Dattani's 30 Days In September

Hmm...

2004-08-31T05:10:00.000-07:00

How different it is to actually watch a play on stage than just reading it as a text! That is exactly how I feel towards the whole unique experience of reading Mahesh Dattani’s “Thirty Days Of September” and personally watching it being staged at the Actor Studio, Bangsar Shopping Complex.

When I read the text, the element of mystery kept me going on and on until I end up reading the play twice. I built up pictures and images in my mind as to how the acts and scenes would be performed on stage. There is the aged, weary, timid-looking Shanta; the young, aggressive, modern and sexy-looking Mala; the handsome, young, soft spoken Deepak; and the old, fierce-looking Uncle. I also found out about some apparent issues discussed in the play. But, what I thought was the most important issue in the drama was the effects of child rape to the victims. How different people cope differently with the issue is shown in the words, actions and silence of Shanta and Mala. And I believed that what I would watch in the theatre would confirm my judgement. Besides that, I was also very interested in the way the acting space would be put up for Mr. Dattani referred to four distinct sections of acting space in his stage directions.

Well, I was both right and wrong. After watching the play, talking to the cast of the play (both the actors and the director), participating in this blog and reading Mr. Dattani’s response to the students’ views, I find that the issue is not child rape but child sexual abuse, and the characters were very much portrayed as ‘everyday’, typical working class adults of the real world. There was not much difference of age in their looks except for the Uncle. This certainly sends a message that anyone could be Shanta, Mala and/or Deepak in reality. Looks are often deceiving, and Mala, who is portrayed as a very successful young career woman, shows how people’s personal background (i.e. what they have experienced in life, especially if they actually have traumas) can be hidden behind the clothes that they wear, their personalities and many more... And... oh! The acting space? Wow! The way the director sets the stage with minimal props and no particular boundaries between the sections just amazes me. Before, I thought that the sections would be lined up horizontally. But, the director’s creative way of setting the stage really proves how creativity has no limits.

All in all, I understand now that by only reading a play (text), one’s understanding and perception of a play could be very limited. One could only explore the play in what his or her mind allows him or her to. This is due to the fact that readers comprehend with the help of what they bring to the text. In the case of my studying Mahesh Dattani’s “Thirty Days Of September”, watching the staged play has helped a lot. However, what help me most are the discussions I had with my friends, lecturer, the playwright, the actors and the director. As we listen to what other people have to say, we analyse our own conceptions and realise that there is definitely more to something than just what we think about it.

-hidaya aluwi (108864)

Relecting on the multidimensional experience of reading Dattani's '30 Days in September'

2004-08-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

Honestly, it is kind of a lot of work as we dont have internet access to our rooms in college. Although we have to rush to cyber cafe every week trying to catxh with the assignments, exams, tests, etc, but thankfully i managed to do this blogspot and hopefully it will make dr edwin happy. But critically, the whole process is new and fresh, and also interesting. It will perhaps be easier if all students have internet access individually and we can write a more interesting and thoughtful posts.
Reading the script before watching the play is kind of risk taking for the production of the play as it will take away the surprise as the audience can know what will happen next. But i think that this is a challenge for the director to direct a more interesting and not something that is predictable.But studying the script first is good, as it will help us more in understanding the play.
Watching the theatre was great, although i was not truly interested in the play, but i still think that watching it was a good and enriching experience for me, as i discovered many aspects of theatre that i did not know, like the stage's settings for instance. The colour purple created a nice sensuous feeling and also the god Krishna, that looked modern and different, that instanly captivated the audience's attention.
The actors were good, especially the man who brought the character The Man came to life. He was amusing and comical, he was definitely an attention grabber on that particular day.
The play was nice, nothing intresting or unique, but it was safe and nice.
The whole process was great and different, and not typical at all. This is what i need to keep me awake in the afternoon:typing a blogspot.

khairul alia
109059

my feedback after the play

2004-08-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

The setting of the play was terrific.It actually created the aura of sensuality and mystery..or anything of that sort. But when the actors started acting, i really prefer reading the script while lying on my bed rather than sitting on that comfy chair of actor studio bangsar. Truthfully, the play failed the reach to my expectations. It was dull, not at all experimental, very typical, and i was just bored.
Why was it boring?What was my expectations? My expectations were that since that i've read script of the play, i was hoping for the director to actually do something that is different fromwhat was expected from the readers. The way of the acting, the intonation, the presentation as a whole is so predictable. I was trying hard not to fall asleep the other day while watching the theatre.
The issue that was raised in the play was a global issue so perhaps some of the viewers could relate themselves to it. The actors failed to tug the strings of my emotions as i did not feel that i was connected to them. I was just hoping something that is more dramatic and different. But i got neither.
The play was nothing of a spectacular. It was just normal and below average.

