Madurai’s Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College set to stage Shakespeare’s ‘The Merchant of Venice’

Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College in Madurai stages Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice' after a five-year hiatus.

Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College in Madurai is gearing up to stage its annual play after a hiatus of five years. King’s Theatre, the college’s drama crew, is set to perform Shakespeare’s ‘The Merchant of Venice’. The event marks the return of theatrical productions at the college. “The themes of justice, mercy, and prejudice in the play will resonate with the audience, making it relevant and impactful,” says Sarojaa V Kumar, assistant professor of English and one of the two directors of the play.

“College plays help identify and showcase students’ talents. ‘The Merchant of Venice’ will provide us the opportunity to utilise the abilities of our people,” says L M Joseph Paul Bezaleel, assistant professor of English (SF) and the director of the play. “We wanted to present a lively play that includes music, dance, humour, and action to enrich our audience’s experience,” he adds.

According to A Ramasubbiah, the principal of the college, the institution is celebrating its 50th academic year with the production. The specially-designed set will slide, twist, and turn to create four distinct settings: Venice, the court scene, Shylock’s home, and a garden. “The set weighs more than 1700 kilograms, and we are using over 300 lights. Additionally, our team has composed its own songs and music,” the director says.

With extensive experience in drama production and working with various theatre groups, both directors are aware of the role of the backstage crew. “Our students from both UG and PG English programmes have come together to participate in various activities like welding, painting, shopping for accessories, prop-making, and even marketing. The process is like a hands-on workshop,” adds Joseph. Actors and volunteers also receive guidance from professionals and experts from across Tamil Nadu.

Open to the public on January 11, 5pm, at Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College. Call 9789789224, 6374395521 for details.