Lenten shows during the season of grace have stepped into the tiatr field in recent years, thus providing food for the soul to the Catholic community during the 40 days of fasting and abstinence.
For several years, tiatrs were witness only during three seasons, namely Easter, monsoons and October releases.
But of late, there have been tiatrs, labelled as ‘Lenten shows’, attempting to attract the masses for viewing and entertainment.
Whether those 'Lenten' shows are worthy of being watched or not, enabling the audience to reflect and mend their sinful ways is a big question mark.
That apart, a handful of Lenten shows are released every year during this season by some tiatr directors, depending on the availability of artistes and musicians during the season.
WHAT IS A LENTEN TIATR?
In the past, during this penitential season, musicals, operas and operettas were quite common and helped the faithful to get into the spirit of contemplation and repentance.
Priests inclined towards music were mostly involved in those operas, and with the help of Biblical scenes, they would lead the people into prayer.
Velim-based diocesan priest, the late Fr Nevel Gracias would bring out with Lenten shows, annually, and most of his shows were based on pastoral themes.
The entire plot revolved around the pastoral theme for the year, chosen by the archbishop of Goa and Daman, Rev Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao.
The songs and comedy were inter-woven around the pastoral theme, and apart from the entertainment in small doses, the Catholic community was inspired to reflect on religion and the teachings of Christ.
Those Lenten shows by priests served as a tool to contemplate and renew one’s lifestyle.
Lately, the involvement of priests in Lenten shows has taken a backseat, and prompted many other tiatr directors to come up with productions not at all suitable to the season of Lent.
And, instead of helping the laity view, reflect and change their lives, some of today’s Lenten shows are commercialised.
