A R SOUZA FERRAO - Birth centenary celebrations begins

A R SOUZA FERRAO - Birth centenary celebrations begins

The “Pai Tiatrist” – Joao Agostinho Fernades (JAF)indoor auditorium, Margao, which was packed to capacity reverberated at exactly 7.30 P.M to the echoes of the tiatr “Gouyo Put”. The tiatr staged 57 years ago, bringing back nostalgic memories of that famous Konkani playwright, a musician, singer, composer , director, the hat donned, well attired bespectacled gentleman, late Augusto Remedios Souza Ferrao (b: 1.6.1909 d: 6.3.1978) a native of Ambora Raia, whose inaugural “Souza Ferrao Birth Centenary Celebrations “ under the auspices of the A R Souza Ferrao Cultural and Charitable Trust and the Tiatr Academy, Govt of Goa got underway. .

This time round his tiatr was directed by veteran Konkani playwright Shri. Anilkumar and others viz; Fatima, Jessie, Angela, C D Silva, Ben Evangelist, Anthony San, Marcus Vaz, Mil-Mel-Nel, Xavier Gomes Conny M, Antush Comedian Jesus.

The inaugural function began at 6.00 P.M with the lighting of the traditional lamp . Ms Flora Wilma Souza Ferrao welcomed the gathering and explained the objectives of the Trust.

Ms Ovita DSouza gave a brief narration of the life of her grandfather A R Souza Ferrao

Alzira D Costa, Sasha Rebello, Sonali & Sunny Fernandes grand children of Antonelio Conceicao Fernandes (s/o Pai Tiatrist )and Priyanka offered bouquets to the dignitaries.

Ciriaco Dias a Konkani playwright since 1942 minced no words to express his disenchantment towards the tiatrist from Mumbai who were not bestowed any State awards till date. Some of them are dead and others will soon follow suit he said. He reminded the Government that it is the tiatrists of yesteryears who sacrificed every thing for the benefit of the society with no monetary returns. He chided the Government for merely appointing committees and launched his tirade against those that constituted such committees who displayed a lackadaisical attitude towards the sentiments of the tiatrist. he however said that CM Digamber Kamat had stood by his promises and would surely rectify such obstacles.

Chief Minister, Shri. Digambar Kamat the Chief Guest speaking at the inaugural function assured the Tiatrist of all support to their cause. His Government has released grants for the Academy to have their own premises a promise he made at the inauguration of the Tiatr Academy on 16th February, 2009.

Later he released a book on A R Souza Ferrao which gives incite in to the life and times of A R Souza Ferrao and several pictures.

CM also inaugurated a website on A R Souza Ferrao on the ocassion

Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mauvin Godinho, Guest of Honour, speaking on the ocassion said that unless the audience extends support to the tiatros this aspect of Goan culture will not flourish.

Mr. Rico Rod (Ricardo Vincent Rodrigues) the inimitable comic faced, comedian a native of Sirlim supported the views of Cyriaco and paid a tribute in memory of late M Boyer (who they fondly called Manu) with a song unaccompanied by music.

Mr Tomazinho Cardozo President of the Tiatr Academy tried to convince the audience on the technicalites that prevented the Goa Government from awarding the Bombay based tiatrists. But this did not find favour with the audience.

President of the A R Souza Ferrao Cultural and Charitable Trust thanked the audience.

Special momentos were given to the CM, Dy Speaker, President of the Tiatr Academy and Rico Rod. A special momento was also given to Anil Kumar who had willingly agreed to re-act the play on today's ocassion.

A maid Lourencin of Mr A R Souza Ferrao who used to look after their house in Fatorda and was always available at the beck and call of A R Souza Ferrao and other tiatrist who practiced there was given a cash award on the ocassion.

Mr Domnic De Souza compered the programme. The family of Pai Tiatrist were special invitees on the ocassion.

Flora Wilma Souza Ferrao the daughter of Mr. A R Souza Ferrao who otherwise lives in Arossim speaking to this writer at her Maddel Grande , Margao residence, candidly admitted that “ while the tiatr audience remembers him for his stage performances , her father indeed was an excellent musician . Yes - Music - was his forte he loved to participate in Goan folk songs and dances “ . Indeed in a befitting tribute to his musical prowess the second day programme at the same venue and time will be devoted to Konkani dance, song ,and music by eminent , Mandos Dulpods by Goyche Noketram - Marianella Mascarenhas e Dias, Instrumental music on by Theresa Figueiredo, Goretti Pinheiro Chernol Mendonca, Antonio Fernandes, Lourdes Soares, Celina Andrews and Marisa Andrews. Cansauleche Kala Mogi and songs from several films viz Amchem Noxib, “Nirmonn” ‘Sukachem Sopon’, ‘Kortubancho Sonvsar’, ‘Boglantt’ ani ‘Bhuierantalo Munis’.. She also confirmed that the song “Sorg Tujea Doleani “ lyrics were by her father Souza Ferrao sung by Lorna Cordeiro with music by Chris Perry.

