Artists during rehearsal | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
This weekend, one of Jandhyala’s best works is being staged in Telugu.middle class tunes, directed By Rohit Raj Akula of Dharmi Theatre Academy. Set against the backdrop of family dynamics and financial aspirations, the play is based on Jandhyala’s play Middle Star Speed Mandhasam Written in the 80s, the play features the antics of three ambitious sons-in-law vying for their retired father-in-law’s provident fund. Interestingly, Rohith, who acted in the play while pursuing his postgraduate studies in Theatre Arts from Osmania University, says, “The blend of sharp wit and relatable humour that captures the essence of middle-class aspirations and greed makes it a delightful viewing. This college production, directed by Ram Mohan Holagundi in 2017, is now being staged at the Nishumbita School of Drama run by him.”
to generate humour
The story revolves around a couple – Nataraj, a retired government employee, and his wife Parvathi, who are tenants in the house of Bhairava Murthy, a foodie who constantly interferes in their lives. While the couple eagerly awaits Nataraj’s provident fund settlement, their hopes are dashed when they receive a postcard informing them of the arrival of their three sons-in-law. They have their eyes set on the settlement amount. Rohit says, “The scenes get funny when the sons-in-law with quirky features visit their in-laws’ house and also meet Bhairava Murthy. Their dialogues and body language create humour.”
Comic Timing
Director Rohit Raj (black t-shirt) with the cast | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Considered a master of comedy, Jandhyala’s writing style was unmatched in Telugu cinema. “Telugu audiences don’t know much about Jandhyala, as he is a playwright and has written some great plays. I was instantly drawn to him.” Natakam When I found this in Nizam College library; it depicts humour in the Navrasas ((Comedy Rasam) It is challenging. Spontaneity, body language and facial expressions need to be perfectly coordinated to bring laughter.”
The evenings are filled with laughter in the open air auditorium thanks to the rehearsals that have been going on for the past 27 days at Lalitha Kala Thoranam in Nampally. “It is not easy to bring Jandhyala’s humour to the stage. The dialogues may seem simple, but acting them out is a time-consuming job. The actors have to mold themselves, develop body language and express themselves through gestures and facial expressions,” he says. “The cast has a lot of fun during this creative process. The production also includes 12 song segments, short tracks from films will also be played. The team found it very difficult to control their laughter; I hope the audience too enjoys this fun ride,” he adds.
Dharmi Theatre Academy will stage Middle Class Melodies at Nishumbita School of Drama, Begumpet on June 29; Tickets: ₹ 100 at bookmyshow.com
