Over the past 8 months I have learnt so much from the Drama School Mumbai. I remember how I was so desperate to be a part of this course, when I applied in April. And today I look back at everything I have experienced and I thank the Almighty for this opportunity. My main aim was to gain more depth as an actor and that search with The Drama School, helped me learn so much more about myself.
The faculty is like a buffet. Serving such varieties…For instance,
Prabhat, who helped me realise how strong or how far you can push your body and understand that your mind has more strength than your muscle.
Yuki, through her work with the neutral masks helped me discover how your body can express various emotions. It was during her time that the ensemble of boys created a short performance on the dalits based on Namdeo Dhasals Cruelty. A piece that I will continue to cherish for life. It is through that very piece we formed a brotherhood and galvanised all our skills to potray the harsh realities of the Dalits.
Deepal, a man who will keep pushing you and may sometimes get on your nerves, but you can be certain its his way of getting the best out of you.
Deshik is probably the one I have learnt the most from. An actor himself, he simplifies all your road blocks with such ease. A real gem.
Ben Samuels, this man never gave up on me. It was during the rehearsals for our play Cutter Chee I was hospitalised for dengue. He made sure that I would still be part of his play which is something that I am really thankful for.
To have someone of Geetanjali’s caliber who is so established in Indian Theatre is a major plus point as It helped me learn so much from her through my one on one meetings as well as through her directions and constant guidance.
And last but not the least I would like to thank Jehan Manekshaw without whom this wouldn’t be possible. He has bestowed me with the opportunity to intern with Theatre Professionals and has also given me a lot of exposure with concern to various established institutions.
The TML’s were a major driving force in challenging yourself to create new art. This process not only helps you overcome various insecurities but also prepares you to dawn a stage for your final production with ease.
I am so proud of the fact that I am a part of ‘The Curious Climb Of Cutter Chee’ a completely devised play guided by Ben Samuels. The process of recreating Brecht’s Arthuro Ui in 1970’s gangster Mumbai was truly, an enlightening experience.
Based on all my experiences I hope to give back to The Drama School Mumbai something equivalent to the efforts vested in us. When I think about it today, there are a lot of emotions I feel towards the drama school but the most dominant one is gratitude. For helping me reach heights, I didn’t think were possible and giving me experiences which I don’t think I will ever forget.
