 at a workshop by artist John Baby (left) at the art room of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale in December.jpg.image.160.84.jpg)
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Human relationships are by-far the most complex of all of nature's innovations. While on the one hand we often preach open-mindedness, on the other we resort to speaking the truth, but not the whole truth. The consequence; broken hearts, misunderstanding and of course a lot of confusions. In the dire desire to resolve the issues at the earliest one seeks helps from many corners including psychiatrists and spiritual gurus. But in the end, the best solution is something so simple yet rather difficult to do when the mind is not at ease. Communication , or merely talking to one-another.
Chennai based theatre group Boardwalkers depicted the several complexities of human relationships through two short comedy plays on Friday at the Mammen Mappillai Hall in Kottayam.
A scene from the play 'A need for Brussel Sprouts' by Chennai-based theatre group Boardwalkers. Photo: Gitanjali DiwakarThe first play - A need for Brussel Sprouts depicts the lives of a struggling actor and an uptight policewoman. Leon, is an actor who seems to be yearning for the 'break' he deserves as an actor and strives day and night to perfect his roles in TV commercials. One night, as he was rehearsing, a policewoman knocks at the door of his apartment and jots down his details on a summons slip. However, as they begin talking, the tables turnover and the story becomes rather interesting.
A scene from the play 'A need for Brussel Sprouts.'
A need for less expertise was yet another play showcasing the troubled married life of Guss and Edie. After over nine years of marriage, Edie appears to be depressed about the lack of affection and love shared between her and Guss. In a desperate attempt to make things better she resorts to a unique form of therapy – a tape that describes various exercises aimed at strengthening bonds between couples. Absolutely uninterested, Guss loses his temper and the two of them begin arguing over the exercises suggested. As the conversation continues, both of them learn to talk about their problems and eventually workout their issues.
A scene from the play 'A need for less expertise' by Chennai-based theatre group Boardwalkers. Photo: Gitanjali DiwakarThe plays were directed by Michael Muthu and scripted by Murray Schisgal. Presented in a most comical manner, the play had the audience in-splits. However, the cheers were louder for the second play. While 'A need for Brussel Sprouts' was well appreciated for its concept and delivery, 'A need for less expertise' was superlative in terms of spontaneity and quick witted dialogues.
A scene from the play 'A need for less expertise'
The conversations that spoke of ego, domestic violence, deception and unfair play in the first play had a serious tone. This had indeed drifted away from the 'comedy' aspect of the play for brief moments. Also, there seemed to be a bit too much talk.
A scene from the play 'A need for Brussel Sprouts' by Chennai-based theatre group Boardwalkers. Photo: Gitanjali DiwakarThe tale of Edie and Guss on the other hand was sheer entertainment. The scenes of Edie fussing around and of her conversations with numerous therapists, while funny, were delivered in a most believable manner.
The dialogues of both plays were simple and did reach out to all those present in the audience.
A scene from the play 'A need for less expertise' by Chennai-based theatre group Boardwalkers. Photo: Gitanjali DiwakarOne would agree that it takes a great mind to make people laugh out loud. Then again, comedy can be as effective if not more with the regards to several grave topics. All in all, the plays were insightful. One could say that they were instrumental in reminding us of the most essential element of any relationship – communication.
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