Some things stand the test of time, and Faraz Khan’s adaptation of Dario Fo’s ‘The Open Couple’ is one such treasure that has resurfaced after an extended hiatus. With theatre personality Vaishali Bisht brilliantly reprising the role of Antonia, and an exciting new addition of Rohan Joshi as the ‘Man,’ the play is set to captivate audiences in Hyderabad once again this weekend. The play originally debuted in the city in 2014, drawing audiences with its witty and satirical exploration of marriage and relationships.
“We were missing the laughter,” Faraz Khan candidly exclaims while discussing the motivation behind reviving the iconic play after seven years. The play, penned by the Italian duo Dario Fo and Franca Rame and translated into English by Stuart Hood, delves into the intricate complexities of modern-day relationships, delivering its message through humor and satire.
Originally staged at the Shilpakala Vedika in Hyderabad, the production featured Vaishali Bisht as Antonia and Anuj Gurwara playing the ‘Man.’ This time around, Rohan Joshi steps into the shoes of the male protagonist, bringing a fresh dynamic to the roles. Faraz Khan’s theatre company, La Compagnie Dramatique, made this revival possible, especially after being selected for Manch—a novel Bengaluru-based initiative by the Bhasha Centre designed to support production companies in staging consistent shows of a play over the course of a year. This opportunity provides an invaluable experience in understanding both performance and the economic aspects of theatre.
Discussing the unique double casting strategy, Faraz explains, “Back in 2017, we brought Bhavin Patel in to play the ‘Man’ for a few shows, alongside Anuj. We anticipated the busy schedules, with performances lined up in different locales every six weeks, so we had to ensure continuity by casting two actors.” This time, while Vaishali’s portrayal of Antonia remains consistent, the male role will be alternated between Gaurav Sajjanhar, who had previous stints in Mumbai, and the promising newcomer Rohan Joshi.
Faraz Khan reflects on his journey with the play, “I was in my 30s when I directed the initial production in 2014. Now, in my 40s, the play’s humor still resonates with me. It’s a joyful experience to realize that none of the joy has vanished.
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The 2014 production of ‘The Open Couple’ leant heavily towards the traditional Italian theatrical form of Commedia dell’arte, characterized by seemingly chaotic yet masterfully designed scenes—a “controlled accident,” so to speak. Since then, the play has evolved, presenting more choreographed acts that enhance the narrative’s delivery.
One of the significant highlights of this production is the involvement of Rohan Joshi, a comedian diving into the realm of theatre. Reflecting on his new journey, Joshi shares, “Every day brings a new learning experience. The transition from comedy to theatre has been incredibly enriching as the medium demands a different set of skills and rules. I’m thrilled to be part of this magnificent play and have been having an incredible amount of fun.”
This weekend offers theatre enthusiasts in Hyderabad an unmissable opportunity. The Bhasha Centre proudly presents ‘The Open Couple’ by Dario Fo, an event hosted at Rangbhoomi Spaces & Events on September 26, 27, and 28 at 8 PM. Tickets are available on insider.in.
As the curtain rises once more on this beloved play, audiences can expect an engaging combination of humor, satire, and profound reflections on human relationships. The revival reflects the timeless nature of Dario Fo’s work and Faraz Khan’s dedication to bringing compelling theatre to life. This rendition of ‘The Open Couple’ stands not just as a performance but as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in exploring the human condition. Mark your calendars and prepare for a delightful evening that encapsulates the essence of laughter, thought, and theater.