khairul alia
109059

My Feedback After The Play

2004-08-29T21:32:00.000-07:00

Mahesh Dattani done a good job by having this play organized in malaysia. So far i found that reading the play before the play should not be carried out. This is because during the play i never felt what was going to happen after this but instead of that i already knew the next dialogue the actors going to say. However the play was sligthy different from the reading material. Especially the ending of the play.
On the other hand the talk which was handled after the play by all of the actors brought me and my other friends to make sense why they have such play. In this play we were brought to gender issues, where children are harrasted and leave a big impact in their life. Women cannot voice their problems to anybody. In this play we leant why was Shanta quite all the while, and was running from the fact. why she was avoiding all the time when ever Mala wanted to tell her problems. Shanta decided to be silent and to forget everything as there were nigthmares. Mala was another victim but she never kept silence but keep on asking for the truth to be said out by her mother to Deepak in front of her uncle. She did this because Deepak was in love with her and wants to marry Mala.
i really enjoyed during and after the play and i know that this experince will remain forever fresh in my mind. :)

gursharan kaur kartar singh
111431

My Feedback After The Play

2004-08-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

Learn a lot from it

2004-08-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

This is a response that we supposed to write about what we actually learned from the play 30 Days in September by Mahesh Dattani. If we look this from a female point of view, this play is a very informative one. It actually teaches you about the cruelty of life and how dangerous life it is for women out there.

From my point of view, the play really makes me wonder how weird a woman can sometimes be. As a man, we usually view life in a simple yet practical way while women, do things in a very hard way, claiming that they did it carefully but instead, they do it foolishly.

This situation can be seen clearly by the two female characters in the play, Mala and her mother, Shanti. Both of them were raped by the same men when they were still young and innocent. Mala try to get over her sadness by being flirtatious with men and continue to hate her uncle while her mother, pretends that as if there’s nothing happen and carry on with her life by dedicating most of her time to her God. Why don’t they just report it to the police? But instead, make their life miserable by trying to ‘overcome’ the experience.

Some men do have this kind of sexual disorder that actually make them attract to small kids. There are also fetish people who like collecting women’s undergarments but, I can assure you that those people are only a minority. We men are not stupid, besides, what’s the point of smelling other people’s underwear?

Lastly, the play really makes me think that woman should be more careful in whatever they did. We never know what awaits us out there so be alert. Don’t trust people with all your heart and please, be more sensible in whatever you did. Think before you act!

Zaki Omar
TESL 5
107828

After the play

2004-08-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

Finally, we all have finished watching 30 Days in September by Mahesh Datani. Really, I do not know what to say but I gave my full credits to all the actor and actresses, especially the lady who plays Mala (forgot her name…). Her performance was outstanding and breathtaking. Just like I expect, the play went on just like I thought it would. Pardon me if I’m not good in judging theatre but I really feel that the storyline was a very boring one. If it is not because of those four gifted actors and actresses that actually bring the play to life, I personally think that many people would fall asleep watching it.

No disrespect to Mr. Dattani because that is only my personal comment. Probably a lot of people out there who disagree with me and I do respect their opinions as well. Mala I the play was a bit different compare to the one that I’ve read in the script. In my previous post, I think that Mala hates men but in the play, she’s actually needs human male!

However, the mother impressed me the most. She’s not like the one that I read in the play. Before watching that play, I kept thinking in my head that she is not a responsible mother. Things went the other way around when she revealed the truth of what really happens to her, at the end of the story. That was a clever turnabout by both the writer and the actresses since people who actually dislike her throughout the play do pity her at the end of the play.

As for the villain of the story (Mala’s uncle), he’s the one who should receive the most credit because it’s not easy to play such a heavy role like he did. Basically, I did not feel regret watching it although I do mentioned it as a bit boring. However, it is up to the people to decide and I think that Mr. Dattani and his crew have already given their best shot. Congratulations and keep up the good works!

Zaki Omar
TESL 5
107828

Comment on the script

2004-08-29T17:15:00.000-07:00

Actually, I’ve already sent a comment to Dattani’s blogspot before I actually went to Bangsar to watch his play. Someway, somehow, my comment seems to ‘disappear’ so, I have to write it down all over again.

Personally, when I first read the script, I really did not find any interesting topic in it except about woman being abused in this modern society. This may be a bit harsh but in some society, the Koreans for example, beating a wife is a must for the husband, to show that they are in total control of the family. In 30 Days in September, again, this issue has been brought forward. It is not that I am ignorance since I do pity those women who have been abused, but I think that we already got used of this issue.

For Mala, this is a different case. She was abused by her own uncle when she’s still a small girl. That traumatic experienced keep haunting her and made her think that all men are evil. To make things worse, her mother refused to listen to her and keep telling her that she’s a liar in accusing her uncle in such way. This is the part that confused me the most. What kind of mother would deny her own daughter’s story? She supposed to protect her and comforting her but instead, she did the opposite. In this kind of situation, I do pity the poor girl. I do.

Other than that, I did not find anything that really captures my attention, for now. Hopefully all those negative thoughts in my mind would soon fade away when I watched the play. Since this is an international play, I believe that something special going to come out. Good luck!

