Vidushi Mehra: Theatre often gets lost amid films, art and fashion

A bench was set in the heart of the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art in Delhi, with elegant white walls forming the perfect backdrop for a gripping dramatic performance. Vidushi Mehra, Samar Sarila and Oroon Das showcasing theatrically evocative scenes from Harold Pinter’s masterpiece, Betrayal, an award-winning play that navigates love, lies and the ensuing guilt in relationships that one holds close in their heart.Vidushi, who plays Emma and is the creator of the play, has returned to the stage after four years. She says, “Theatre sometimes gets lost between films, fashion and art. This endeavour aims to bring back theatre to the spotlight.” Exploring the complexities of relationshipsThe play explores the complexities of relationships, the fragility of trust and the repercussions of betrayal. “I realise betrayal comes hand-in-glove with love. Betrayal as a theme in India cuts across still waters,” says Vidushi. Oroon adds, “One realises that in this play each character is betraying and each one has been betrayed. It confounds your moral compass.” Deconstruct the archaic idea of theatre spacesNot a stage, but an art gallery was chosen for the play’s preview. Talking about the attempt to deconstruct the archaic idea of theatre spaces, Vidushi says, “Theatre can be set anywhere, anytime, and it transforms in that unique space. It is not a sad thing at all. The main play is set to take place in a space with food, drinks and more. It’s a different concept.” Madhu Kandhari, the producer of the play, adds, “Performing theatre is a different feeling altogether. You become one with your character. The plays and festival season is here, we look forward to the culture of theatre getting back in full form this year.”