“Grease Yaka Returns“ to ride again
Magazine cover and inside pix by Pramila Samarakoon
The thematic sequel by AnandaDrama to the bilingual play Grease Yaka which was originally staged in 2014, Grease Yaka Returns (GYR) will captivate audiences once again at Lionel Wendt with two shows on July 7 at 3.30p.m. and 7.00p.m. The prequel which focused on the evolving of societal fears, set the pace for GYR as the consequences of those fears are focused and played on.
After performing at the 47th Annual State Drama Festival earlier this year and being exposed to a ‘relatively’ new audience, Directors Nishantha de Silva and Rajitha Hettiarachchi felt that it was time to stage their trailblazing play ‘Grease Yaka Returns’ once again.
Directors Nishantha de Silva and Rajitha Hettiarachchi.
The dark comedy that took home nine awards at the State Drama Festival for Best Play, Best Direction, Best Original Script while also receiving a commendation for Set Design amongst others. The play is known for its ability to entertain audiences. Praised for its tackling of contemporary issues that are not generally aired out in the open- GYR is a timely piece of work.
“We feel that the play examines important issues that are especially relevant in today’s socio-political context,” the duo share as they talk about why they choose now to bring back the production.
The Directors’ revealed that one of the main challenges they had staging this particular show was to keep things fresh for the cast as they had performed it a few times. Thus, audiences can expect key changes to the script and direction of the play.
“The other challenge we had was in terms of character and storyline—we had to maintain some level of realism in the play because each character and the various elements of the story reflect our society and we wanted to be true to it.” Nishantha and Rajitha thought it crucial to find the balance between the lighting, costumes, choreography and music — the elements that create the world of the play — and ensuring it complemented the script whilst added to the story without overpowering any aspect individually.
When asked about why they think GYR draws audiences and has a huge following they deigned to respond simply with, “It’s bilingualism and mix of outright humour with incisive commentary. The underlying message of Grease Yaka Returns is more important now than ever.”
Tickets for “Grease Yaka Returns” will be available from July 1 at Lionel Wendt. Tickets are priced at Rs. 2000, Rs. 1500, Rs. 800 and Rs. 500 (balcony). For more information on tickets, please call 011 269 5794.
State Drama Festival awards
Cast at rehearsals.Pic by Sameera Weerasekera