The Fire Raisers, an English play is a satirical version of how living in our own ivory towers can be risky
The Fire Raisers, an English play is a satirical version of how living in our own Ivory Towers can be risky
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"The message of this play is universal. It is about ignoring violence. It is almost like a parable showing how we look the other way to avoid violence and how that does not help," says Phyllis Bose, the director of the play.
Phyllis, who believes that the narrative of this play is relevant and universal in its appeal throughout the world, says, "Each word in this play means something. It is a play that is meaningful at any given time and place."
Set in Germany, the story takes you to an unnamed city into the middle-class household of Biedermann, a businessman. The play begins with him reading a newspaper report on the increasing infiltration of arsons in the city and how they are using the common man to spread the violence. Biedermann is convinced that nothing of this sort will happen to him. He suffers from the typical delusion that the violence happening around him can't touch him. But soon the doorbell rings and two fire raisers in the guise of simpletons enter, requesting for shelter. Biedermann obliges by providing them food and a place in the attic. Soon the fire raisers start filling the attic with barrels of petrol but still the owner of the house does not protest.
"Biedermann is the face of the average man. He shows how after so many wars how still the common man has not learnt how to face mishaps. He has remained unchanged through decades," says Bose.
The story, which is taken forward by a Greek chorus, shows how to ward off evil and be friends with the devil.
Lucid, hilarious and absurd, the play reveals how humans choose to be oblivious of the impending danger by wrapping it with a cloak of fellowship. Watch out for a dramatic version of the sad fantasy that if you bribe the monster by feeding it, it won't eat you. Symbolic, moving and comical, the play is sure to make you think as you laugh out loud this weekend.
At Ranga Shankara
On July 3, 7.30 pm
July 4, 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm
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