Zaki Omar
TESL 5
107828

Thank You

2004-08-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

30 Days in September has brought us all to learn about drama deeply well. Being able to hold the script and reading it before watching a play itself is a step ahead. It has brought our mind to create our own setting and form a cast of our own desire. It is just like reading any other play. You don’t see them acting in front of you but you set them on the stage your mind has built.
The play was totally different from what I have pictured. The setting, the casts and even the script have gone through different elevation. Even though the play is not of my preference, I strongly believe that the play has taught me to be sensitive towards our surroundings and having the opportunity to talk to the actors of the play has made me to think of the victim’s future and how depressing it could be to put up a play based on facts. The explanation of the whole process of the making of ’30 Days in September’ moved me a little as I was amazed by the effort the director have put.
I remember the session we had with the other director months ago. I have to admit that both the play have different schema even though they deal with women’s dilemma. One talk about man empowering women and the other is about child being sexually abused. Yet, I think both the play have covey the message clearly and from what I see, it had open the eyes of certain people who went to watch the play.
Here, I would like to drop a few words of appreciation to Dr. Edwin who have been giving us this entire task. Although it takes a lot of our time and of course our money, in a way the whole learning process has made us to be more critical and analytical. Not to forget the effort you have put in requesting the casts to talk to us and inviting the director to respond to us. All this has been a brain food for us. In whole, I have to admit that I have been enjoying every second of this course and the only disappointment I have is that there’s no ‘Teaching the Language of Drama 2’ in our course.

thirty days in september..after

2004-08-29T06:40:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed watching the play.There is one part that need me to be really focused .The part where two situations are presented in one scene.Mala's uncle talking with her mother Shantha,and at the same time with Mala having conversation with Deepak in Deepak's house.There are many lessons to be learnt and to be practice and avoid in our everyday life's.We should not try to hide our problems that occur and at the same time we should not resolve the problem in our own wrong way as a solution to cure our pain.This play convey that message for all the audience that watched this play.
30 days in september...a play that should not missed.

kalpana.s
tesl 5

thirty days in september..before

2004-08-29T06:30:00.001-07:00

Thirty Days In September.I have read the printed copy of the play, Thirty Days In September by Mahesh Dattani. It’s an interesting play where they are important subjects that we should maintain and avoid in facing our lives in this society. The play is easy to read and understandable. I face no difficulties in reading the entire play.

The play revolves around two important female characters, Mala and her mother Shanta. There are also two male characters, Deepak, the guy who loves Mala and Mala’s uncle, Vinay, who caused Mala become traumatic. The writer of the play, Mahesh Datani, portrayed Mala’s character as a miserable young woman who faced a tragic and sad life in childhood. The childhood life later has contributed a misery in her young age, whereby it becomes a part of her life. She maintains and practices her own life style way in order to release her pain and suffer that she had in her childhood time.

Mala is caught and trapped in her own world in order to solve her problem. Although she knows that the way she practicing is not right, she is not capable to fight back and remains in her own wrong path until Deepak, the man who loves Mala, for what she is, changed and able to bring out Mala from her misery life.

The character in this play that impressed me a lot is Deepak. The way he handles and solves the problem faced by Mala shows his deep love and care of the woman he love. He tried to bring out Mala from her past misery life and change her present life and willing to marry her even after he knows everything about her. I believe Deepak is a gentleman and should be praised. I like some of his supportive and encouragement words towards Mala in certain scenes, for example….….

Why shouldn’t things go right? Things have been right so far, haven’t they?
Don’t worry...….Things have been fine so far. We are all perfect………
Since there is no problem, why should you go to a counselor? Right?……
...Mala, right now you are the most important person in your life……

Deepak also did not take advantage of Mala weakness when she came to his flat. Instead making the situation worst, he tried to help Mala revealed her pain, sorrow, and depression feelings.We can see Deepak sincere love towards Mala.I admire Deepak’s character very much in this play.To maintain a good relationship, among family or friends, we should try to understand deeply their feelings and pains and tried to overcome any problem that occurs to avoid sorrow ness that might lead to a misery life.I’m looking forward to watch this play.

kalpana.s
tesl 5

thirty days in september..before

2004-08-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

I have read the printed copy of the play, Thirty Days In September by Mahesh Dattani. It’s an interesting play where they are important subjects that we should maintain and avoid in facing our lives in this society. The play is easy to read and understandable. I face no difficulties in reading the entire play.

The play revolves around two important female characters, Mala and her mother Shanta. There are also two male characters, Deepak, the guy who loves Mala and Mala’s uncle, Vinay, who caused Mala become traumatic. The writer of the play, Mahesh Datani, portrayed Mala’s character as a miserable young woman who faced a tragic and sad life in childhood. The childhood life later has contributed a misery in her young age, whereby it becomes a part of her life. She maintains and practices her own life style way in order to release her pain and suffer that she had in her childhood time. Mala is caught and trapped in her own world in order to solve her problem.

