All-women Tamil theatre troupe to stage 10th production

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Sarvam Nataka Priyas, an amateur all-women Tamil theatre troupe, will be presenting its 10th production, Gajasanakasi, on August 29 in Pallikaranai. Known for its focus on women-centric stories and engaging performances, the troupe has been steadily building a repertoire that combines humour with observations on everyday life.

Gajasanakasi is a comic play revolving around six women and their take on life. Each character brings a distinct perspective and personality to the story. Their interactions lead to several hilarious situations and provide plenty of scope for humour.

The play promises to be an entertaining, light-hearted production that allows the audience to unwind and enjoy an evening of laughter.

‘Gajasanakasi’ is written by R. Kesavan who is well-known in Tamil theatre circles. The music is scored by popular music composer Dakshin. The script is infused with unbridled humour, wit and sarcasm while drawing references from the current social and political scenario in the state and the country. These contemporary references make the play relatable to the audience and adds an element of topical humour to the narrative, said a release.

“I am an avid drama lover and have acted in several plays during my school and college days. Later as a journalist I have watched and reviewed plays staged by amateur and professional players. During the pandemic, when most of us were stuck at homes. I thought drama as a form of art will be a stress-buster not only for the players but also the audience. Since I live in a 203-flat gated community, I shared my thoughts of forming a drama group with my friends. Some of them jumped at the idea and Sarvam Nataka Priyas was born in November 2021,” says B. Vijayalakshmi, founder of Sarvam Nataka Priyas and a senior journalist.

Sarvam Nataka Priyas comprises career women, homemakers and techies who stay in and around Pallikaranai and Velachery. The troupe has staged their plays in Chennai and other cities including at colleges, clubs, gated communities, cultural centres and old age homes. Rehearsing for the play is one big challenge these women face as all of them have different work timings and household chores. Sometimes they rehearse online and meet up after 9 p.m.

Beyond comedy, the drama troupe has experimented with thriller. Konnathu Neethana?, their ninth production, written by Kesavan was a thriller. The whodunit marked a departure from the troupe’s earlier productions and gave the performers an opportunity to explore a more intense and suspense-driven narrative, added the release. The play’s intriguing storyline, coupled with the performances and suspenseful moments, struck a chord with theatre-goers. From humour and satire to mystery and suspense, the all-women ensemble wants to explore varied themes while keeping its performances engaging and accessible to audiences.

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