“Dad was the first Konkani artist whose musical programme in Konkani was broadcast by All India Radio Bombay on 11.November 1936. Later Columbia Gramaphone Co Ltd also recorded his songs” . She added – “while Dad was employed with P & T as a draughtsman, it is here he met my mother late Antonette Pinto (died on 9.5.1987) who also worked in the same office– a love marriage indeed . . In Goa the family moved from Ambora Raia several years ago to Fatorda to carry on their business. At this house which was otherwise closed while they were away, at Mumbai, Konkani tiatrists used the premises for their practices.


According to Wilma as she is commonly known “Dad worked wonderfully well in any female role and his attire in the role of a “kunbi” was par excellent”

What made them think of these celebrations and setting up the Trust. “Dad had donated most of his tiatr and music proceeds for social and charitable causes. My brother Henry now abroad and myself are well settled in life . We did begin by donating a hearse 2008 to the Lions Club of Majorda-Cansaulim-Velcao - that was thirty years after his death. Indeed he died in Bombay in 1978 of an undetected illness which was later diagonised as “white” jaundice. The other plans of the A R Souza Ferrao Trust is to set up a Music School for youngsters at dads house at Fatorda, which is now being developed. An area specially carved out for the “tiatrists” to continue with their practice as before, and there are plans to stage his “ tiatrs” original plays” . “Many of his works were destroyed when an adjoining building collapsed on their building at 5 Oak Lane, Near St George Hospital at Flora Fountain ----added her husband Mr. Ivor De Souza and a native of Arrossim and the President of the Trust.

The other members of the Trust now registered on 6.1.1989 as - Charitable and Cultural --are Mr. Jerry Covaco, Vice President, Ms Ovitta D Souza Secretary, and Mr. Henry Souza Asst Secretary and Flora Wilma Souza Ferrao Treasurer.

When quizzed specifically why none of the two children Wilma and son Henry ventured into tiatrs – well Wilma admitted that “there were several intercine rivalry among the Konkani playwrights that often surfaced and destroyed creativity and talent. Dad was a disillusioned man when some of his close colleagues parted ways and this hurt him immensely until he died”

Today ironically even as the mortal remains of Padmashree Manuel Santana Aguiar 78 a veteran Konkani playwright await burial (on 2nd at 3.30 p.m.) at Santemol in Raia, and the birth centenary celebrations of A R Souza Ferrao are underway in the Pai Tiatrist - JAF hall it is a sheer coincidence that the duo who acted in tiatrs of Pai tiatrist could be watching the celebrations from their heavenly abode.

Sidelights of the event:
The function started at 6.00 awaiting the CM
A one minutes silence was observed in memory of departed soul M Boyer.
The almost one hour and fifteen minutes speeches to an extent bored the audience.

from the Pai Tiatrist auditorium

GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES,
BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA)
+91 98221 58584 (24 HRS)
gonsalvesgodfreyji@yahoo.co.in

1/6/2009

Young Goans Club, Bahrain condoles the death of M.Boyer

“What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains immortal.” - Albert Pine, English Author.

Young Goans Club, Bahrain deeply mourn the sad demise of Padmashree M. Boyer - the icon of Goan language, drama and art.


May God grant his soul eternal rest.
Our condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of all the Goans in Bahrain.

:::Managing Committee
& Members of Young Goans Club, Bahrain:::

M.Boyer…..the legend lives on

M.Boyer…..the legend lives on

●Tomazinho Cardozo


If there was one dramatist who dared to experiment with innovations on the Konkani stage besides delivering stellar performances in innumerable tiatrs and lending his distinct voice to thousands of timeless songs (kantaram), it was M Boyer.

Considered to be a living legend of the tiatr movement, the 78 year old M Boyer, born on October 11, 1930 and christened Manuel Aguiar, took an avid interest in acting and singing right from his childhood. However, his parents, not too keen on seeing their son grow up to be a performer, tried to discourage him from pursuing his passion.

But, despite all their attempts, Aguiar never gave up his love for the stage. He was a determined young man and continued to pursue his dream under the pseudonym, M. Boyer.

Although he didn’t possess a very melodious voice, it was M Boyer’s lyrics and signature style of singing that left several audiences spellbound and placed him among the most sought after singers of Konkani stage. In fact, it was very rare for him to leave the stage sans a thundering applause from his audiences and pleas for an encore performance.

That M Boyer was a gifted performer was manifested by his ability to mesmerize audiences through his extempore composition of lyrics on stage, laced with wit and sarcasm. While his songs mostly addressed issues related to the decline of good values in society, they also criticized the misdeeds of tainted politicians and leaders.

