Some things stand the test of time, and one such timeless piece is Faraz Khan’s adaptation of Dario Fo’s “The Open Couple”. The play, a compelling satire on the complexities of marriage and modern-day relationships, made its impactful debut on Hyderabad’s theater scene in 2014. This adaptation features the talented theatre personality Vaishali Bisht as Antonia and initially had Anuj Gurwara portraying the enigmatic character known simply as the ‘Man.’ Now, seven years later, this acclaimed production is making a much-awaited comeback, with Vaishali reprising her role and Rohan Joshi stepping into the shoes of the ‘Man’.
“We were missing the laughter,” Faraz Khan disclosed when asked about his motivation for reviving the play this year. The original script, penned by the celebrated Italian playwright Dario Fo and his wife Franca Rame, was translated into English by Stuart Hood. Known for its incisive and humorous take on marital discord, the play delves deep into the intricacies and follies of contemporary relationships.
Faraz, who had initially been hesitant about bringing the play back to the stage, found an opportune moment this year with his company, La Compagnie Dramatique. They were selected by the Bengaluru-based Bhasha Centre for their Manch program. This initiative allows a production company to extensively stage a play, thereby gaining crucial insights into its performance and economic viability through nearly 25 shows in a year.
This wasn’t the first time the play’s cast saw changes. Back in 2017, Anuj Gurwara was joined by Bhavin Patel, who played the role of the ‘Man’ for a few shows. “We knew the production company would be busy with performances every six weeks at different places, so we double-cast,” explains Faraz. This thoughtful strategizing ensured that the play continued to entertain audiences while allowing the cast and crew to maintain a high level of performance.
While Vaishali Bisht returns to her original role of Antonia, the character of the ‘Man’ will be reprised by Gaurav Sajjanhar—who previously performed in the play’s Mumbai shows—and newcomer Rohan Joshi. Reflecting on the play’s enduring appeal, Faraz shares, “I was in my 30s when I directed the play in 2014, and now in my 40s, it’s still humorous,” adding with a chuckle, “The play was a reminder that none of the joy has left.”
When the production was first staged in 2014, it drew heavily on the Commedia dell’arte tradition—a 15th-century Italian theatrical form known for its organized chaos and ‘controlled accidents.
.’ However, over the years, the play’s staging has evolved, adopting a more choreographed and refined presentation.
For Rohan Joshi, who is relatively new to the world of theater, this role represents a significant learning opportunity. “Every day is a new learning experience for me,” he shares. “One gets to learn new rules as the medium completely changes. I am excited to be on board and having a lot of fun.”
Audiences can look forward to witnessing this storied production once again as part of the Bhasha Centre’s Manch initiative. The performances will take place at Rangbhoomi Spaces & Events on September 26, 27, and 28 at 8 pm. Tickets are available via insider.in, making this a must-see event for theater aficionados and casual attendees alike.
The significance of such revivals cannot be overstated. They provide an essential platform for exploring timeless themes through the medium of live performance, while also highlighting the dynamic nature of theatrical arts. The show’s enduring humor and relevance speak volumes about its creators’ insightful commentary on human relationships.
The revival of “The Open Couple” is more than just a return to the stage; it’s a celebration of a theatrical tradition that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you’re experiencing this work for the first time or revisiting it, Faraz Khan’s adaptation promises to deliver laughter, introspection, and a touching glimpse into the trials and tribulations of modern marriage.
With the revival of such an important play, Hyderabad’s vibrant theater scene is set to buzz with excitement once again, providing a fresh yet nostalgic experience to audiences who appreciate the timeless art of storytelling. This production is not just a testament to the enduring appeal of Dario Fo’s work but also a beacon of the thriving cultural tapestry of Indian theater.
