Goan Musical show organized by Kuwait Konknni Mogi (KKM) on 17th April 2015 regaled a capacity crowd at Kuwait Medical Association hall.

Apart from a decent hall, there was nothing striking on display like the usual mega musical shows staged in hi-tech Kuwait. However, the artistes that performed in the show entertained everyone and captured hearts of the audiences.

Full credit goes to Kuwait Konknni Mogi that was instrumental in arranging the show at a short notice with the sole aim of entertaining Konkani lovers. Incidentally, the date happened to be the 123rd birth-anniversary of Tiatr. Called one of the most vibrant forms of modern theatre, the tiatr strikes a deep chord with Kuwait audiences any day. Ofcouse, the credit for popularity of Goan drama and music in Kuwait goes to legendary stars such as the Mendes Brothers, Cajetan de Sanvordem, Jose Rod, the late Rosary Ferns, etc, and many others.

It is overwhelming to see the legacy being kept alive by mushrooming groups like KKM and its members even to the extent of suffering losses in hosting the events.

CHIEF GUEST AND CELEBRATION OF TIATR ANNIVERSARY

The evening was attended by Mrs. Elvira D’Souza, an enthusiastic lover of Goan and Konkani events. She was welcomed with a musical parade escorted by KKM member Gennifer Marshall and joined by all other participating artistes on stage.

Francis de Verna, one of the senior Goan artistes in Kuwait was also present.

Both the guests were presented with a bouquet of flowers at the hands of little children. Fr. Franco Pereira, parish priest of Salmiya church was in attendance too. Elvira amazed everyone by speaking in Konkani.

A cake was cut to commemorate the anniversary of Tiatr. Felix Dias led the musical troupe in singing a ‘Tiatr-birthday’ song. A moment of silence was observed to remember all artistes who supported tiatr and have passed away.

It should be noted that Goan Tiatr took birth in Bombay back in 1892. The unique dramatic form of Tiatr has continued through the ages ever since the staging of the first drama known as ‘Italian Bhurgo’.

MUSIC AND ‘KANTARAM’

The musical show consisted of about 20 flamboyant songs and 4 short skits. It was a show that kept the audience glued to their seats till the end.

Kuwait’s evergreen, magical Maestro Shahu provided music single-handedly which is no easy task given the ‘mandates’ of amateur artistes.

The show began with a flamboyant ‘chouko’ sung by KKM members Gennifer Marshall, Agnelo Rebello, Salazar Pires de Menezes and Domnic Fernandes.

Baltazar Pontes, Felix Dias and Marlette Fernandes sang ‘Amchi Panchayat’. Marlette, a new face on Kuwait stage looked glamorous and fluent in her singing. The trio was well applauded.

Micky Fernandes’ song ‘Vell’ on the importance of time was a thought provoking one, while Gaudencio’s song ‘Kuwaitchem Jivit’ and commanding solos by Milagres Cardozo, Peter Ferns, Baltazar Pontes were greatly applauded by the audience. Baltazar Pontes in particular was excellent in poise and singing, his lyrics too were very meaningful.

The Morais family of Agusto-Adela-Gaynelle and Gracy Morais sang a beautiful song ‘Oh Goa’ which was set on a foot-tapping music by Shahu. They captured everyone’s hearts. It was an incredible song that classified the reputation of Agusto-Gracy as established singers, and revealed the dancing flairs and beautiful voices of the young girls - Adela and Gaynelle as well.

Braz de Parra and Lawry Miranda, two of the well-known artistes in Kuwait, were at their best in their song ‘Bhikari’. The outfit of the two talented singers was splendid. Braz and Lawry had another dazzling comedy song accompanied by Manu de Mandur, Salu Faleiro and Delilah that encored a repeat.

Esparansa and Gasper Crasto’s ‘Miracle’ song on a new tune was highly captivating according to the audience. Felix Dias sang an innovative rap style song, purely diverse from the typical Goan rhythms.

Gennifer’s solo ‘Onath Bhurgim’ was delicately sung, while Peter D’Cruz, Seby de Calangute and Milagres Cardozo’s political trio with matching dress-code was a treat to watch. It was called for a repeat performance. Peter and Seby had a another song dressed as Arabs.

Jacinto Noronha sang 2 solos, a decent one and a comedy; both were equally good. Alberto Azavedo’s comedy solo too was well accepted. Zelia Rodrigues sang ‘Fashion ani Make-up’ to great perfection and style.

COMEDY SKITS

The Comedy Skits were enacted by Comedian Nelson, Salu Faleiro, Manuel Gonsalves, Roque, Gracy Morais and Carmo Santos.

The short skits had enough fun to bring laughter to the audience. Comedian Nelson with his peculiar garments squeezed out enough laughter just by his presence on stage. Carmo Santos, who features in the famed movie ‘Nachom-ia Kumpasar’ made his presence felt too - demonstrating his skills as a stage actor; while the more recognized Salu Faleiro and Gracy Morais were flowing as ever.

An overwhelming response with thunderous applause from the audience for every song was a testimony of how much people love Goan songs and comedy. A super sound system was provided by DJ Cheslee D’Souza. The whole event was captured on camera by Rivon Gomes.

Gasper Crasto, Felix Dias and Domnic Fernandes compered the show.

Before the final curtains Domnic Fernandes, one of the brains behind the show thanked everyone and spoke on the objectives of KKM and their desires to provide entertainment to Goans living in Kuwait.

While praising his members, sponsors and guests, he said, “It is an enormous task to organize shows in Kuwait with all the restrictions and limitations in recent times. However, our love for Konkani and the encouragement that we receive from people makes us to put all our efforts.”

KKM has been in the limelight for a while now as one of Goan diaspora communities keeping the Konkani language vibrant. KKM members and specially the main coordinator Shri. Domnic Fernandes deserves full credit for organizing a memorable event.