Opening Scene: "In your channel, our voice should also be accommodated. Those who neglect Kannada culture, their tongue should be cut. They should know the value of silence," this was the message sent across during a protest by a Pro-Kannada organisation near a Radio Station office. In addition to the protest, the protestors manhandle the in-charge of the Radio station, Devaraj, breaking his hand.
This scene was from 'Radio Static', the first Kannada drama written by Prakash Belavadi. Successfully enacted by the members of the Abhinaya Taranga troupe and directed by Raghu Shivamogga, a graduate from Ninasam, during the 'Nataka Bangalore 2012' held at Kalakshetra recently, it was a humourous enactment with several messages.
The play is about Devaraj, an educated youth who dreams of running a Radio Channel. A rich industrialist, Chandrashekhar, helps financially and Devaraj becomes the head of the channel. On functioning successfully, a radio jockey, Bhaskar joins the team.
His perception that people belonging to the upper class listen to their programmes and not the common man, make him promote certain programmes, which does not go well with many people. The story goes on from then with interesting turn of events. But the best part of the drama was that the serious messages are conveyed in a humourous and entertaining manner.
All actors have performed well though there were some glitches. After 40 per cent of the drama, the show goes on at a snail's pace. In the cast, the role of Police Commissioner, Jyothi Prakash by Kumar Gowda, Kamala's part by Priyanka, Sevanthi part by Shalini, Devaraj's part by H K Manu and Chandrashekhar's role by Raghav were efficient. The role of Bhaskar by Sridhar was a little irritating and that of Chris by Manju lacked confidence.
The role of a pro-Kannada organisation's leader played by Ranjith was excellent. The lighting effects by C S Charan, also a graduate from Ninasam, was awesome. On the whole, the play by Abhinaya Taranga troupe was worth a watch.