This multi-faceted personality will also be remembered as one of the finest script writers of the Konkani stage. He penned many tiatrs, some of which are timeless. Dramas such as “Bhurgim ani Bhangar”, “Adim tem Atam Hem”, “Kazari Put Xezari”, “Sonvsar Sudorlo”, “Ghor Dukhi Ganv Suki” and “Chintnam Zalim Sopnam” find a place among his most memorable works.

But, the one tiatr which created history was “Ekuch Rosto”. It was penned by M Boyer and was based on communal harmony shared between the two major communities of Goa.

M Boyer’s contribution to tiatrs and kantaram is invaluable. Because of his huge role in enriching and preserving Goan culture and traditions, the Sangeet Natak Academy in New Delhi – the highest cultural institution of India – honoured him with the Sangeet Natak Academy Award. Incidentally, M Boyer is the only Goan artiste to receive this prestigious award.

The government of India also took note of his great contribution to Goan culture and bestowed him with the prestigious Padmashri. M Boyer will, therefore, go down in history as the only cultural artist from Goa to have received both, the Sangeet Natak Academy Award and the Padmashri.

Apart from his unforgettable contributions to tiatrs, M Boyer lobbied for the preservation fo Goan identity. He believed that the Konkani language alone could strengthen the foundations of Goan identity. To support his cause, he participated in all movements and agitations which were organized to preserve the state and its identity. He used the Konkani stage and his songs to arouse feelings of solidarity in the Goan people. He also succeeded to a great extent in his attempt to convince the people of the importance of Konkani to the Goan identity.

M Boyer was an institution by himself. His unwavering dedication to the Konkani stage was exemplary and led to him securing the highest position in the tiatr fraternity.

Tomazinho Cardozo
Candolim, Goa

Note: This Article was published on Times of India (Goa Edition) on 31/05/09


- As forwarded to Gaspar Almeida, Moderator
Gulf-Goans e-Newsletter on 1/6/2009

KGTS CONDOLE THE DEATH OF PADMASHREE M. BOYER

KGTS CONDOLE THE DEATH OF PADMASHREE M. BOYER.

KUWAIT-GOA TIATRISTANCHI SONSTHA (KGTS) - KUWAIT , deeply mourn the death of our most respected and Senior-most Tiatrist, Padmashree M. BOYER, expired on 30th May 2009 at Raia-Goa.

May the Almighty GOD give strength and courage to his bereaved wife Martha, Sons and family members to bear this loss. May his soul rest in peace.

President and Members of
Kuwait-Goa Tiatristanchi Sonstha - Kuwait.


1/6/2009

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Dalgado Konknni Akademi Condoles M Boyer's death

(Premanand A. Lotlikar)
President,
Dalgado Konknni Akademi
(Mob: 9822135236)

Dalgado Konknni Akademi Condoles M Boyer's death

Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) expresses its deep grief for the passing away of M.Boyer, writer-director, actor and composer-cum-singer of Konkani stage.
During his life time he educated the tiatr lovers through his tiatrs and songs. Sonvsar Sudhorlo, Ghor Dukhi Ganv Sukhi, Ekuch Rosto, etc. are some of his educative dramas. Through Ekuch Rosto he spread the message of communal harmony. He contributed to Konkani language with his rich tiatr scripts and songs and improved the overall standard of tiatr. Due to his efforts to take tiatrs to new heights he was awarded by several organizations in Goa and abroad. He was the only goan to receive the highest cultural award of Sangeet Nattak Akademi, New Delhi.
The death of this veteran tiatrist is a big loss to Konknni stage and leaves a vaccum in the field of tiatr which is hard to fill.
DKA prays for his departed soul and offers condolences to his breaved family.

30/5/2009

M.Boyer - Dead

Noted Konkani playwright Mr. Manuel Santan Aguiar popularly known as M Boyer expired today morning at 10 a.m at his residence in Santemol after a prolonged physical disability. He was 78 years (born on 11/10/1930)

He ruled the Konkani stage for well over half a century and the first to earn a Padma Shree, (amongst the Konkani playwrights ) besides several state awards and other awards. He rose from humble beginning but his inimitable style endeared him to audiences wherever he performed.

Acting was inborn and despite being reprimanded while at school Catholic Education Institute in Margao he continued to pursue his acting mission under the pseudonym
M Taylor and later M Boyer.

His first play was "Rinkari"and he excelled in direction script writing singing acting etc He leaves behind his wife and five sons. The funeral date and time is yet to be announced

from the Raia end

GODFREY J I GONSALVES
BORDA MARGAO
9822158584

30/5/2009

Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) expresses its deep grief

30/05/2009

To
The Editor
Gulf-Goans e-Newsletter
(Attn: Mr. Gaspar Almeida)


Sir,

Kindly publish the following press note in your esteemed daily.

