Modern Mythos

“Buffini has tried to bring together modern politics and ancient myths to create a contemporary fable,which is relevant in the current times,” says Ruth. The city of Thebes closely draws from the west African country of Liberia,its history and the two Liberian civil wars.

The play opens with the discovery of a warlord’s body by a militia sergeant and the two child soldiers under his command. What follows is a dark and humorous tale interweaving the Greek myths and the present times. “The same things that were happening in ancient Greece,are happening in the modern times too. Buffini has touched upon the topics of economic colonialism by showing how the rich and powerful country of Athens comes to the rescue of Thebes after war,a time when there is devastation everywhere. During the play we come to know that there’s always a price-tag involved in taking help from the stronger nations,” explains Ruth,who adds that “the thought that the viewers take away from the play is that,‘Hasn’t the mankind learned from their mistakes?”

The play,also has interesting sub-plots,like that of a love triangle,between a blind doctor and two sisters. “Even though the plot of the play might sound sombre,the play is quite humorous,” says Ruth. “With global terrorism and the rise of rebel groups like the ULFA and Naxals in India,I think most viewers in India can relate to Thebes,” adds Ruth.

Welcome to Thebes will be staged at National School of Drama,Bhagwandas Road,till March 21. Contact: 23389402