Shakespearean Spectacle: A Comedic Twist with The Leftovers
In the bustling city of Mumbai, a theatrical revolution is brewing. Directed by and starring Aryaman, alongside fellow actors Akshat and Anubhav, this dynamic trio is bringing a fresh take on Shakespeare that promises to entertain, engage, and enlighten audiences in a way never seen before. Inspired by the American touring troupe The Reduced Shakespeare Company, known for their innovative and fast-paced interpretations of classic works, The Leftovers are set to shake up the stage with ‘The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)’.
A Blend of Cultures and Comedy
This high-energy, irreverent comedic parody in Hindi takes Shakespeare’s iconic 39 plays and condenses them into a 90-minute whirlwind of laughter and entertainment. Drawing inspiration from the New Vaudeville style, a theatrical movement that blends traditional comedy with contemporary themes, The Leftovers have crafted a performance that marries the timeless themes of Shakespeare with the vibrant masala of India.
Aryaman, the driving force behind the production, was first captivated by RSC’s ability to condense Shakespeare into a fast, engaging, and hilarious format. His vision of creating an Indian version of this experience led to the adaptation of Hindi translations of Shakespeare’s plays, giving them a unique and fresh twist that is bound to delight audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The goal? To show that Shakespeare is not just for the elite or the intellectual, but for everyone who appreciates the universal themes of love, power, betrayal, and ambition that resonate across cultures and languages.
A Playful Roast with a Heart
While ‘The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)’ may sound like a mere roast of the Bard, it is, in fact, a celebration of his enduring legacy. With just three actors seamlessly transitioning between multiple roles and plays, the performance is a hilarious collage of Shakespearean snippets that will have you laughing, crying, and everything in between. As Anubhav aptly puts it, the play doesn’t treat Shakespeare as a sacred relic but embraces his drama, clichés, and complexity in a way that is both entertaining and enlightening.
The Leftovers, a group of collective artistes who have defied the odds to pursue their passion for theatre, are on a mission to create a space where actors can thrive, grow, and learn from one another. Their journey from Delhi to Mumbai has exposed them to the stark differences in theatre cultures between the two cities, with Delhi’s focus on experimentation and growth contrasting Mumbai’s performance-driven scene. Despite these disparities, the energy and enthusiasm of Mumbai have left a lasting impact on the group, shaping their approach to theatre and performance.
To Be or Not to Be There?
So, should you be there—or not be there? The answer is clear. ‘The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)’ is a must-see theatrical extravaganza that promises to entertain, enlighten, and engage audiences in a way that only The Leftovers can deliver. Join Aryaman, Akshat, and Anubhav on February 22 at Kunba Veda, Andheri, at 9 pm for a night of laughter, love, and Shakespearean shenanigans that will leave you wanting more. Shakespeare may have said, “All the world’s a stage,” but with The Leftovers, the stage is where the world comes alive in all its glory and grandeur.
