Sharjah: The most-awaited Konkani Theatre Festival presented by SMMKC, Sharjah at Sharjah Worship Centre enthralled the drama lovers of UAE, on Sunday, December. Plays like ‘Zhuz’ and ‘Anvkar Mestri’ received an overwhelming response from the audience.
The teams, Padua Ranga Adhyayana Kendra and Astitva, Mangaluru presented the dramas, which were a blend of traditional theatre style and modern stage art.
‘Zhuz’ has been written by Fr Alwyn Serrao, directed by Christy Ninasam and Clanwin Fernandes and presented by Padua Ranga Adhyayana Kendra, Mangaluru, and ‘Anvkar Mestri’ has been written by Amar Cha Fra D’Costa, directed by Denis Monteiro, and presented by Astitva, Mangaluru.
The fest was inaugurated in a rather different style by pouring rice into a traditional vessel called “Kalshi” by guests. Fr. Varghese Chempoly – parish priest of St Michael Catholic Church, Sharjah, Fr Stephan Lewis – Spiritual director of SMMKC, Fr Maxim Pinto – former spiritual director of SMMKC, Joseph Mathias, Chairman of Merit Freight Shipping and other dignitaries inaugurated the show.
The event featured UAE’s well-known singers, Melwyn Antony D’Souza, and Navee Magundi. The event also featured Arushi, Disha and Sarah, students of well-known Bharatanatyam teacher Nritya Ratna Rohini Anant.
Artistes like Christopher Neenasam, Clanwin Kalakul, Rohan Adkabare, Ashel D’Silva, Zeena Brags, Anstin Machado, Christon and Jackson were also part of the event.
SMMKC honoured the sponsors and artistes with mementoes. Spiritual director of SMMKC Fr Stephan welcomed the guests. Roshan D’Silva compered the program. Godwin D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks.
By Kiran Nirkan