Thanking you,

(Premanand A. Lotlikar)
President,
Dalgado Konknni Akademi
(Mob: 9822135236)



PRESS RELEASE


Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) expresses its deep grief for the passing away of M.Boyer, writer-director, actor and composer-cum-singer of Konkani stage.
During his life time he educated the tiatr lovers through his tiatrs and songs. Sonvsar Sudhorlo, Ghor Dukhi Ganv Sukhi, Ekuch Rosto, etc. are some of his educative dramas. Through Ekuch Rosto he spread the message of communal harmony. He contributed to Konkani language with his rich tiatr scripts and songs and improved the overall standard of tiatr. Due to his efforts to take tiatrs to new heights he was awarded by several organizations in Goa and abroad. He was the only goan to receive the highest cultural award of Sangeet Nattak Akademi, New Delhi.
The death of this veteran tiatrist is a big loss to Konknni stage and leaves a vaccum in the field of tiatr which is hard to fill.
DKA prays for his departed soul and offers condolences to his breaved family.

Souza Ferrao Birth Centenary Celebrations - 1st June 2009

Souza Ferrao
Birth Centenary Celebrations


Late Souza Ferrao Birth Centenary Celebrations will commence on 1st June, 2009 at 5.30 p.m at the Pai Tiatrist JAF Auditoriun, Ravindta Bhavan, Margao. On this occasion a tiatr “Gouyo Put” written by Souza Ferrao about 60 years back will be staged. The Tiatr is directed by well known tiatr artiste Shri Anil Kumar and popular artistes of Tiatr stage namely Jessie, Fatima, Angela, Marcos Vaz, Xavier Gomes, Anthony San, C. D’Silva, Conny M, Mil-Mel-Nel, Antush and comedian Jesus and Ben Evangelisto among others will act in the tiatr. The Stage Setting is by Saldanha and the Music is provided by Carlito.



On 2nd June 2009 folowing programmes will be organized.
● String Assemble : Instrumental music on violins, violas and Cello by Theresa Figueiredo, Goretti Pinheiro, Chernol Mendonca, Antonio Fernandes, Lourdes Soares, Celina Andrews and Marisa Andrews.
● Goyenchim Noketram: Mando, Dulpods and other Goan folk songs led by Marianella Mascarenhas e Dias
● Cansauleche Kala Mogi: Will present “To Souza Ferrao With Love” - a tribute to this great versatile Konkani stage and cine artiste. His contribution to the Konkani film world as a lyricist, actor and singer would be highlighted through a choral rendition of songs from his films like ‘Amchem Noxib’, ‘Nirmonn’, ‘Sukachem Sopon’, ‘Kortubancho Sonvsar’, ‘Boglantt’ and ‘Bhuierantalo Munis’.
On Both days, the programmes are open to public. All lovers of music particilarly lovers of Konkani tiatr, song and music are requested to attend the Birth Centenary Celebrations.

Tomazinho Cardozo
President
Tiatr Academy, Goa

- Forwarded to www.goa-world.com moderator by the Tiatr Academy President
on 27/05/2009

A.R. SOUZA-FERRAO - A Versatile Tiatr Artiste

Press Conference
Held on 23rd May, 2009, at the Kala Akademy, Goa

A Brief Note on:
A.R. SOUZA-FERRAO - A Versatile Tiatr Artiste



A.R. Souza Ferrao Cultural & Charitable Trust in collaboration with Tiatr Academy – Goa will organize the Birth Centenary Celebrations of late A.R. Souza Ferrao on 1st and 2nd June 2009. The Celebrations will be held at the Joao Agostinho Fernandes Auditorium at the Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, Goa. A brief profile of late A.R. Souza Ferrao is given here below:

Childhood
Augusto Remedios Souza Ferrao was born on June 1, 1909 at Ambora – Raia, Salcete, Goa to Mr. Joaquim Mariano Souza and Mrs. Maria Cecilia Ferrao. Young Augusto Remedios studied in the Parchial School in Margao. From there he joined the Government Primary school in Portuguese. After completion of his Portuguese ‘Segundo Grau’, he joined the Catholic Educational Institute to study English. Besides dramatic art, he was a good artist and in order to develop this talent he studied at J.J. School of Art in Bombay. Although he was acting on tiatr stage during his school days, he never neglected his studies. In the Parochial School he learnt music and violin. He had a good voice and flair for acting right from childhood.

Maiden appearance.
Mr. Basilio Furtado from Chinchinim introduced Souza-Ferrao to the Tiatr stage. He acted as ‘Princess Diana’, - a female character - in his drama ‘Naddponn Amigachem’ staged at Clube Harmonia Hall at Borda. Although Souza-Ferrao was totally new to the stage he acted wonderfully well. The songs that he sang were also big hits. He went on becoming popular. Because there were too many Souzas in the tiatr community, he preferred to have a different identity for himself. Therefore, he combined his father’s and mothers’ surnames and made Souza-Ferrao his surname. Then he styled his name as A. R. Souza – Ferrao, by which he became all famous!
He has acted with all the the past famous Konkani playwrights and directors such as M/s Joao Agostinho Fernandes, Saib Rocha, J.P. Souzalin, Jack Aquila, Rogaciano Ernest Rebello, John Lazarus D’Souza, etc.
1

Appreciation
Once a famous Portuguese actor named Silva Sanches came to perform in Bombay at Royal Opera House. The Portuguese Consul selected M/s Luis Borges and Souza-Ferrao, the only two Goan artistes, to act in the programme. The show was attended by a selected audience. Of all, the two Goan performers proved outstanding and of course, Souza-Ferrao received more applause.

