Some things stand the test of time, and Faraz Khan’s adaptation of Dario Fo’s “The Open Couple” is one such enduring creation. Taking theatergoers by storm once again, this satirical exploration of marriage and relationships returns to the Hyderabad stage this weekend after a seven-year hiatus. In a stellar performance, theater personality Vaishali Bisht reprises her role as Antonia, while Rohan Joshi steps into the shoes of the ‘Man,’ bringing fresh energy to a cherished classic.
“We were missing the laughter,” confesses Faraz Khan when asked about the reasons behind the revival of the play. The original Italian play, penned by Dario Fo and his wife, Franca Rame, and later translated into English by Stuart Hood, delves deeply into the intricate and often absurd complexities of modern-day relationships.
The original run of the play in 2014 featured Anuj Gurwara as the ‘Man.’ Bhavin Patel also took on the role for a few performances in 2017, showcasing the versatility and dynamic nature of the production. Now, seven years later, the play sees a revamped cast with Vaishali Bisht holding onto her iconic role as Antonia, while Gaurav Sajjanhar (a seasoned performer from the Mumbai renditions) and newcomer Rohan Joshi share the stage as the ‘Man.’
Faraz Khan recounts his journey with “The Open Couple,” stating, “I was in my 30s when I directed the play in 2014, and now in my 40s, it’s still as humorous and relevant as ever.” With a laugh, he adds, “The play served as a delightful reminder that the joy in these characters and their stories remains untouched by time.”
The theatrical production staged in 2014 leaned heavily towards the stylings of Commedia dell’Arte—a 15th-century Italian theatrical form characterized by masked types and improvisation, offering a semblance of controlled chaos. However, over the years, the play has evolved significantly. The current rendition feels more polished, with scenes that evoke a sense of choreographed precision while retaining the spontaneous humor that original audiences adored.
The task of breathing new life into the ‘Man’ character falls squarely on the shoulders of Rohan Joshi, who is relatively new to the world of theater.
. “Every day is a new learning experience for me,” says Rohan, a comedian by trade. “The rules of the medium are different from what I am used to, but I am thrilled to be part of this incredible production and am thoroughly enjoying the process.”
The revival of “The Open Couple,” presented by the Bhasha Centre through their Manch initiative, promises to be a theatrical feast. The Bengaluru-based Bhasha Centre, known for supporting multiple shows of a single play to gauge both performance and economic viability, will facilitate La Compagnie Dramatique in staging nearly 25 shows throughout the year. This initiative allows audiences across diverse locations to experience the highs and lows of the production, ensuring the play reaches a wider audience and sustains its momentum.
Faraz Khan speaks highly of the Manch initiative, noting that scheduling consistent performances every six weeks requires an adaptable cast. This logistical challenge was met by double casting the ‘Man’ role, ensuring the production could maintain a rigorous performance schedule without compromising on quality.
For those who have followed the play since its initial Hyderabad run in 2014, as well as for newcomers to the story, the latest iteration of “The Open Couple” offers a blend of nostalgia and novelty. Its themes are universal: the challenges and absurdities of modern relationships are as relevant today as they were seven years ago.
Packed with humor and poignant insights, the current performances, staged at Rangbhoomi Spaces & Events on September 26, 27, and 28, promise to deliver a memorable theater experience. Tickets are available at insider.in, ensuring that old fans and new spectators alike will have the opportunity to witness the return of a timeless classic.
As Faraz Khan and his talented troupe take to the stage once again, the laughter that has been sorely missed promises to echo through the halls, reaffirming that some stories are truly timeless. This revival not only brings back cherished memories but also creates new ones, making this a must-see event for any theater enthusiast.
Published – September 25, 2024, 04:32 pm IST
The Hindu MetroPlus
/ Hyderabad
/ arts, culture, and entertainment
