A new Tamil theatre group experiments with short plays

Like in every other field, innovation keeps happening in theatre as well, but short plays still remain a less explored domain on Tamil stage. However, Theatre Marina is set to change the perspective with its upcoming show at Alliance Française of Madras, Nungambakkam, on May 20, when their four short plays, each lasting for about 15 minutes, will be staged to a ticketed audience. “People have unsuccessfully tried short theatre before. I think, in our case, we have got the mix right. This is the second time we are staging the plays after the première in November last year,” says Harinath of the troupe. 

Of the four plays, Kizhakku Ambalappattu and Puratchi Onguha — have been penned by theatre personality Sri Arun Kumar and the other two — Ammonium Phosphate and Vasal — have been authored by Sujatha. Mahalakshmi and Ashwin have directed two plays each. “Each play has got an interesting twist in the climax. So, people will get to watch four climaxes in less than two hours. Also, we have done something unique about the transition from one play to the next,” says Harinath, who plays a prominent role in Kizhakku Ambalappattu and is also taking care of the marketing of Theatre Marina. Their first production, Undo, has been staged over 25 times in the last two years. 

According to Harinath, the troupe is a healthy mix of veterans and amateur artistes. “Giridharan, one of our mentors, has been into theatre for over 20 years and has worked with legends like K Balachandar. Keerti Mariappan, who is working in an MNC, has been producing our shows. For that matter, almost all the crew members are working in different fields and are united by the common love for theatre,” concludes Harinath. 

The short plays are to be staged on May 20 at Alliance Francaise of Madras from 7 pm.