At the All India Radio.
Souza – Ferrao was the first Konkani artiste to bradcast the first Konkani musical programme on All India Radio, Bombay on November, 11, 1936. Mr. Souza-Ferrao produced the programme for which the music was provided by Mr. Manuel Alphonso. He was an excellent composer of lyrics as well as music and equally excellent singer too. Many of his hit songs were recorded by HMV and other recording companies.

At the National level
In 1954 and 1955, Souza-Ferrao was the only Konkani artiste to be invited to perform in Delhi on the occasion of the Republic Day. ‘The Goan Folk Song and Dance Party’ led by Souza-Ferrao was adjudged as the best. The then President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, praised Mr. Souza Ferrao for his excellente performance. The Central Government produced a documentary - ‘The Folk Dances of India’- in which Souza-Ferrao’s folk dances of Goa were included. Besides the Folk Dances Troupe, Souza Ferrao had his own dramatic Troupe called Jolly Brothers Darmatic Club through which he encouraged youngsters to enter theTiatr stage.

A valuable writer
Souza-Ferrao scripted and directed many plays out of which ‘Almam Vetat Sorgar’, ‘Pech-Pech’, ‘Kazari Okol’, ‘Ghatkeponn’, ‘Zotkaxi’, ‘Santan Bavdi’, ‘Govio Put’ and ‘Paichem Farikponn’ became hit. Besides, he also helped many playwrights to stage their shows. He also directed many of Mr. Joao Agostinho Fernandes’ plays. Souza Ferrao believed that good singing, dancing and acting are essential elements that go into making a good artiste.

A versatile actor
Souza-Ferrao was a multifaceted personality. He could fit in any role. His acting ability was proved by the different roles he polayed on the Tiatr stage. He had acted as a girl, as an old man, as an old woman, as a Hindu, as a Manglorean, as a landlord, as a mad man, as a drunkard, etc. His forte was Goan Kunnbi roles.
(The cartoon was forwarded to goa-world.com by the Cartoonist himself (ALEXYZ) - Thanks)

On the Silver Screen.
From his childhood, Souza-Ferrao wished to act in films. In the late 40s when Mr. AL Jerry Braganza announced his first film Mogacho Aunddo his hopes brightened, but was disappointed because Mr. Braganza did not include any commerciat Tiatr artiste in his film.
However he fulfilled his silver dream when he acted in the film “Amchem Noxib” which was a big hit. Since then he acted prominent and varied roles in almost all the major Konkani films such as ‘Amchem Noxib’, ‘Nirmonn’, ‘Sukhachem Soponn’, ‘Mhuji Ghorkarn’, ‘Kortubancho Sounsar’, ‘Jivit Amchem Oxem’, ‘Bhuierantlo Munis’, ‘Boglantt’, etc.

A humane personality
Besides his stage and screen life, he was a gem of a person in his day-to-day life. He always cared for others particularly the poor and the downtrodden. He was one artiste who was ever ready to stage his shows in aid of causes that serve the society. Once, during Portuguese times, Governor Cabral’s wife wanted to raise funds to help T.B. patients. Dr. Froilano de Melo and Dr.Victor Dias, in order to swell this fund asked Souza-Ferrao to help and he, with his open heart, organized numerous shows in different villages in aid of the T. B. patients of Goa. Considering the wishes and ideals of late Souza-Ferrao, the Trust – A. R. Souza-Ferrao Cultural & Charitable Trust – has been established to promote the ideals of this great personality.

Conclusion
Souza-Ferrao expired on March 6, 1978 at St. George Hospital, Bombay. He was 69.
He was the greatest artiste, the Konkani stage has so far produced. On gramophone records today, we hear his sweet voice, on the silver screen he comes alive and on the stage we will remember him as an actor who had a vision for Goan Tiatr, song and music.


Tomazinho Cardozo
President
Tiatr Academy – Goa.


N.B. The above inputs on the life of A. R. Souza Ferrao
are by John Claro Fernandes.

Birth Centenary of Souza Ferrao

A. R. Souza Ferrao Cultural & Charitable Trust in collaboration with Tiatr Academy Goa will celebrate the Birth Centenary of Souza Ferrao on 1st June, 2009 at the Pai Tiatrist Auditorium at Ravindra Bhavan Margao, Goa.



A. R. Souza - Ferrao
Birth Centenary Celebrations
On 1st & 2nd June 2009, at the Pai Tiatrist JAF Auditorium, Ravindra Bhavan, Margao.