Although she knows that the way she practicing is not right, she is not capable to fight back and remains in her own wrong path until Deepak, the man who loves Mala, for what she is, changed and able to bring out Mala from her misery life.The character in this play that impressed me a lot is Deepak. The way he handles and solves the problem faced by Mala shows his deep love and care of the woman he love. He tried to bring out Mala from her past misery life and change her present life and willing to marry her even after he knows everything about her.

I believe Deepak is a gentleman and should be praised. I like some of his supportive and encouragement words towards Mala in certain scenes, for example

….….Why shouldn’t things go right? Things have been right so far, haven’t they?
Don’t worry...….Things have been fine so far.
We are all perfect………Since there is no problem, why should you go to a counselor? Right?…….Mala, right now you are the most important person in your life……

Deepak also did not take advantage of Mala weakness when she came to his flat. Instead making the situation worst, he tried to help Mala revealed her pain, sorrow, and depression feelings.We can see Deepak sincere love towards Mala.I admire Deepak’s character very much in this play.To maintain a good relationship, among family or friends, we should try to understand deeply their feelings and pains and tried to overcome any problem that occurs to avoid sorrow ness that might lead to a misery life.I’m looking forward to watch this play.

reflection

2004-08-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

Characters, plot, point of view, setting,and other literary elements plays an important role in order to make a play interesting and successful. I believe that reading a ply from a script is not enough, instead we should try to watch the play lively to gain depth understanding of the play better. By watching the play, it gives us a knowledge how the play is conducted and we can feel the message that the actors want to convey to the audience. For example, by watching the play by Mahesh Dattani’s, 30 days in September, im able to understand clearly and better about the play and further more, meeting the actors of the play after watching the play gives us a chance to clear the doubt about the play. I think that, if got opportunity, we should try to watch any play lively in order to gain deep understanding of the play.

kalpana.s
tesl 5

Learning Experience

2004-08-29T03:20:00.000-07:00

The experiences that have been provided to us is trully a unique and fresh way of learning. We have always been learning, most subjects if not all, from “a distance”. I mean, that is how our education system is, theories, theories and more theories without the practical. In reading Dattani's '30 Days in September however, we have been given the oppurtunity not only to read and watch the play but also to interact with the cast and playwright. All these make me feel really close to the play. I can really get into the mood of reading, watching and eunderstanding the play instead of enduring it like any other tasks that I have been assigned.Similar to the experience we had with “Ops Ophelia”, where we watch the play and met the director, I managed to understand that play better and likewise with “30 Days in September”, I am able to comprehend the play much better. Although the the play seem to be quite easy to understand upon reading it but there are certain actions and responses of the characters that I could not understand and this have been explained by the cast and Mr. Dattani himself. The blogging ‘journey’ that I went through have certainly help me to see the other students view of the play. The various responses from the students is helpful because I can see some things/arguments from their point of view, although I may not agree with some of them. Nevertheless, all these has contribute to make learning drama a really wonderful and fun experience especially in the case of reading “30 Days in September”.

Norhamidah Mohd Yusof
109145

REFLECTION

2004-08-29T00:10:00.005-07:00

I had read about the drama and the important elements in it, such as, the character, the setting, the plot and others. By reading I only understood the literal meaning of it. But after I watched the play (thirty days in September by Mahesh Dattani), now I realize how important is the elements for a play. The depth understanding of the elements gives me the clear picture of what is actually called as a play. A play is not just acting but the actors must be really into the character to make the audience also feel the motion that the playwright wants to convey to the audience. This is the only way for the actors to attract the attention from the audience. As a literature student it’s good for us to go and watch any kind of play especially the play by Mahesh Dattani to increase our knowledge about a play.

NOOR KHIRULNISA BT ABD RAGIM
111997
SEM 05

30 DAYS IN SEPTEMBER

2004-08-29T00:10:00.004-07:00

On 31st Julai 2004 I went to watch second play in this semester, titled Thirty Days In September by Mahesh Dattani. The play was held in Actors Studio, Bangsar Shopping Complex. This is my first time I went to Bangsar shopping Complex. I was a bit surprise when I first enter the studio. The surrounding, the sits and everything are comfortable in there. The stage was located in the middle of the audience and all the audience are able to watch the play without any problem. The only problem that I faced while watching the play was bored. It is because a week before I went for the play, I had already read the original script of this play. I felt very bored and didn’t feel the excitement and the trilling as how I felt when I read the play. Even though there’re little changes in the script yet I didn’t felt interested to watch the play because I already know what is going to happen next. Furthermore the play was more to speaking and only little bit of body language. Any way at the end of the play I enjoyed the half an hour session with the actors. Many of my friends ask questions and the actors answered it patiently in a very professional way. They spent their precious time with us and I would like to thank them for that.

