Kids worlds latest production 'Little Mermaid' reconfirms it's directors loyalty to a children's theatre which educates and entertains, says Purnima Sharma
Times of India, May, 02
Special effects, sound and lighting, splendid costumes, and of course excellent choreography, creates - a watery world of pure magic. The audience is transported away from the mundane realities, into another world where the mermaid's love for the human prince and the machinations of the octopus `witch' for the throne, is the sole concern. Will the prince kiss the mermaid, or is she destined to return to the sea forever? And of course, the use of very special effects aid this suspension of all disbelief.
Initially, the use of special effects "were discouraged by many who felt we were wasting money," say the directors. But Lushin Dubey and Bubbles Sabharwal stuck to their resolve to make everything "lifelike and real," to provide their audience with real 'magic.' And when Peter Pan (in an earlier production) actually flew, "the surprised gasps from the audience were our reward."
Kidsworld's attempt to combine entertainment with education, brings alive a fantastical world. But "of course, whatever the moral or message, it is offered subtly so as not to be a drag,"informs Sabharwal. Dubey and Sabharwal draw upon their own childhood memories for inspiration, and are quick to add that Kidsworld offers an opportunity even for grown ups to relive their childhood.
With prior experience on stage being "restricted mainly to acting," the duo's attempts at direction and managing all the aspects of production "may have been fraught with problems but the outcome has been doubly satisfying," says Dubey. "We've been finding our feet and learning to cope with every production. And we try to produce at least two plays every year."
What makes these productions particularly unique is that it is theatre for and by kids. "We have all the age groups ranging from three to 20," says Dubey. And, extracting the best from children can be quite a job, especially if there are more than 70 to manage. "But the ultimate result is what makes it worthwhile. You have to win their trust and treat them on a one to one basis."
Adds Sabharwal, "We've had problem kids too, who have blossomed and performed with aplomb." And Lushin Dubey's experience with dyslexic and learning disabled children, both here and in the US, certainly comes in handy. "I always try and include a couple of such children because it does wonders to their confidence and ego," she says.
Battling exams and homework, these children's enthusiasm has to be seen to be believed. But, then, that's most natural. After all, Kidsworld does offer a chance to escape everyday realities, children retreat to a world where good finally wins over evil, and kings and queens live happily ever after''
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