisha as his children all make brief but impactful appearances on stage.

Elvis Mascarenhas and Blyton, playing the CBI officer and police officer respectively, also make spontaneous entrances, yet they command the stage with authority.

For some rib-tickling comedy, comedians Neto, David, John D’Silva, and Meena are hilarious and natural in their performances.

Elvis Mascarenhas takes the stage for the opening song and delivers it in style. There are solos by George Gonsalves, Cielda Pereira, Melvisha, and Grezello.

One song, performed by Asencia and Melvisha, and another on obituaries seen in the dailies, featuring comedian Neto, Meena and David are highly entertaining. The latter even receives an encore from the audience.

The concluding solo, Alleluia, by Cielda Pereira, is equally impressive, drawing a strong response from the audience from start to finish.

The live band led by Lenoy Gomendes and his musical troupe — including Cely (jazz piano), Crusandio (bass), and Kassel (drums) is very appealing.

The stage sets, along with the sound and lighting, have been designed by Jerson Fernandes, who truly deserves applause for handling the challenging and meticulous task during the show.