NOOR KHIRULNISA BT ABD RAGIM
111997
SEM 05

REFLECTION

2004-08-29T00:10:00.003-07:00

We have to consider a lot of elements in order to have a successful play such as characters, point of view, setting, plot and some other elements. All these elements play an important role in order to make a play successful. By just reading from a book on how a play should be or what are the criteria is considered in a play is not a worth. As a literature student, by just reading it is not enough we should go and watch the play in order to get the feeling.
As for me, when I read from the book about a play, I just got a rough idea about the play but after going for the play I had a clear picture on how a play will be conducted. We can have a better understanding by watching the play rather than just reading about it. I was satisfied when I had the chance to go and watch Mahesh Dattani’s play “30 Day’s In September”. This is because after the play we got a chance to see all the actors and what is the most important thing is, the actors were explaining about the characters, the plot and the setting of Mahesh Dattani’s play. They were explaining clearly and moreover they were sharing about their own experiences with us. It really helped me a lot to know about this play. Through this play, I could say that I have gained a lot of information.

PUVANESWARY RENGASAMY
111399
SEM 05

AFTER THE PLAY

2004-08-29T00:10:00.002-07:00

On 31st of July 2004, I went to the Actor’s Studio in Bangsar to watch a play called “Thirty Days In September” by Mahesh Dattani. One week before the play we have given the script of the play to read. When I read the script, I was really looking forward to watch the play. But when the day came to watch the play, I was not really attracted towards the play.
There were only four actors acted during the play even though there were many characters involved in the play. The same actors acted the left over characters. It will be bored to see the same actors acting for various roles. Since we have given the script of the play earlier, when watching the play we know what is going to happen next. There were no thrilling or excitement at all when the play was showed. Moreover the play was fully in dialogues. What I meant here is, the play was more to speaking rather than action. We get to know the message or the story of the play by the characters dialogues not by their body action or by their body language.
So as a conclusion I would like to say that I was not really attracted towards the play. When I read the play I was really into it but when I watch it I was not really into it.

PUVANESWARY RENGASAMY
111399
TESL 05

REFLECTION

2004-08-29T00:10:00.001-07:00

In my point of view, the play is interconnected to my studies. I have a vivid picture about drama after went to this play. I got to know how the drama is conducted and how difficult to perform it.
Acting out a play script is an essential part of understanding it. I considered some things when act out a play script. I noticed where do actors come in and go out and where is the audience. The stage area was strategic. In this play, they used furniture and props. Sometimes a single well-chosen object can make a scene real in surprising and powerful way. Through this play, I could know how important the costumes to define a character. As a literature student, judging character is an essential skill in life. It is also very useful in reading literature. I realized that characters in plays are not real people and actors create the roles. However, in certain kinds of play, however we like to watch as if the characters were real. We can have a better understanding by watching rather than just reading the script. Other than that, I have learnt that how the ideas, feelings and messages delivered through the characters. Through this play, I have learned how to evaluate or analyse a play and so on.
In conclusion, it really helped me a lot to know the play. In this case, I am very happy because as I read the play I was wondering how the play would be. It’s a nice play because its motivated and aroused my interest in literature especially in play.

TREESA JOSEPH
111441
SEM 05

30 days in september

2004-08-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

Thirty Days In September.

On 31st of July 2004, I got a great opportunity to watch a play that written by Mahesh Dattani. The play is called, ‘Thirty Days In September’. The interesting part was, I read the script before watch the play. While I was reading the script, I’m looking forward to watch the play. But on the day, when I watch the play, I was not attracted towards the play.
In script, I found there are so many characters involved in the play. But there were only four actors acted during the play even though there were many characters involved in the play. I was bored to see the same actors acting out for different role. Therefore, it makes me dull and its not arouse my interest during the play. There was no excitement when the play was showed because I have read the script and I know what is going to happen next.
In this play, the ideas and feelings presented to an audience through words or dialogues. I’m quite bored because there is no songs or dance to entertain the audience. In my point of view, I like to deliver messages through body language rather than dialogues. Thirty days in September, was more to speaking rather than action. The setting also not attractive because it’s very simple.
Actually, I like to read the script because its in simple language and its really interesting. But after watched the play I was not really attracted towards the play. When I read the play, I genuinely involved into the text. Then, at the end of the play, we had a half an hour session with the actors. It was a good session because the actors shared their knowledge with us. In conclusion, it is a good play and I hope they can perform well next time to attract the audience.

TREESA JOSEPH
111441
TESL 05

Reflection

2004-08-28T23:38:00.000-07:00

I had read about the drama and the important elements in it, such as, the character, the setting, the plot and others. By reading I only understood the literal meaning of it. But after I watched the play (thirty days in September by Mahesh Dattani), now I realized how important is the elements for a play. The depth understanding of the elements gives me the clear picture of what is actually called as a play. A play is not just acting but the actors must be really into the character to make the audience also feel the motion that the playwright wants to convey to the audince. This is the only way for the actors to attract the attention from the audience. As a literature student it’s good for us to go and watch any kind of play especially the play by Mahesh Dattani to increase our knowledge about a play.

