Some things stand the test of time, and Faraz Khan’s adaptation of Dario Fo’s “The Open Couple” is one of them. Originally brought to life on the Hyderabad stage in 2014, the play is making a much-anticipated return after a seven-year hiatus. This theatrical delight features seasoned theatre personality Vaishali Bisht reprising her role as the protagonist, Antonia. In its inaugural run, Anuj Gurwara portrayed the ‘Man’, bringing unique flavor to the production. The revived version, set to grace the stage this weekend, includes Vaishali alongside newcomer Rohan Joshi.
“We were missing the laughter,” Faraz Khan said, explaining the decision to breathe new life into the play after such a long break. The Italian play, authored by Dario Fo and his wife, Franca Rame, and translated into English by Stuart Hood, delves into the intricate and often humorous facets of modern-day relationships. The satirical narrative pokes fun at the institution of marriage, presenting it through the lens of open relationships and the chaos they can entail.
The idea to revive the play germinated when Faraz Khan’s theatre company, La Compagnie Dramatique, was chosen for Manch—a Bangalore-based initiative by the Bhasha Centre. This platform grants production companies the opportunity to stage approximately 25 performances of a play annually, offering a comprehensive understanding of both the artistic dynamics and the economic viability. With this new opportunity, the timing was just right to bring “The Open Couple” back to the stage.
In addition to Anuj Gurwara, Bhavin Patel also donned the ‘Man’ role for a few performances in 2017. “We knew the production company would be busy with performances every six weeks at different venues, so we double-cast,” Faraz explained. While Vaishali retains her role as Antonia, Gaurav Sajjanhar—who had previously performed in shows staged in Mumbai—and Rohan Joshi will alternate as the Man. Reflecting on the passage of time, Faraz remarked, “I was in my 30s when I first directed the play in 2014, and now in my 40s, it’s still humorous. The play was a reminder that none of the joy has left.”
The 2014 production took a heavy dose of inspiration from Commedia dell’arte, a 15th-century Italian theatrical form where scenes often resemble a ‘controlled accident’—a blend of chaos and design.
. However, the play has since evolved, and the current rendition feels more like a meticulously choreographed piece, blending physical comedy with incisive dialogue. Faraz emphasized that the play has matured without losing its original essence, offering a more polished yet equally entertaining experience.
Rohan Joshi, new to the theater world, shared his excitement about joining the cast. “Every day is a new learning experience for me,” the comedian said. “One gets to learn new rules as the medium completely changes. I am ecstatic to be on board and having a great amount of fun.” Despite his fresh entry into theatre, Rohan’s enthusiasm and eagerness to learn have quickly made him an integral part of the team.
Vaishali Bisht, who has been the bedrock of the production from the beginning, continues to shine in her role as Antonia. Her ability to balance the comedic and tragic elements of the character offers a nuanced portrayal that resonates deeply with audiences. The chemistry between her and her co-actors forms the backbone of the play, ensuring that the laughter and the poignant moments are equally impactful.
This revival is more than just a reenactment of past success; it’s an opportunity to re-engage with themes that remain relevant and thought-provoking. As “The Open Couple” returns to the Hyderabad stage, it invites audiences to explore the complexities of relationships through laughter and introspection. The production promises an evening of engaging theatre that challenges social norms while offering a hearty dose of humor.
Bhasha Centre will present “The Open Couple” at Rangbhoomi Spaces & Events on September 26, 27, and 28, with performances starting at 8 pm. Tickets are available on insider.in, offering theater lovers the chance to experience this much-awaited revival. As Hyderabad gears up for this theatrical treat, it marks a celebration of timeless storytelling and the enduring power of laughter.
