TIATRO : A CRITICAL STUDY - [Ph.D. Thesis by Andre Rafael Fernandes]

TIATRO : A CRITICAL STUDY
[Ph.D. Thesis by Andre Rafael Fernandes]

Abstract

The study traces the development of Tiatro from its various origins.
Whereas the general impression is that this dramatic form began in 1892 in Bombay, the thesis traces Tiatro?s genesis to the traditional Zagors and Khells which have evolved over several centuries from ancient performances.

The study documents available references from the earliest Portuguese plays in Goa. The developments in Music and Song [both Indian and Western] are tracked and their integral functions in Tiatros is indicated. The research accounts for variations in the spelling of Tiatro and studies diverse aspects such as Genres, Thematic concerns, Phases of growth, Structure, use of language, roles of actors, women, set designing, lighting, innovations, stage management, publicity, censorship, limitations and audience participation, etc.

The thesis gives due credit to, and highlights the contribution of Joao Agostinho Fernandes, rightly regarded as Pai Tiatrist the 'Father of Tiatro'. Several of his major plays are analysed and their impact assessed. Joao Agostinho is found to be not just an excellent ground-breaking playwright but also a forceful votary of social
reform.

An important contribution of this research is the innovative documentation of Joao Agostinho's manuscripts, handbills, brochures, news clippings, reviews and related items in his collection. He is also presented as a role model for Tiatrists of all times.

Hundreds of Tiatrists have kept audiences enthralled for thousands of performances in Goa, Mumbai and elsewhere. On any given weekend during the theatrical season, at least ten shows are held in various parts of Goa.

While justice cannot be done to all the Tiatrists, in a study of the present type, an attempt is made to briefly analyse the published plays of nine other playwrights. These are : Aleixinho de Candolim, A.R. Souza Ferrao, Kid Boxer, J. P. Souzalin, C. Alvares, Remmie J. Colaco, John Claro Fernandes, Prem Kumar and M. Boyer.

A list of Tiatrists is also appended.

Issues, Problems and Challenges in Contemporary Tiatro are discussed in the study. In spite of the general apathy of official / government bodies and the onslaught of cable television and alternative forms of entertainment, it is seen that Tiatro has so far managed to hold its ground as the premier form of staged entertainment for Konkani speakers.

Ever since Antonio Piedade Moraes innovated the path-breaking transformation of the ground based khells ?to stage performances of Khell-Tiatr and the subsequent evolution of the Non-Stop Drama, Tiatro has been enthused with new life and dynamism.

With the gradual decline of the Tiatro production in Mumbai and corresponding spurt in formation of Goan troupes, theatrical activities have resurged. Tiatros entertain not just local audiences but also perform for the benefit of emigrants elsewhere in India, the Middle East, London and Toronto.

Developments in communication technologies such as the Internet permit the Goan diaspora to be aware of the contemporary artistes and performances. Considering all its inherent strengths, Tiatro has an assured future as a medium of entertainment, education and social transformation.
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