Indu Dharmasena is back with yet another rib-tickling play this holiday season. ‘Snow Knight and the Seven Chicks’, is a parody of popular fairy tales woven around the central plot of the play- which is based on the story of King Arthur.
With a generous helping of artful twists and introducing a hint of relevant political issues into his brewing cauldron, Indu’s latest concoction is more complex than his previous fairy tale parodies. The story unfurls as the rightful yet apathetic king of Bangalot, Gunther is urged to reclaim his throne from his step-father, Baron Von Hardnutt. The Baron has been the sit-in king for the past 17 years and is now looking to make himself a permanent ruler by making an amendment to the book of laws.
To reinforce his scheme, the Baron makes an effort to ensure his step-son marries a woman who would sabotage his right to the throne. He organises a contest at which one of the single ladies of Bangalot will be selected as Gunther’s bride; and of course the contest is rigged.
On discovering the Baron’s plans Merlin and the Queen of the Beira Lake, egg Gunther on to repossess his throne from the clutches of the conniving and power-hungry Baron. Trailing along, Gunther isn’t as enthusiastic about ousting his step-father, until true love enters his life.
With the colourful Knights of the Square Table having to choose whether to support Gunther or the Baron, the single ladies adding to the chaos and the determined Baron standing in his way, Gunther has a terrific task of reclaiming his throne and trying not to lose his true love.
Indu says that putting this script together was a treat as he built the story on the popular musical Camelot. He adds that the characters are a colourful bunch but not too far removed from people we may have come across, and so the audience will be able to engage with the play. Koluu who will be playing the Vivian Lady of the Beira Lake, says “Indu always gives me the best characters, so this time I was sure I’d get someone interesting.” Describing his character Koluu shares that Vivian sides with Merlin and helps him push Gunther into reclaiming his throne; she also happens to be one of the single ladies. “Vivian isn’t interested in being Gunther’s bride though” he adds, “she’s too taken up by the handsome Knights of the Square Table.” Adds Koluu, “I enjoy this role because I get to go all out with the costumes and wear a bridal gown.”
Gehan Cooray, playing the role of the Baron, says his character is far from the typical fairy tale villain. “He’s more of a contemporary politician,” Gehan elaborates, “he’s the sort of person everyone can recognise.”
“Even though he’s villainous and unscrupulous he doesn’t try to kill the Snow Knight unlike the witch in Snow White. He takes a circuitous, non-lethal approach.” “For some reason a lot of the roles I’ve played are of the villains. I really like playing the Baron because he isn’t too fantastical.”
While the play will be dominated by the crown-prince, Baron and the knights, the single ladies will have their moment as they treat the audience to a dance routine to the Single Ladies song by Beyoncé. Choreographed by Sanwada Dharmasena, who will also be playing the role of one of the seven chicks, the dance routine is certain to make the play that much more fun.
The Knights of the Square Table include, Rigalot, Digalot, Prancealot and Dancealot to name a few. Rigalot as his name suggests is a mischievous knight who sides with the Baron helping him rig the competition. Sir Digalot is skilled in sleuthing and keeps Gunther up to date on the Baron’s plans.
The cast comprises several actors who’ve been a part of previous productions by Indu.
They include Krys Sosa, Michelle Herft, Abbasalli Rozais, Gehan Cooray, Wasaam Ismail, George Cooke, Dilshan Perera, Jeeves, Jayan, Saskia Vallendar, Ruwendi Wakwella and others. While some of the actors were chosen for the roles, some of the roles were also tailored made for the actors. One such was Angela Seneviratne, who was to play the role of the Queen but is regrettably unable to take up the role due to work commitments. The role however has been filled and the play is shaped to enthral the audience.
You can catch the rip-roaring performance of ‘Snow Knight and the Seven Chicks’ at the Lionel Wendt Theatre on December 10, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at Rs. 1500, 1000, 600 and 350 (balcony). The show on December 11 is presented by the Rotary Club Regal and the proceeds are in aid of their community service project. |
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