Theatre enthusiasts in Pune have a compelling reason to celebrate this season. The much-anticipated second edition of the World of Performing Arts (WOPA) Winter Festival is set to commence, offering a sophisticated theatrical experience that prioritises substance over spectacle.
An Intimate Opening with 'Autobiography'
The festival will raise its curtain with the English-language play 'Autobiography', directed by the renowned Lillette Dubey. The opening performance is scheduled for 6.30 pm on January 11 at the Creaticity Amphitheatre in Yerawada. Dubey will share the stage with a stellar cast including Denzil Smith, Suchitra Pillai, and Sarah Hashmi.
Parul Mehta, co-founder of WOPA, emphasised the festival's mission to engage Pune's discerning audience. "Pune audiences have a deep-rooted passion for theatre, which is among the best in our country. WOPA's mission is to nurture that passion, inspire audiences, provoke dialogue, and foster a vibrant theatre-going culture. This festival is one step toward keeping that engagement alive and continuous," she stated.
Exploring the Elusive Nature of Truth
At its core, 'Autobiography' is a profound exploration of memory and perception. Adapted from Mahesh Elkunchwar's influential Marathi play 'Atmakatha', the narrative challenges the idea of a single, absolute truth. "Everyone fashions the truth in their own way," explained Dubey. "We remember things in a way that feels comfortable to us. The same incident can be seen very differently by two people, and both perspectives can be completely valid."
This philosophical underpinning shapes the entire production. The play employs a non-linear structure, weaving seamlessly between time, memory, and fiction. It presents the conflicting truths of its protagonist, her husband, and her sister, following the emotional fallout of a betrayal that spans decades. "What audiences seem to enjoy is that every perspective carries validity. Nobody is entirely right, and nobody is entirely wrong," Dubey added, highlighting the play's nuanced emotional landscape.
A Personal Revival for Director Dubey
For Dubey, this production marks a meaningful return to a cherished project. She first staged 'Autobiography' in the mid-1990s but halted it abruptly. "I always knew I wanted to return to it. It was far too good a play to be left unfinished," she confessed. Revisiting the script after decades, she found its themes had "aged beautifully," confirming its enduring relevance for contemporary audiences.
Despite working with long-time collaborators, Dubey maintained a rigorous creative process. "Comfort should never mean complacency. I like to push actors, whether experienced or new. Everyone stretched themselves, and the results are beautiful. It's a piece I want to keep alive and evolving," she remarked. The festival's signature focus on intimate, idea-driven theatre promises to offer Pune's culture lovers a winter of reflection and compelling artistic dialogue.
