Tiatr review: 'Final Order'

The curtains unfold to a scene in the cemetery wherein Allan (Ulhas Tari), a baker by profession, mourns the untimely loss of his wife Elcy, who passed away after a battle with cancer. His daughter Pearl (Sheena Gracias) is also present, grieving the loss of her mother.

Rohan (Willy Silveira) encounters his old college mate, Alisha (Meenakshi) in the garden and they share a few sweet moments with each other. Alisha openly expresses her love for Rohan, and though he once had a soft spot for her, he tells her that his heart now belongs to someone else.

While Allan is busy with his work and Pearl assists her father in running his bakery successfully, Alisha drops in to meet her college mate. As they exchange fond memories, Pearl confesses her unspoken love for her college mate, Allan.

As Pearl seeks Alisha’s help to get closer to Allan, Alisha suddenly feels dizzy, prompting Allan to rush his daughter to the hospital. The doctor, Rosario de Benaulim, attending to Pearl, informs Allan that she is suffering from leukemia. The doctor consoles Allan and explains five steps to help Pearl overcome her illness. He adds that the final step — ‘stem cell donation’ — is the most effective way to give her a new lease on life.

The search for stem cell donors for Pearl is underway. At one particular ‘Stem Cell Donation and Awareness Camp,’ following a detailed explanation of the process, many volunteers step forward to register – including Rohan.

Rohan’s stem cells match Pearl’s, bringing immense joy to the father and daughter. But when Pearl’s doctor steps in, a shocking new revelation discourages Rohan from going ahead with his plans to save her. What happens next makes the second half of the presentation truly unmissable.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Willy Silveira’s 10th Lenten production, Final Order, explores a highly relevant societal theme, focusing on cancer patients. The presentation is filled with suspense and unexpected twists, highlighting the challenges faced by many affected by this dreaded illness. It also sheds light on the treatment options provided through a non-profit organisation.

There are fine performances on stage from the cast. As usual, Ulhas Tari stands tall as the caretaker and baker. He is ably assisted by Meenakshi, Sheena, Willy and Alijoy. Sheena shines as the victim of cancer. Meenakshi, too, plays her role well as a nurse and good friend of Sheena and Willy. Baltazar Pontes and Rosario de Benaulim are equally good in their roles as sarpanch and doctor, respectively.

The concluding scene is worth the watch on stage as the message – about the final order coming from God – is conveyed loud and clear.

LAUGHTER & MUSIC

In the comic acts, comedians Joyel, Agnelo, Rizton, and Rizma come together to deliver a performance filled with clean, entertaining comedy.

In the category of songs, Alijoy and Sheena step on stage for the opening song, followed by solos from Rosario de Benaulim, Alijoy, Peter de Arambol, Olga, Rizma and Baltazar Pontes. There’s a duo by Rosario de Benaulim and Baltazar; and a trio by Alijoy, Olga and Peter de Arambol.

A duet and a choral went amiss in the production. Young musicians offstage have provided good live music, thus accompanying all the singers on stage. 

The stage design is by Pedro Santan, while the lighting has been skillfully managed by Jaison.

DETAILS

• Tiatr: Final Order


• Cast: Sheena, Meenakshi, Ulhas Tari, Rosario de Benaulim, Baltazar Pontes, comedian Joyel, Agnelo, Rizton, Rizma


• Director: Willy Silveira


• Band: Yeslon, Reylan (first, second trumpet), Benny (keyboard), Juman (bass), Mauvin (drums)


• Stage/lights: Pedro Santan, Jaison