36th TIATR FESTIVAL ATTRACTS A RECORD NUMBER OF 21 ENTRIES

A record 21 entries is expected to throw up a keen contest among tiatr groups at the 36th tiatr competition organized by Kala Academy in the city from September 21 to October 27.

Konkani Tiatr in progress (Goa)

The competition attracted 21 entries after it was announced, as compared to the 14 groups that participated last year. "But two groups withdrew within the permitted time," Pandurang Phaldesai, member secretary, Kala Academy (KA) said. Initially, there was an enthusiastic response to the competition and around 20 groups were to participate, but at one stage, the number even reduced to six groups.

In days of yore, tiatrs were held by amateurs on every festive or special occasion in villages. "As per the rules a minimum of six entries are required to hold the competition," he added.

As in the past, the competition is dominated by theatre groups from Bardez and Tiswadi talukas, especially St Cruz, Divar and Taleigao. Past prize winners include Kala Mogi, Candolim, Britona dramatic academy, Serula art and culture academy comprising actors from Salvador do Mundo, Pomburpa, Socorro and Penha de Franca. Although most professional tiatr groups are from Salcete, this year there are no entries from the coastal taluka.

A directorstated that the three best tiatrs from the competition should be provided automatic entry into the 'popular tiatr competition' organized by the Tiatr Academy. "There is hardly any incentive for those participating in the Kala Academy competition besides the prize money," he said.

Pointing out to production costs which include sets, band charges, lighting, etc the director said, "The Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG) should lend a helping hand to groups participating in KA competition to cope with the expenditure as the quality is better here."

TAG's popular tiatr competition assures a sum of ` 20,000 plus 75% gate receipts and the prize money. The qualifying mark is a minimum of 20 shows by the professional troupe to be considered for the competition.

While actors perform strictly in one troupe, the same may not be said about bands, sources said. "There is also a shortage of good actors, especially female ones, with so many troupes participating," a source said.

Some tiatr groups are not happy about the staggering schedule of the tiatr competition as it will run for about 40 days. "This competition is like the world cup of tiatr. You cannot have the world cup with many breaks. There should be no gap between each show." an actor said.

However, Phaldesai said that the bookings by professional tiatrists have to be taken into account. "The bookings for weekend shows have been done by professional groups," he explained.

Some tiatr enthusiasts have requested KA authorities to hold some shows in Margao and Vasco. However, Phaldesai said that performing groups themselves prefer Panaji as the venue as KA has suitable facilities for the performing arts.

The curtains will rise at the 36th tiatr competition for Salvador Fernandes' presentation 'Montri', followed by Rosario Fernandes' tiatr 'Faleam Konnem Poilam' on September 22. On September 27, Joaquim D'Mello will stage his tiatr titled 'Besaum', followed by Joaquim Fernandes' 'Tuji Vokol Mhoji Bail' on September 28.

On September 29, Tomazinho Cardozo will present his tiatr 'Kal ani Aiz', followed by Mathew Fernandes' 'Bondkonn' on October 4. Cyril Almeida will stage his tiatr 'Soimbhacho Khell ani Patkiancho Mell' on October 5, followed by the tiatr "Goykaramcher Dustt Porinam' by Joaquim Faleiro on October 7. On October 8, Christopher Menezes will stage his tiatr 'Thembe', followed by Derrick D'Mello's 'Vadoll' on October 11.

Peter Vaz will stage his tiatr 'Kalliz Dukoilem' on October 12, followed by the tiatr 'Morosor' by Salvador Alfonso on October 13. 'Matiechi Girestkai' by Jose Fernandes will be staged on October 14, followed by Avito Fernandes' tiatr 'Korat Ti Vatt' on October 18. Joaquim Dias will present his tiatr 'Moronn' on October 19, followed by Alfred Fernandes' tiatr 'Pacharem' on October 20. Carmen Vas' tiatr "Kantteamcho Turo' will be staged on October 21, followed by Conceicao Fernandes' 'Kusvo' on October 22.

On October 25, Augie D'Mello will present his tiatr 'Udorgot', followed by the tiatr 'Tuka' by Franmel Fernandes on October 26. Eusico Fernandes will stage his tiatr 'Don Vantte' on October 27, the concluding day of the competition.