Programme

Monday, the 1st June 2009 at 5.30 p.m.

Inaugural Function
Shri. Digambar Kamat, Hon. Chief Minister of Goa, has consented to be the Chief Guest.
Shri. Mauvin Godinho, Dy. Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly
and
Shri. Rico Rod, a veteran artiste of Tiatr stage, will be the Guests of Honour.
Shri. Ivoro De Souza, President of A. R. Souza-Ferrao Cultural & Charitable Trust will grace the occasion
Shri. Tomazinho Cardozo, President of Tiatr Academy, Goa will preside over the function.

The Inaugural Function will be followed by the staging of the tiatr – “Gouyo Put” written by late A. R. Souza Ferrao. “Goyo Put” is directed by the veteran tiatr artiste Shri Anil Kumar and popular artistes of Tiatr stage namely Jessie, Fatima, Angela, Marcos Vaz, Xavier Gomes, Anthony San, C. D’Silva, Conny M, Mil-Mel-Nel, Antushand comedian Jesus and Ben Evangelisto among others will act in the tiatr. The Stage Setting is by Saldanha and the Music is provided by Carlito.

Tuesday, the 2nd June, 2009 at 5.30 p.m.
Concluding Function
Shri. Remo Fernandes, Goa’s Pop Star, has consented to be the Chief Guest.
Dr. Francisco Colaco, a lover of Goan drama, song, dance and music
and
Shri. Prince Jacob, a popular artiste of Tiatr stage will be the Guests of Honour.
Shri. Ivoro De Souza, President of A. R. Souza-Ferrao Cultural & Charitable Trust will grace the occasion
Shri. Rose Ferns, Vice-President of Tiatr Academy, Goa, will preside over the function.


The Concluding Function will be followed by a cultural programme representing A. R. Souza – Ferrao’s interests in Goan Tiatr, cinema, music, song and dance. It will be presented by:
● String Assemble
Instrumentals on violins, violas and Cello by Theresa Figueiredo, Goretti Pinheiro, Chernol Mendonca, Antonio Fernandes, Lourdes Soares, Celina Andrews and Marisa Andrews.
● Goyenchim Noketram
Mando, Dulpods and other Goan folk songs led by Marianella Mascarenhas e Dias
● Cansauleche Kala Mogi
Will present “To Souza Ferrao With Love” - a tribute to this great versatile Konkani stage and cine artiste. His contribution to the Konkani film world as a lyricist, actor and singer would be highlighted through a choral rendition of songs from his films like ‘Amchem Noxib’, ‘Nirmonn’, ‘Sukachem Sopon’, ‘Kortubancho Sonvsar’, ‘Boglantt’ and ‘Bhuierantalo Munis’.
The orgaizers - A. R. Souza-Ferrao Cultural & Charitable Trust and Tiatr Academy Goa - invite one and all to attend the functions on both the days. Let us remember and respect the great artistes of Konkani cultural heritage who contributed selflessly and immensely to the promotion of Konkani Tiatr, Cinema, dance, song and music.

Tomazinho Cardozo
President, Tiatr Academy – Goa.

Honouring “Pai Tiatrist”

Honouring “Pai Tiatrist”
Leonardo Marcel Sequeira, Siolim/Maputo

During my current visit to Goa from Maputo, after almost 22 years, I was impressed by the changes in the state. Margao city has a lot of vehicular traffic, a little chaotic, but yes, this city is growing. But the garbage strewn around is awful, given Goa’s otherwise scenic beauty. The high-rise buildings are adding to the traffic problems.

At night, I saw the well-illuminated Rabindra Bhavan. I attended a Konkani tiatr there and what impressed me was a portrait of one senior citizen “Pai Tiatrist – Joao Agostinho Fernandes (21/12/1871 to 29/08/1947)”.




This reminded me of the good old days when we used to see tiatrs in Mumbai. Of course, the tiatr was entertaining, with a lot of humour. But, I could not much follow the Konkani, having lost touch with the language we otherwise spoke in Parel, Mumbai and Siolim, Goa.

I tried to get more details of “Pai tiatrist” from an ex-councillor of the local municipal body, seated at my side in the auditorium, who informed me that his house was just across a small rivulet on the southern side of the Bhavan. He added that the date of birth ought to be 14/12/1871 and not 21/12/1871, perhaps a slip-up.
The next day, we visited the house of “Pai Tiatrist”. Unfortunately, the inmates were not around.

The quaint, tiled, old house resembled many of such structures that dotted almost every part of Goa in the good old days. I was told that the government has plans to preserve his house and that indeed is a noble gesture which one needs to appreciate.
But much more needs to be done. This house could be an important landmark for Goans like me visiting the state. But there was no name given to the narrow winding path leading to the House.

