The revival of Amadeus by Theater Lab received considerable anticipation, as its first successful production in 1981 is still remembered. Considered one of the best modern plays, Amadeus deserves a return to the stage from time to time. And, producer Arjun Sajnani’s meticulous production values ​​did it justice when it was staged last weekend.
Peter Schaeffer’s play skillfully weaves existential concerns and religious crises into a brilliant screenplay. The essence and ironic strength of the play is Salieri’s position – mediocrity is his tragic fate, but it enabled him to recognize the unprecedented genius of Mozart.
High drama arises from Salieri’s conflict with God. ‘Music is God’s art’, and the young Salieri makes a deal with God, praying that He would give him the gift of musical talent in exchange for a life of virtue and God’s glory.
Enter Mozart, and that equation is shaken. Salieri cursed his most revered God for deciding to give that gift to this crude, infantile clown, ‘Amadeus’ – God’s favorite.
View of the court watching Mozart’s opera. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Seeking revenge on the God who had failed him, Salieri attempts to destroy Mozart’s reputation and career, and even poisons him. Ultimately, the dejected, defeated Salieri resolved to end his life; But is unable to take it forward.
It is left to the audience to decide who has it worse – Mozart, who was drunk and had his work not recognized; Or the tragic Salieri, who remains ‘the mockery of God for all eternity’. God grants Salieri the fame he desired, but it is an empty recognition of his average, mediocre talent. Ironically, Salieri is the only contemporary of Mozart who recognized his talent. Shortly thereafter, Mozart’s reputation was established, in part due to his widow Constanze, who sold his manuscript music by charging per note.
The creation of Arjun had the same effect as the play’s author had desired. The audience became emotional when the lead characters presented the gist of their roles. Vivek Madan did justice to his excellent portrayal of Salieri – a demanding role that kept him on stage for almost the entire play, offering a range of emotions.
Constanze scolds the frustrated Mozart. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Mozart’s role was showier and more varied – Darius Tsunawala brilliantly portrayed the conflicting characteristics of the eccentric genius, a spontaneity that was aggressive but attractive. The essential exchanges and conflicts between the two lead characters were executed admirably. Susan George played her role brilliantly as Constanze Weber, Mozart’s long-suffering but shrewd wife. However, clarity was, at times, poor. The ‘Venticelli’ often talked very fast in an attempt to become ‘little winds’ blowing with gossip. Characters speaking over the background music were not always audible.
The supporting cast was competent. The light and unassuming appearance of the Shivam wig did not convey the majestic presence of Emperor Joseph II, nor did it capture the silly charm and absurd remarks that caused the false sycophantic laughter of his courtiers. He also did not establish the grand atmosphere of the Viennese court nor the stature of his powerful positions.
Arjun has made good use of technology to enhance his presentations, without affecting the essential action. Clay Kelton and his team created stunning interiors, stunning visuals for the opera house and church, and street scenes. Similarly, Pradeep Belawadi and his technical coordinators ensured that the lighting was in the right places to create the necessary menace for the lurking figure in the nightmare, or to suggest the heavenly realms when Salieri falls into a trance of ecstasy after “hearing” Mozart’s Divine Great Mass in C minor.
Clay Kelton and his team created stunning visuals on stage. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
when he imagined amadeusAn avid Mozart fan and opera lover, Schaeffer chose the music carefully, saturating our visual and auditory senses while simultaneously engaging our mental understanding of the action. Evelyn Kelton’s sound team combined the musical element with sensitivity and perfect coordination.
published – February 27, 2026 02:24 PM IST