Text vs Theatre

2004-08-28T23:36:00.000-07:00

This is my first time ever – to be given a chance to read and then go to watch the play. I watched Thirty Days in September, and I like it! If I want to compare this play with Ops Ophelia, I would say Dattani’s play is more understandable. I find it is easier to follow the flow its story because I have read it - simply because of my earlier reading. At least I have some ideas of what the play is all about. Maybe it seems sensible to my own prior knowledge. Because of this, I guess I begin to love and enjoy watching play. Besides, the talking session with the casts and the director is awesome! Also, I was quite surprised because I never knew that the audience would be given any chance to talk in person with the casts regarding any play. Somehow they made me felt appreciated even though I was not one of those who had the opportunity to ask. This session was very helpful to make me understand the play even more. Talking about blogging – posting and responding to each other blog, this experience is priceless. Despite of giving my own opinion, I also can read my friends’ comments which I can use their comments to expand my information about the play and also how to respond to each other comments brilliantly. The playwright himself participates in this e-journal where he sends one journal to us. It is very nice of him, not only to share his point of view but also to give some kind of motivation in studying drama. I do not know what my coursemates feel but I do feel motivated to learn drama after experiencing all these.

Che Nazilawati Binti Abu Bakar (109440)

AFTER THE PLAY

2004-08-28T23:31:00.004-07:00

reflection

2004-08-28T23:31:00.003-07:00

30 days in september

2004-08-28T23:31:00.002-07:00

On 31st of July 2004, I got a great opportunity to watch a play that written by Mahesh Dattani. The play is called, ‘Thirty Days In September’. The interesting part was, I read the script before watch the play. While I was reading the script, I’m looking forward to watch the play. But on the day, when I watch the play, I was not attracted towards the play.
In script, I found there are so many characters involved in the play. But there were only four actors acted during the play even though there were many characters involved in the play. I was bored to see the same actors acting out for different role. Therefore, it makes me dull and its not arouse my interest during the play. There was no excitement when the play was showed because I have read the script and I know what is going to happen next.
In this play, the ideas and feelings presented to an audience through words or dialogues. I’m quite bored because there is no songs or dance to entertain the audience. In my point of view, I like to deliver messages through body language rather than dialogues. Thirty days in September, was more to speaking rather than action. The setting also not attractive because it’s very simple.
Actually, I like to read the script because its in simple language and its really interesting. But after watched the play I was not really attracted towards the play. When I read the play, I genuinely involved into the text. Then, at the end of the play, we had a half an hour session with the actors. It was a good session because the actors shared their knowledge with us. In conclusion, it is a good play and I hope they can perform well next time to attract the audience.

reflection

2004-08-28T23:31:00.001-07:00

after the play

2004-08-28T23:31:00.000-07:00

Good Experiences

2004-08-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

Studying ‘30 Days in September before watching the play is a way to understand the text. It enables us to have clear picture of this play before watching the play. Not only does it make us to understand it, but also it enables us to imagine how the play is performed. However, there is one question which I would like to point out is that reading before watching the play may be a disadvantage. For instance, since I have read the texts, I knew what it was about. For that reason, I do not watch the play enthusiastically. Moreover, it may bring some disappointment to readers who have high expectations of this play after they have read the text. If the performances in the play do meet the readers’ expectations, a sense of disappointment will come across readers’ mind.
In addition, before watching the play, we are asked to give some comments or raise questions regarding to the play in the Blogspot website. It is a good way to see different readers’ response to the play. Through their comments and questions, it may trigger our thinking to analyses the text further before watching the play. Besides, the dialogues session with Dubey, other stage actors and actress is a rare opportunity for us to talk to these international professional stage actors and actress. Moreover, this session helps answering my questions in my mind: What does the doll signify? Why does Shanta keep silent over the sexual abuse which befalls on her and her daughter, Mala? Why does one man play the different roles: man who claims from Shanta; man who talks to Mala in the party; man who talks over handphone in the restaurant and Mala’ uncle.
In conclusion, reading, response to the text, watching and dialogue session with stage actors and actress is a good experience. It suggests that reading the play is not the only way to enable students to understand the text. In fact, do some critiques to the text triggers us to think analytically. It promotes my thinking skills. Watching the play will reinforce my understanding of the text. Dialogue session help me to solve my questions in my mind. This process is a way of appreciating, discussing and studying the literature. Therefore, when studying the text, not only does it study on the text, but also we can do go beyond the text to get better understanding of the text.

By
Tan Jing Woei, 110720
TESL’05
Teaching the Language of Drama
29/8/2004

It's Unexpected!