In Maputo and other parts of East Africa, it is traditional to name streets after eminent persons and I suggested to my guide, the ex-councillor, that he could suggest naming the road “Rua de Pai Tiatrist”. I hope this suggestion is acted upon by the government.
(LETTER TO THE EDITOR AS PUBLISHED IN HERALD (GOA))
http://www.oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=21989&cid=13



Picture courtesy: http://tiatracademy.blogspot.com/2009/02/world-renowned-architect-visited-house.html

http://tiatracademy.blogspot.com

http://www.goa-world.com/goa/tiatr&tiatrists/

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TIATRIST NASLOLO TIATR DIS (TIATR Day Celebration without TIATRISTS)

TIATRIST NASLOLO TIATR DIS

- Vitorin Pereira, Utorda


Kala Akademy Gõy, 1996 vorsa-sun Abrilache 17ver Tiatr Dis monoita.

Xembor vorsam odik zalim tea disa bhov manest bab Lucasino Ribeiro ani Pai Tiatrist Joao Agostinho Fernandes hannim poilech pautt Mumboi xharant “Italiano Bhurgo” ho Konknni tiatr machier dakhoilear. Tachea ugddasak Kala Akademy ho dis 1996 vorsasun vhodda dobajean monoitana vorsan-voros kaim mhalgoddea tiatristank puroskar bhettoun sotkar korta. Hi tiatr mogiank, tiatr kalakorank khoxechi gozal.

Vorsavolli pormonnem hea vorsa Kala Akademint Tiatr disache karavollik hanv hazir aslom ani machier ravon don utram ulounk mhaka bhag favo zalem. Machier ravon vosrear nodor ghalit tor tiatr mogi (polloupi) favo toxe hazir asle punn khontichi gozal mhollear amchea tiatrist bhov thodde asle! Karann amche tiatrist bhav bhoinnank Abrilacher 17ver tiatr dis mhunnon khobor nasli kai? Vo Kala Akademichim apovnnea potram mellonknant. Tiatr dis mhunnche amchea tiatristank ghorchich kariavoll nhoi? Tankam apovnnea potranchi goroz asli?

Itlench nhoi fattim Moddganv don dis Dalgado Konknni Akademichem Sahityik ani sonskrutik sammelon aslem tednaim tiatrist favo tea porim nasle. Aiz kal tiatrist Konknni bhaxe vorvim tiatranim bhag ghetat ani aplea ghorabeank duddvancho adhar melloitat vo thodde tiatranchea zoddivorinch aplem kuttumb sambhalltat mhollear chuk zaunchina. Eka-eka tiatristachea sangatak ghorchim dog-tiguch ailear kariavollicho vosro chikar bhorom ieta. Tiatr polloupi koslei Konknni kariavollik khoxen ietat.

Punn amche tiatrist? Orthik vo dusro kosloi faido aslearuch ietele. Na tor oslea dobajeanchem kainch poddon vochonk na. Portem zalear Konknni ami tiatrist sambhallttat, amchi Romi Konknni amkam zai oxem hod’ddem fuddem kaddun machier ravon sangonk meklle! Hanv sogllech tiatristank hem lagu korina. Thodde khorench tan-bhuk visron Konknni khatir vavurtat. Vichitr gozal hi, tiatrist machier ravon kitli sobit Konknni utram ani sonvad uloitat, punn tech machievele denvle mhunttoch eka meka thaim Konkliz tastat toxench aplea ghoranim bail-bhurgeam thaim Inglez uloitat.

Itlench nhoi Romi Konnnichea fuddari passun eka-meka thaim khazgint Ingezuch katortat. Te uloitat tea gozalink Konknni utram nant kai? Vo amcho Konknnico mog fokot suvartha khatir vo tiatr polloupi bhousak fottoupa khatir? Ami Konknnicho apsuvarthi motlobponnan dongi mog korcho nhoi, punn nisuvarthi ani niz mog korunk favo oxem tumkam disona? Sodeak itlench puro.

JIVIT / Ank Mai 2009
(JIVIT - Konkani Monthly Magazine, issue May 2009).

Goa's Innovative, Creative Gift To India's Multicultural Ethos

Goa's Innovative, Creative Gift To India's Multicultural Ethos
by NANDKUMAR KAMAT




