MELBOURNE
The Goan Association of New Zealand (GOANZ) recently presented ‘Ghathki’, a powerful tiatr written by renowned Goan playwright and tiatrist Rico Rod.
Staged at the Bruce Ritchie Performing Arts Centre in Auckland, the production attracted an audience of over 330 Konkani theatre enthusiasts and supporters for an evening of drama, music and entertainment.
The event commenced with a warm welcome delivered in Konkani by young Gabriella (Gaby) Coutinho, followed by an English welcome address from Yvette Asthana, setting the tone for an enjoyable evening celebrating Goan culture and theatre.
Directed by Paul D'Souza, ‘Ghathki’ explored themes of relationships, trust and betrayal, keeping audiences captivated with its compelling storyline and strong performances.
Adding to the production's appeal was the innovative use of digital technology, with striking 3D backdrop projections depicting a traditional Goan home, a Mumbai residence, an office setting and a hospital. These visually immersive images enabled seamless scene changes while reducing the need for elaborate stage sets, bringing a contemporary dimension to a traditional art form.
Live music further enhanced the theatrical experience and was led by jazz pianist and composer Ben Fernandez (keyboards), Everard Fernandes (bass guitar), Joseph Alexander (drums), and Joseph Pinto and Judith Pinto (violin). Together, the musicians created a vibrant and engaging soundtrack that complemented the drama unfolding on stage.
The cast featured Agnelo Mascarenhas, Alarico Fernandes, Aninha (Annie) D'Souza, Carmen D'Souza, Francis Coutinho, Joel Pereira, Paul D'Souza, Sushila Pinto and Sylvester D'Souza. Comedians Agnelo Mascarenhas and Lazarus Serrao kept the audience entertained with their humour, providing moments of laughter throughout the evening.
The programme also showcased the talents of GOANZ's younger generation. Allegra D'Souza, a jazz vocalist and second-year Engineering Science student, delivered outstanding renditions of ‘Mogan Poddlim’ and ‘Tuzo Mog’. GOANZ youth members Malaika Pereira, Ariane Cordeiro and Gianna Cordeiro performed popular Portuguese songs including ‘Cadiza Za Za’/ ‘Olha Policia’ and ‘En Costa Tua Cabecinha’, as well as the well-loved ‘Red Rose’/ ‘Kalliz Zata Boom Bang’.
The behind the scenes crew that kept everything running smoothly included Michelle Pereira (sound effects), Bert Cordeiro (lighting effects), Joanna Pinto (videography), Samantha Rodrigues (Photography), Mario Pinto and Joel Pereira (stagehands). A special mention to the volunteers and ushers who seamlessly worked to ensure everyone was parked and seated in time for the Tiatr to start.
‘Ghathki’ received an enthusiastic response from the audience, reflecting the enduring popularity of Konkani tiatr among the Goan community in New Zealand.
The successful production also underscored GOANZ's ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting Goan language, culture and performing arts for future generations while embracing modern technology to enhance the audience experience.
Speaking at the final curtain call, Joel Pereira, President of GOANZ, thanked the entire village of people involved in making ‘Ghathki’ a success. He emphasised that events like this are a result of countless hours of hard work, dedication, and the unwavering commitment of many people working together behind the scenes.
He also highlighted that GOANZ would love to see many more youth and younger children involved in GOANZ events and activities moving forward. Director Paul D’Souza also thanked everyone involved and called for more youth and youngsters to be involved in Tiatr’s to come.
