The Auroville Theatre Group recently presented their latest play, A fire: The spiritual journey of a nomad, at the Kalabhumi’s Cripa auditorium in Puducherry. The play portrays the profound impact of war on humanity and explores the relentless pursuit of hope amidst chaos and suffering. The story revolves around the experiences of a family during World War II, delving into the pain and trauma they endure. The narrator in the play, reminiscing about his childhood, reflects upon the nomadic life he had to embrace after losing his home. Despite all the trials and tribulations, he has managed to keep his spirit alive.
The play is an adaptation of the French story Un Fu (A Fire) written by Aurovilian Pavitra (Pascal Estrem). Playwright and director Jill Navarre, along with Roger Harris and Sukanya Panda, have translated the story into English and brought it to life on stage. The setting is 1942 France, and the narrative culminates in Auroville, a township near Puducherry with a French connection. The play beautifully depicts the journey of the soul through the dark nights of the Holocaust, eventually finding a new life in Auroville.
The play opens with a darkened stage resonating with the sounds of cries and wails as people are brutally beaten. Frightened and helpless refugees flee in every direction, trying to escape the horrors of war. Amidst the atmosphere of confusion and chaos, the narrator emerges as a child, recollecting the past. The play highlights haunting moments of Nazi Germany holding two million French prisoners-of-war, the French police detaining Jews and political refugees in Nazi concentration camps, and the mass murder committed in Auschwitz.
To enhance the portrayal of these unsettling images, the play cleverly incorporates audio-visual techniques, creating a lifelike experience for the audience. At certain points, the audience is even invited to join the actors on stage and outside the auditorium, where selected scenes take place. This innovative approach adopted by the director aids in a better understanding of the play’s theme.
The language used in the play is rich in metaphors, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. It reinforces the power of art and the significance of memory in connecting people and eras. The title itself serves as a reminder to keep the fire of hope burning amidst the darkest times.
Reeshabh Rawat shines in the role of the narrator, captivating the audience with his impeccable diction, profound emotions, and expressive body language. Lalit Khatana’s choreography of acrobatic movements heightens the impact of certain scenes, leaving a lasting impression. Sugumar Shanmugam’s light design also adds to the overall visual appeal of the play. However, some felt that a background score would have further enhanced the experience.
In conclusion, A fire: The spiritual journey of a nomad is an emotionally cathartic play that tells an inspiring story of resilience, hurt, and healing. It serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable human spirit and the power of hope even in the darkest of times.