2004-08-27T06:30:00.000-07:00

It was really a good experience to watch this kind of play. First and formost, congratulations to Mr. Mahesh Dattani for the great work and also all the actors and actresses in making the play a success.
It's unexpected. Why did I say so? When reading the script, I've imagined and expecting to see a stage that will be full with props.... on the day of the play... wow! the stage is clear and not packed at all. Of couse I felt a bit sad because i'm not actually seeing the stage i've imagine but i've learn something interesting. By using the actors' imagination in creating the props and also another character is something beyond my mind. Of couse I've not think of that before.
I like the story line of the play. It was very brilliant of Dattani in bringing the issue of child sexual abuse in the play.
Great and all the best to your other plays ...

Poong Wan Hing > 111324

Learning through Drama

2004-08-27T01:09:00.002-07:00

The plays were really a good experience to me as I have learned a lot from the play. First of all I would like to thank my lecturer for giving us this opportunity. As I go through, what I have watched in the play is interconnected to my studies where I am studying the plays in detail in my class .To have a successful play, we have to consider a lot of elements such as setting, characters and plot and some other devices .I was only having a basic knowledge of what we know as drama and play but after going for the play I have the clear vision how a Drama or Play will be conducted and would be. I thought it was not an easy to get closer to the actors in the stage that is performing to know their strength and willingness in being an actor. But my dream came true when we were talking to the actors after the play. We have studied about how to analyze the characters and some other elements one by one , as It really helped me to understand the character that played in Mahest Dattani's Play where the character really played their role perfectly and one can analyze their role by just watching what their reaction in all the scenes that they had. I found easy to analyze the character as I have learned in my class and I really mesmerized by their acting and movement. Other than that I have learnt that ones character can be seen trough their movement and speech and find out their character in thirty days in September thorough their movement and speech. Moreover it really helped me a lot to know the play in detail as I had the script before the play. As I read the play I was in my imagination world as I was thinking how the play would be .In this I case I would say that I had developed my thinking skill and imagination. Everything that I have learned in my classis is applied in the play. Thank you sir for this wonderful play.

Purnee Balakrishnan
10162

Learning through Drama

2004-08-27T01:09:00.001-07:00

Learning through Drama

2004-08-27T01:09:00.000-07:00

30 Days in September

2004-08-27T00:30:00.000-07:00

An intriguing, eye opener…my ignorant question became a revelation to many on the true sufferings an incest victim go through. “Is Mala her father’s daughter, or her uncle’s daughter?” The whole theatre broke into laughter. But incest is no laughing manner. What Mala and Shanta had to go through, no woman should. Rape is bad enough but incest is double suffering. The guilt falls on the victim. Growing up scared… Growing up bitter… Growing up silenced.

This has made me to reflect on my being a teacher soon. With news on incest in the newspaper almost any other day, this has brought me to think of these poor little suffering ones. They will surely grow up one day. What will become of them?

I would not be shocked if in my midst a student would come and tell me that he/she has been sexually abused. I shall remember what I have seen. Never judge a book by its cover. Perhaps I need to find out why Ryan sits at a corner and he hardly talks. Still water runs deep?

Oh God help us…help the children

Well Done!

2004-08-26T15:54:00.000-07:00

30 Days in September

My first impression is this play is good but not interesting enough. The protagonist, Mala is a victim of child abuse. This childhood trauma effects all her relationship as an adult, specially those with men. It is not interesting because the protagonist herself ( Mala ) appears so many times then other characters. She is good with her voices but when the dialogue is too long and only her on the stage it’s make the play boring.
There are just four characters: Shanta, the suffering mother always trying to forget the reality through prayers and submitting herself to Lord Krishna, her brother, who is the crafty seducer, her daughter Mala, unable to forget her abuse at the hands of her uncle and Deepak, a sensitive young man in love with Mala.
In this play Darshan Zariwala plays so many characters, it is good to see one person can became other person but it is better to place other person to play the minor characters. It will be very interesting to see so many faces acts as one group.
The setting and props of the place is simple, with a curtain with picture of doorsteps, in the house only a place to pray and a long bench, in front of the stage they put some boxes to sit and a counseling room with a doll. It is quite simple but it gives the impact to the play overall. The lighting was good and I can see the important of lighting in every scene such as the opening scene, at night, in a restaurant, when The doll speak and ending.
The customs they wear is the usual dress. There is no grand dressing because it is only a play that needs the character to wear in their daily shirt but for Shanta the white dress she wears reflect something pure and innocent.
The sound effect is good with the sound of thunder and rain, the taped monologues of Mala it gives us the feeling that you are in the play. The rain outside the complex also make it real even though the scene is not supposed to have rain in it.
The throwing of voices is very good from all the actors and they know how to react to different situation especially Mala she have a good voice, she knows how to be sad, happy, angry ,confuse etc but the other actors also did a very good job.
The ending of the play is not so good because the audience knows and can guess what will happen next. it is a happy ending

