A delightful, century-old musical comedy with over 30 songs

As Vedike Naatakashaale’s first batch of theatre students graduate this weekend, the diploma-holders are performing renowned playwright T P Kailasam’s acclaimed play, Namkampini. The play, written nearly a hundred years ago, is a musical comedy – one that holds a special status in Kannada theatre history.
“After a two-year course, this weekend will see our first batch of students getting their diplomas.Following the ceremony, the graduation play will be showcased for which the students have chosen Namkapini,” shares Ritwik Simha, co-founder of the institute.
Lasting over 90 minutes, the drama that is set in the ‘60s begins when a theatre group called Namkapni is about to perform a play – Surpanakha Kulavilasa. The comical blunders that occur when the play is being staged results in boisterous comedy. The play features over 18 actors and has music done by V Manohar, and sound and costumes by Jasleen Ritwik Simha.
“This is a play within a play – a unique format which is very engaging. It's a fun-filled musical comedy with nearly 30 songs besides various little compositions and a lot of fun elements. The play is also heavily satirical. There is a Sootradhar who is pointing out what’s right and what’s wrong, judging the good and bad constantly. All the mistakes that happen during the play within the play lead to all the comedy. Besides, the costumes, the songs, the drama – everything adds to the whole fun aspect of the play,” adds Ritwik who is also directing the production.