MELBOURNE
After an absence of nearly seven years, the curtains are set to rise once again on Goan theatre in Auckland as the Goan Association of New Zealand (GOANZ) revives the beloved tradition of Tiatr with the staging of ‘Ghathki’.
The Tiatr ‘Ghathki’ will be staged at the Bruce Ritchie Performing Arts Centre, Massey High School, 274 Don Buck Road, Henderson, on July 25 at 5.30 pm.
The production has brought together experienced Tiatr personalities living in Auckland, including director and actor Paul D'Souza and playwright, actor and comedian Agnelo Mascarenhas. The cast includes Agnelo Mascarenhas, Annie D'Souza, Alarico Fernandes, Carmen D'Souza, Francis Coutinho, Paul D'Souza, Joel Pereira, Sushila Pinto and Sylvester D'Souza.
Their experience and passion have played a significant role in shaping the production for New Zealand audiences.
GOANZ also acknowledged the commitment of its volunteer cast and backstage team, who have spent months attending weekly rehearsals, organising venues, sourcing affordable props and equipment, and managing the many logistical aspects involved in staging a full-length Tiatr.
Adding a musical dimension to the production is renowned Goan composer, arranger and pianist Ben Fernandez, who is leading the musical direction for ‘Ghathki’.
More than just a theatrical performance, the production represents a renewed commitment to preserving Goan culture, language and identity for future generations.
According to GOANZ, the decision to revive Tiatr came as the association sought to bring something fresh and meaningful to its annual Goan cultural celebrations, traditionally held around the Feast of São João in late June or early July.
"Over the past two to three years, we've successfully organised cultural evenings featuring Goan and Portuguese songs and dances. This year, however, we wanted to do something different. Tiatr is such an integral part of our Goan identity and cultural expression, and many members of our community have longed to reconnect with it, especially those who grew up watching performances in Goa and Mumbai," GOANZ said.
The association noted that bringing the Tiatr ‘Ghathki’ to Auckland is both a celebration of Goan heritage and a renewal of an important cultural tradition for the diaspora.
"Distance, resources and timing all present challenges, but the overwhelming support from the community has motivated us to make this revival a reality," GOANZ said.
Written by the late celebrated Tiatrist Rico Rod, ‘Ghathki’ explores timeless themes of passion, love and betrayal. The play examines trust, relationships, choices and consequences while encouraging audiences to reflect on the complexities of human nature.
GOANZ expressed gratitude to Rico Rod's family, particularly his daughter Gladys in Melbourne and son Victor Rodrigues in Mumbai, for entrusting them with the rights to stage the Tiatr.
Without revealing too much of the storyline, organisers describe ‘Ghathki’ as an emotional and thought-provoking production that entertains while encouraging audiences to reflect on the impact of their actions on others.
Beyond entertaining audiences, GOANZ hopes the production will inspire younger generations of Goans born and raised in New Zealand to embrace their cultural heritage.
"For younger Goans, Tiatr is much more than theatre. It is a living connection to their roots, the Konkani language, Goan humour and our values. Preserving and promoting it is essential to keeping our cultural identity alive across generations," the association said.
Organisers also highlighted the participation of several teenagers, who will perform songs during the traditional pordde (curtain change) intervals. GOANZ hopes their involvement will encourage more young people to engage with Tiatr, either as audience members or future performers.
As Auckland prepares to welcome the return of Tiatr after seven years, Ghathki promises not only an evening of entertainment but also a celebration of Goan heritage, community spirit and the enduring power of storytelling.
