Theatre
Resurrection: Portraying Ibsen as universal dramatist
Ershad Kamol
An illusion was created on the stage through a silhouette effect on the huge curtain, where several universal characters such as Hedda, Nora, Rebecca and others talk with Norwegian legendary playwright Henrik Johan Ibsen. In fact, the aim of the play Resurrection is to analyse the contemporary socio-political milieu of the world from 'Ibsen's eyes'. An imaginary world has been created through the conversation between Ibsen with his wife Susan as well as the characters of his plays to feature Henrik Ibsen's biography, philosophy and approach to art. Subsequently, Resurrection features what the great Norwegian playwright Ibsen, who has dealt with issues such as freedom, gender inequality and others, might have written if he were alive today. If Ibsen can write 'I'm free! I'm free! I'm free! My life in hostage is over', a century ago, then what might he have written while analysing the current world scenario, when 'freedom' has become a buzzword. In the course of the dramatisation, playwright-director of Resurrection Kamaluddin Nilu reconstructed a few of Henrik Ibsen's plays such as Hedda Gabler, A Doll's House, Emperor, Rosmorsoln, Enemy of the People, League of Youth, Catlina, John Gabriel, Boatman and When We Dead Awaken. However, when the aim of Resurrection is to analyse the contemporary world through the eyes of universal playwright Henrik Ibsen, why then does the chorus render 'When Ibsen 'was' our master'? As a director Kamaluddin Nilu has successfully created a surreal world. The smooth transition of dream and reality as well as handling of the 'play within the play' is appreciable. Innovative design, game with the curtain and several light effects, in the play, have made for an attractive production. Different ambiences have been created by projecting several light effects from different angles on a huge transparent curtain at the middle of the stage. The music composition was appreciated by the audience. M Shahadat Hossain was impressive in the role of Ibsen. However, he should try to articulate the English dialogue in the bilingual production. Abul Kalam Azad Shetu and Rahmatullah Basu were impressive. However, Sabina Sultana and Shipra Das gave monotonous performances. Centre for Asian Theatre staged the premiere show of Resurrection at the National Theatre Stage on April 17.
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A scene from the play |