TIATR � to offer a simple definition, is the self censored, liberal and progressive, democratic and dynamic theatre of the fun loving Konkani speaking masses. It is a polychromatic kaleidoscopic celebration of the travails and triumphs of life - life as seen from an ordinary Goan�s perspective. It is absolutely different from modern Marathi or Konkani theatre.Tiatr is Goa�s cultural, social and political window.
Tiatr is a non-violent medium of mass catharsis. The audience of Tiatr establishes a communion with the stage. The members laugh, cry, weep, sing-along, cheer, despair, celebrate, applaud, taunt, ridicule and at the end of the show seem excited but relaxed. Good tiatrs have become household cultural icons. Many artists who actually lead a simple private, non-glamorous life also achieve instant celebrity status.
Although it is not admitted sincerely - Tiatr is undoubtedly Goa�s innovative and creative gift to the vast spectrum of India�s mind boggling multicultural ethos.
Tiatr was Goa�s rediscovery of forgotten Indo-European traditions. The residual folk elements of Tiatr are still traceable in �jagor,� �lokam khel� and �intruz.� The Italian opera was possibly born out of ancient Indian musical theatre (sangitikas). It bears a typical Indo-European cultural stamp. Goan artists in Bombay were inspired by the Italian opera. Originally they performed crude imitations. But later original scripts were written - many with progressive social themes. After many innovations and modifications � the Goan tiatr achieved its� present identity, probably before the beginning of the Second World War.
Tiatr remained neglected till the newly established Goa Kala Akademy in 1974 decided to organise Tiatr competitions at the state level. These competitions caused an explosion of young talent. The beauty of this competition was its� simple organization and consistency. Today Konkani Tiatr has become a secular stage. What was originally seen as a theatre dominated by Roman Catholic artists has proved today as an accommodative form which welcomes any talented Konkani speaking artist irrespective of religion, caste, gender. The tiatrists have also moulded themselves as messengers of peace, social harmony, justice and upholders of secular spirit of India. Tiatrists, who present powerful social themes, have volunteered to act as conscience keepers of the society.
Let us contrast their undeclared mission with the self styled fascist moral police who have recently erupted in cities like Mangalore. As long as Tiatr is flourishing and thriving, the society would never tolerate the fascist virus of moral policing in Goa.
Modern Tiatr has undergone vast transformation in the past 30 years. More than 2000 shows of tiatr are performed every year. With an average audience of 700, it is estimated that more than a million people patronise tiatr. Globalisation and economic recession have not affected the popularity of tiatr because people relate to this form intimately. Tiatr fully deserves the status of �cultural industry� because it is a source of direct and indirect employment of more than ten thousand Goans who do not depend on any subsidy from the state government. Tiatr producers work with meager capital and are often stretched beyond their financial capacity to support a good production. Therefore by officially according the status of �cultural industry� to Goa�s Tiatr, the government would be offering employment security to ten thousand Goans. This makes sound economic, cultural and political sense.
February 16 is a red-letter day in the post liberation cultural history of Goa. Consistent with the objectives of UNESCO and commitments made in the cultural policy of Goa, 2007, Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat took concrete, positive and determined steps to establish the Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG). TAG would be formally launched by the legendary tiatrist, Master Vaz (Jose Francisco Vaz), at the Ravindra Bhavan, Margao on February 16. All the efforts of the tiatrists to get state recognition which was denied to them for past 117 years have not been wasted. TAG would be an all-purpose vehicle to preserve, conserve and promote Tiatr and all the issues - economic, cultural, social, administrative associated with this theatre and the industry. Formation of TAG is a signal to the global cultural community that as promised in it�s cultural policy, the government of Goa is committed to usher in a cultural democracy.
There is also broad political support for TAG, which indicates that our politicians have also understood the power and potential of this theatre. The government may liberally support TAG in future but ultimately success of its� mission would depend on team spirit, team work and action plan of Goa�s small community of tiatrists. They need to sink their differences, if any, work together and lay down a strong foundation of TAG. TAG need to also work closely with Konkani Akademy, Konkani Bhasha Mandal, Konkani Sahitya Parishad, Asmitai Pratisthan, Dalgado Akademy, TSKK and XCHR, Kala Academy, Goa University, institutions of Government of India, Goan organisations abroad and the institutions promoting indigenous theatres in Europe and Asia. TAG need to aim for the status of UNESCO accredited national Academy in future. That would promote international collaborations and exchange of research scholars.



The centenary (1910-2010) of recorded Konkani music begins from this year. This is a historic occasion because Konkani singers and musicians have enriched India�s musical traditions. Frank Fernand, Chris Perry, Alfred and Rita Rose, Micael Martins, Jacint Vaz, Anthony Gonsalves, Sebastian De souza, Dattaram, N Datta, Emiliano Da Cruz, Padmashree Remo Fernandes and the Mageshkars (Lata, Asha, Hridaynath) are a few illustrative legendary names. People would love to know more about India�s most popular trumpeter, Antonio Xavier Vaz - fondly known as �Chic Chocolate.� Who can forget his music in �Albela�? TAG needs to celebrate the centenary of recorded Konkani music. An international archives of Konkani songs and music albums need to be established. A global biobibliographic, musico and filmographic database of all Konkani artists needs to be created. TAG could also publish an annual directory of Tiatr artists and yearbook on the tiatr industry. Formation of TAG adds a feather in cap of CM Mr Digambar Kamat. He would be remembered as a politician who understood the importance of Tiatr as a powerful creative cultural form and extended a hand of patronage to take a significant step towards making Goa a vibrant and flourishing cultural democracy. Let there be an all round applause for success of TAG.

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