Hyderabad’s cultural landscape is set to be enriched by a unique theatrical experience as ‘The Wisest Fool on Earth,’ an absurdist monologue, graces the city stage. The monologue, penned by the renowned R Raj Rao, will be performed by the talented Feroze MNA of the Sifar theatre group, who not only enacts the piece but also directs it. This compelling narrative will take its audience on a journey through the life of a gay man confined to a bathroom, with his solitary voice echoing through a small window. The Hindi performance, interspersed with English, promises not only to entertain but also to invoke deep reflection on the marginalization faced by individuals often disregarded by mainstream society.
Feroze’s one-man show is a 60-minute interactive engagement with its audience. Initially debuted in 2012 as a reading, it has since evolved into a fully staged production. In fact, the monologue, following its successful introduction to the acting world, was later accompanied by a reading of its sequel, ‘Vanaprastha Ashram’ by the same author. Previously performed in 2013 and 2017 at the intimate venue of Lamakaan, and more recently in March of this year, the monologue has now made its way back to Hyderabad, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in Rao’s masterful storytelling.
Feroze, speaking about the upcoming performance, emphasizes the entertainment factor while not shying away from its impactful social commentary. The duality of the performance offers a potent mixture of humor and social insight, aiming at rendering visible the lives of those on society’s fringes. He notes, “It’s an entertaining performance but will also reflect on issues faced by people ignored/neglected by mainstream society.”
Monologues are often seen as daunting endeavors, as they place the onus of captivating an audience on a lone actor. However, Feroze dismisses this notion, adhering to the belief that audience engagement is key to dispelling any intimidation. He shares his strategy, stating, “Monologues aren’t intimidating when you engage the audience. ‘The Wisest Fool on Earth’ is an interactive performance, and the audience participation will only take the performance forward.” His past productions have been met with enthusiasm, suggesting that this most recent staging will follow suit, resonating powerfully with its viewers.
Creating a stage presence that maintains the undivided attention of viewers is no easy task, yet Feroze has managed to accomplish this through a careful balance of humour, audience engagement, and pertinent social issues. His expertise in drawing the audience into the world of the character is commendable. Each staging becomes a dialogue rather than a monologue, as the audience is not merely a passive spectator but an active participant in the narrative’s unfolding.
As ‘The Wisest Fool on Earth’ prepares to present itself at Lamakaan on April 7, from 8 pm onwards, art aficionados and social explorers alike are welcomed to this thought-provoking experience. Those interested in witnessing this convergence of art and social commentary can acquire donor passes for ₹200 available at bookmyshow.com.
This weekend, Hyderabad’s theatre-going crowd has much to look forward to as the Sifar theatre group’s portrayal of ‘The Wisest Fool on Earth’ promises to be a reflection of society’s nuances, an absurdist foray into the human condition, and a celebration of theatrical expression. As the lights dim and the actor takes the stage, the audience is sure to embark on an unforgettable journey through this intimate and engaging performance.
