(Above: Director
Verne Rowin Munsamy in red jacket with cast members)
Bombay Chasers 2: The return of Krishna and Rhada coming to the DUT Courtyard Theatre from September 4 to 7, 2023, is written, directed and choreographed by Verne Rowin Munsamy. Assistant Director Qiniso Makhoba
Munsamy talks about the production:
“I grew
up fuelling my mind with Bollywood movies. I remember watching these movies
with my Aiya, and being filled with enthusiasm, romance, love and hatred for
villains, without even understanding a word that was said. That is the power of
Bollywood, to be able to transport you into an escapist work with stories that
are bolder than any ordinary imaginary mind to conceive. The larger-than-life
action unfolds in dramatic fashion and depicts a colourful, magical, dance-filled
world that captivates the viewer. I wanted to share this world with my students
in order to show Bollywood isn't just for the screen and further that it was
attractive and appealing to more than just an Indian audience or Indian
diaspora.
“The result was positive in many ways. Not only have the students embraced this genre of theatre but they have fallen in love, as I did, with this outlandish style of performance but also with the dances, music, attire and culture. So, this year we present our third Bollywood-styled theatre. Each year we have grown in style, numbers and dances to celebrate the joy that emanates from Bollywood.
“In writing the play, I made this a sequel to the popular Bombay Chasers that was first staged at Sibaya's isiZulu Theatre in 2019 and then again at Courtyard Theatre in 2022. This story includes the religious teachings of Lord Krishna and his love story with Rhada, told through a modern-day lens and unfolds through the love story of Keshav, Rhadana and Krishnan. The story unfolds in melodramatic fashion telling the turbulent love relationship of Keshav and Rhadana and the quest of a dance troupe to dance at the international arena of The World's Got Talent. Along the way, we overcome the evil intentions of Khantha and learn about Lord Krishna and Radha and the battle to restore good and triumph over evil.
“The dances, in true Bollywood style are placed at emotional peaks, help the story unfold and provide a platform for the actors to showcase their dance skills in a truly South African way. The dance styles range from Classical Indian dance to local Gom and contemporary dance techniques. There are 12 dances in total and these blend Bollywood dance and music with a uniquely South African flare to entice any audience. This physical energy is matching in the direction of the texts with a physically-demanding aesthetic creating humour through the farcical nature. The melodrama is explored through the physical shapes and larger than life characters and acting style. It is a joy and a burden sometimes to direct a cast of over 40 people and sometimes the task at hand feels like it will never be achieved but through hard work and sacrifice, the end goal is always attained, all thanks to the hard work and dedication of the students.”
Bombay Chasers 2 runs from September 4 to 7, 2023, at the Courtyard Theatre (DUT). For bookings contact: Bawinile Nomcebo Mngadi on email: BawinileM1@dut.ac.za
The Courtyard Theatre is situated at the Durban University of Technology, 1 Steve Biko Road, Musgrave, Durban.
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