### Can fear be converted into comedy? Can deadly Ghost ask for mercy?

An action packed play “Canterville”-(The haunted & Hilarious) staged at Birla Auditorium, Jaipur, kept audience spell bound from beginning till end. Majestic set with balcony, blending of melodious and haunting music, smart light effects clubbed with befitting actions created wow effect. If someone who missed the introduction of play would easily be convinced that professional actors are performing on professional stage. But these were the students of Disha Foundation, Jaipur( Centre for Special Education). Founder of Disha Mrs. P.N. Kavoori and co-founder Mrs. Mala Khaitan believed in nurturing abilities beyond limitation and creating meaningful opportunities for inclusion. This was candidly visible during the show of star performers.   

This was more than a performance, rather it was therapy ,empowerment and transformation. Such remarkable presentation was a hard work of 6 months where the students developed communication skills. Confidence and self expression, emotional connection, coordination and team work.   The objective was well achieved. All the children were deeply involved in their character and delivered their hundred percent.

This play was inspired by Oscar Wilde’s The Canterville Ghost, The play imbibed healthy humor, suspense and deep emotion.    “ Centerville- The Haunted and Hilarious”  revolves around the ancient Centerville Chase in England, which is haunted by the ghost of Sir Simon de Canterville, who has terrified generations of occupants. When the house is bought by the modern, practical Otis family from America, Sir Simon’s traditional haunting methods fail miserably. Instead of being frightened the Otises treat the Ghosts like an inconvenience- offering him joker shoes, cleaning up his bloodstains, and playing tricks on him. However, the story takes tender turn when Virginia, the kind hearted daughter, listens to Sir Simon’s sorrowful past. Virginia helps him perform a ritual that allows his soul to finally find peace. Beneath the comedy lies a touching story of forgiveness and compassion- ultimately reminding us that kindness has the power to heal even the deepest wounds. The entire production was curated by Chairperson Mrs Mala Khaitan and Director of Disha Foundation, Dr.Bharti Khunteta.

The Script, Adaptation ,Music , Design and Direction was successfully executed by Siraj Ahemd Bhati. Ruel Bhati assisted him in story development. Having minimum dialogue with optimum mime and movements made the presentation very engrossing. Music and lights were carefully done which gave impetus to the play. Siraj’s past experience of working with special students helped him a lot. Minute scene wise details and coordination with back stage left no space for confusion. Every character was displayed with high degree of perfection.    

He was assisted by Kamlesh Bairwa. There were five dances including Saraswati Vandana,  Ghanshyam Mahawar wonderfully choreographed all the dances in different styles. He was assisted by Seema Thakur. Children showcased their talent happily.

Entire team of children required training followed by rehearsal that was taken care by Sahil and supervised by Neelam.

Scenography was handled intelligently by Vichitra Singh, A sturdy set with balcony, dining table, big mirror, crockery were designed carefully. All the properties created magical effect. Moving of Ghost chair, rolling down of dining table crockery and bed sheet flying in air were very entertaining. Stage set up responsibility was handled by Vinod Jangid.   Quickly placing and removing stage property in dark was tedious job which was shared with high precision by Suman,Ummed,Jyoti,Aradhna,Sandeep and Harsh Dixit.

Costume designed by Manila Singh, Make up by Aslam Pathan and team created pleasing effect.  Handling a team of more than 40 students technical support was provided by a dedicated team comprising Pinky Kanwar,Vimal Meena,Shailendra Kumar and Palam Sound.

About 120 children with multiple disability such as cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder etc. participated and out of them 40 were on stage. Use of Masks, skates and other paraphernalia did not create any hassle, rather they were seen quite comfortable.

Mrs. P.N. Kavoori wanted to create the world for these children where they are understood, accepted and get opportunities to progress. Her vision was carried forward by the entire team of dedicated faculty and staff.           

 I witnessed that parents as well as other viewers were overjoyed by the spectacular performance of children. There was constant appreciation for all the acts.  

Though the show was witnessed by the packed auditorium but I recommend that there should be repeated shows of the play. I am fully confident that these children will make every audience happy and inspire others. Righty said by Dr. Bharti Khunteta “ This is our ongoing research project  called Theatre as Therapy.  They don’t need help ,but opportunity.”

My congratulations to team Disha and Rainbow.Hope to See these young Stars perform at many places. Best Wishes. 

 vilas janve.