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Sunday, April 29, 2012

CHALO CINEMA 5

(Kajal Bagwandeen is one of the stars of the show)

Chalo Cinema 5 is the new instalment in the Bollywood stage extravaganza series aptly named Chalo Cinema. The latest production comes at a time when Indian Cinema prepares to celebrate 100years. The show combines dance and drama with highlights of the film industry presented on stage.

The show revolves around the life of a film director who is at the crossroads of his life. His last film was a flop which leaves him totally disheartened and dejected. His friends rally around and try to motivate him to come up with new ideas to make a breakthrough in the industry. They suggest that he looks at all aspects that have worked in Indian Cinema in the past.

Through a nostalgic journey of audio visuals and dance, the show traces the entertaining highlights of Indian Cinema with scenes from famous films and dances to some of their most memorable music. The enactment of early day romance with the leading couples of the era will also add an interesting angle to the show.

Audiences follow the action as it travels the world with visuals of Bollywood’s favourite locations and popular songs are used to choreograph vibrant dances against these backdrops. Expect a visual feast of colourful costumes, fine choreography and creative lighting.

Chalo Cinema is a showcase for the Nateshwar Dance Company and its troupe of 25 dancers working under leading Mumbai-based choreographer Shampa Sonthalia. She has worked on television series Jhalak Dika Laga on Sony TV and has choreographed numerous music videos and stage productions in India and abroad.

Nateshwar Dance Company’s principal dancers are Kajal Bagwandeen, Varsha Sharma, Evashnee Pillay, Iqram Rahim and Samantha Misra supported by actors Afzal Khan and Rahul Brijnath. The show is directed by Rakesh and Smeetha Maharaj designed by Rakesh Maharaj with sets by Erek Karamon and lighting by Dylan Heaton and Richard Parker.

Chalo Cinema 5 is presented by Epic Entertainment and will be staged in the Playhouse Drama from May 11 to 20 with shows at 19h30 Tuesday to Saturday with extra matinee shows at 15h00 on Saturday and Sunday. The production moves on to the Lyric Theatre and Gold Reef City for a short run from June 15 to 17. Tickets R125 and R100 booked through Computicket.