New play looks at the trials and tribulations of reality TV
An all-star cast will be featured on July 12 at the Tower Theatre in Maradana, when the play “Math ekka natanna” (Dance with me) takes to the stage to discuss Sri Lanka’s reality TV culture and the life of one of its contestants. The play, directed by Deepal Aponso, features Jayalal Rohana, Rodney Warnakula, Rathnashila Perera, Gangu Roshanya and Aponso, with music by Navaratne Gamage.
Aponso, inspired by grievances about the method of reality TV shows in Sri Lanka, said that the play explores the trials and tribulations on the path to becoming a reality TV star. In the play, Nilupul and her young daughter Supipi seek to make a dream come true as the young girl works hard to succeed in a dance reality TV show. During their journey, they are met with a teacher who trains Supipi in dance but is in reality seeking to win her heart. They also meet with a middleman who offers to give Supipi media coverage in exchange for various demands. This is among other struggles such as SMS deals and political pressures.
Aponso, who studied at the New York Film Academy, said that while the intentions of reality TV are good, the path to creating these stars is not. “Reality TV shows recognise and reward talent in young people and that is a great thing. What is bad is the the way the talent is marketed and made into a brand. Furthermore, there are other middlemen on this path to success that make it a dishonourable venture,” Aponso said. Aponso, who was regularly exposed to shows such as American Idol while studying in the U.S, said absorbing concepts from other parts of the world is good but that they need to be tailored to fit Sri Lankan culture. Aponso’s experience in the industry and his conversations with young people in reality TV contests helped him direct the play which he hopes will leave a strong message with the audience. “We will be amused and we will be laughing at the way in which the cast portrays each character. But in the end, we will realise sadly that we are actually laughing at our own sisters and mothers,” Aponso pointed out.
Follow @timesonlinelk
comments powered by Disqus