The intriguing and thought-provoking play “Taking Sides,” which centers around the complex legacy of Wilhelm Furtwängler, often dubbed Hitler’s favorite conductor, is set to captivate audiences in Chennai. This compelling narrative has already enjoyed an impressive run with nearly fifty performances nationwide. The play intricately delves into the post-World War II interrogation of Furtwängler by Steve Arnold, a U.S. Army Major with a past in insurance investigation, igniting thought-provoking discussions about morality, loyalty, and the enduring complexities of art and politics during repressive regimes.
At the heart of “Taking Sides” lies the dichotomy between Furtwängler’s unwavering commitment to his music and the precarious line he navigates between art and politics. The play’s director, Atul Kumar, passionately believes that staging this narrative is particularly poignant in today’s socio-political climate. Kumar’s initial encounter with the play was through a film adaptation by Hungarian filmmaker István Szabó, which left a lasting impression on him. “It was then that I promised myself that I would someday bring this script to the stage, recognizing its alarming relevance in contemporary times,” Kumar reflects.
The play, conceived during the pandemic, resonates profoundly with themes of freedom and the intricate relationship between art and politics under oppressive conditions. “It challenges the audience to consider how morality is maintained during a fascist regime and where, or even if, one should draw the line,” Kumar elaborates.
The staging of “Taking Sides” also reflects a personal exploration for Kumar, known for his theatrically bold and expressive productions. “I’ve always embraced theatre that is vibrant and larger-than-life, be it comedy or tragedy.
. However, this project provided me an opportunity to venture into more classical theatrical methods, where the focus lies heavily on words and the potency of the arguments,” Kumar explains, adding humorously that this represents a significant shift after 25 years in theatre. Normally presented in a traverse format, designed to foster a divided audience akin to the dichotomy presented in the play, the Chennai performance will adapt to its venue’s restrictions, ensuring the essence of the play is maintained.
Moreover, the play’s script, though condensed for time, remains unaltered in essence, preserving crucial historical references through meticulous research efforts. Kumar emphasizes the collaborative work undertaken by the cast: “We immersed ourselves in scholarly and journalistic material, debating where we each stood on the issues at hand. No one took an unequivocal position; it became clear that the audience should leave caught in a flux of ideas and conversations.”
Portraying the character of Furtwängler, Kumar finds himself at the core of the narrative conflict—whether Furtwängler’s artistic loyalty inadvertently aligned him with Nazi ideologies. “Taking Sides” first took root in the midst of pandemic restrictions, primarily through digital collaboration, marking its journey through unconventional times. Kumar notes the evolution in audience response: “Audiences today are more outspoken and receptive to the play’s themes. We feel emboldened to voice the topics raised.”
For those in Chennai eager to engage with this multi-layered theatrical experience, “Taking Sides” will be performed at Medai, Alwarpet on October 19, at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available through BookMyShow, priced at ₹499. With its provocative narrative and rich exploration of cultural and ethical dilemmas, “Taking Sides” promises to unsettle and inspire reflection long after the curtains fall.
