In a world where art often intersects with politics, a play that dives into the murky waters of ethics, allegiance, and creativity during oppressive eras is creating waves. “Taking Sides,” a riveting theatrical production, has embarked on a journey to Chennai following a successful national run of nearly 50 shows. At its heart is the story of Wilhelm Furtwängler, the eminent conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic, who became a contentious figure during Nazi Germany. Dubbed “Hitler’s favorite conductor,” Furtwängler’s life and choices serve as a compelling backdrop for the play’s central conflict, a post-World War II interrogation by US Army Major Steve Arnold, who previously worked as an insurance investigator.
Director Atul Kumar, who helms the production, believes that the relevance of “Taking Sides” has never been more profound. His connection with the play began several years ago after he encountered a film adaptation by Hungarian filmmaker Istvan Szabo. “I was instantly struck by the resonance of the script. It’s unfortunate but undeniable that our current times have made this narrative deeply pertinent,” Kumar reflects.
Crafted during the COVID-19 pandemic, “Taking Sides” delves into the timeless themes of freedom and the intersection of art and politics under totalitarian regimes. The director raises crucial questions about the maintenance of moral integrity in times of fascism, challenging the audience to ponder, “Where should one draw the line?” Kumar himself finds these questions intensely personal. Known for his flamboyant and animated theatrical style, Kumar acknowledges that this production marks a departure as he experiments with a more classical approach. “This is my first time in 25 years focusing solely on dialogue and debate. We wanted realism, a narrative sparking continuous discourse long after the curtains fall,” he shares.
The play is typically staged in a traverse format, where the audience is seated on both sides of the performance, encouraging a divided perspective. However, this arrangement will not be implemented during its Chennai stop due to venue constraints.
. Nonetheless, Kumar insists on fostering a dichotomy among viewers, encouraging them to leave the theatre oscillating between differing viewpoints about Furtwängler’s true loyalties.
While the script of “Taking Sides” has been carefully edited for duration, it remains true to its original form. Extensive research ensures that historical nuances resonate with today’s audience. Kumar describes the collaborative process, “The cast engaged in heartfelt discussions, thoroughly exploring literary and journalistic sources. This exploration helped us stand on various sides of the argument. No one took a clean stand. The aim was to keep audiences mentally engaged and provoke discussions on themes beyond the auditorium walls.”
The character of Furtwängler, played by Kumar himself, grapples with external judgments regarding his allegiance to Nazi Germany. It’s a narrative that transcends history, asking present-day spectators tough questions about personal convictions amid societal pressures.
The production evolved amid the pandemic’s unprecedented challenges, initially taking shape through virtual rehearsals. Despite these atypical beginnings, both “Taking Sides” and its audience have adapted and matured over time. Kumar observes a shift in public reception, noting that viewers today exhibit greater openness to the play’s provocative content. “We sense a reduced hesitation in expressing the poignant messages embedded in the script,” he notes.
For those eager to witness this thought-provoking exploration of morality and art, “Taking Sides” is scheduled to be performed at Medai, Alwarpet, on October 19 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available for purchase on BookMyShow for ₹499, offering an opportunity to engage with a theatrical production that seamlessly merges the personal and political, history and the present.