Zainal abidin Mohd. Noh
PKPG-TESL
UPM

the learning experience

2004-08-24T23:19:00.000-07:00

It has been a very unique and joyful experience for me to see the ’30 days in September’ theatre. It was not only because of the theatre, but it is also because of the whole process of reading the script, watching the theatre, and finally responding to the theatre in this blog.
This is very different from my usual learning experience in class. I fell more relax and stress free even though it is a compulsory thing for us to see the play and respond to it.
Reading the play before actually seeing it has given me some rough background of the play but it also has its downturn. What I mean is that it is better to see the play first before looking at the script, we may feel excited to watch the play but when we finally watching it, we are no longer put our attention to the play, as we already know how it’s going to end. That is why theatre is meant to see, not to read. Nevertheless, there was a bit of differences in the play and the script that we have, so the play did gave us something different from what we have read.
The cast of the play, both the actors and the director have given a very clear explanation to all the questions that were asked by students. It has widened up my perspective on sexual abuse on children. I was feeling a bit confused as I watched the play, because uncle Vinay used Mala to satisfy his sexual desire but when she turned 13, he called her a whore felt disgusted with her. At first I thought that uncle Vinay had repent. However the Q&A session has made me realised that he is only interested in little girls.
Besides that, after watching the play, we also post views in this blog. It is very interesting because I can read other students’ views as well. Their views sometimes may be different from mine but with their explanation, I could not but sometimes agree with them.
Overall, this kind of learning is very good and effective. I would like to say thank you Dr. Edwin for introducing us to theatre and also making us realise that there are other exciting way of writing one’s view (internet) besides writing on papers.

Nor Azrina Akmal Bt. A. Rahman
109113

my feedback

2004-08-24T20:35:00.001-07:00

I watched the play 30 Days in September by Mahesh Dattani...which i found very interesting. There were slight changes in the script though...as i had read it even before watching the play. There was no much suspense in the play because i basically knew the story line. But i was eager to see the real play, i mean people actually acting it out. The actors were very enthusiastic...and acted out the play well. I liked the issue being brought up in the play...on how a little gal went through a deprived chilhood as her uncle rapes her. This leads her into malicious adulthood. Mala who was suffering mentally and emotionaly. She was seducing all the men to satisfy herself. She like that kinda pleasure. She was ruining herself because she felt that there was nothing precious in her left. Things changed when her boyfriend advices her to seek the counsellor. He made her realise that she deserve to lead a better life. At the end it worked, Mala was able to erase off the thought of her uncle and live with her boyfriend,Deepak. Im glad to be ale to watch this play. im looking foward for more play by Mahesh...with more sensitive issues. Thanks to our lecturer, Dr.Edwin.

shubatra thangarajoo
111504

my feedback

2004-08-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

after watching the play.............

2004-08-23T07:59:00.000-07:00

When I first read the final draft of the play, I was already intrigued by it and when I actually seen the play itself, it was truly captivating. The play was quite simple and straightforward but it managed to touch me. This maybe because the issue that is being presented in the play itself is very touching and one almost all women can relate to. The use of stage (stage direction) is also really interesting since it features more than 1 setting. Another interesting aspect is the use of the wooden boxes that can be moved around to create a new setting, from Mala’s living room to a restaurant etc. The play is so vivid that I can almost actually ‘see’ the restaurant and the party. I especially like the part where the scene at Deepak’s home (where Mala is with Deepak) and Mala’s home (Shanta with her brother) are being staged simultaneously. I was also looking forward to see how the doll is actually being used in the play and I think the idea of using the doll to portray the changing phase of Mala’s journey/emotion is really brilliant. All in all I really enjoy the play and I think it is really good. Congratulations to all the casts and the director and of course to Mr. Mahesh for writing this marvelous play.

Norhamidah Mohd Yusof
109145

Congratulation !!

2004-08-23T02:51:00.000-07:00

The play was indeed very interesting. It reminds me of my kids. It really touched my emotions. At least by watching this play, I will have the idea of how to approach my children when they face any problems in their life. The play has clearly projected about how women try their best to live and think positively for the future and left behind all their sadness and depressions. Well, Mr. Mahesh... you have done a good job. Thanks for the effort shown by your casts during the play. They have done a good job. Congratulation !!!.... Azlin Mohamad. PKPG TESL.

2004-08-23T01:42:00.000-07:00

Rameshen Mahamuni 111405

Mahesh Dattani’s 30 Days in September is my second play that I watched in Actors studio couple of weeks ago. My lecturer, Dr Edwin Vethamani, assigned this play for a purpose of studying drama in this semester.
I have gone through multi dimensional experiences in studying this play as a part of my course. First of all, my lecturer provide us the hard copy of it to read and understand the important elements in drama such as message/theme , stage direction, acts and scenes and also the cast in the play. The hard copy is about 70 pages in length and I finished reading it in an hour. There is a nice flow in the story line. The language that used in this play is very contemporary so that I did not face any difficulties to understand it. The story line is about a teenage girl who is suffer emotionally because of sexual abuse by her uncle and lack of her mother’s caring. There is some issue in this play that very questionable about its possibilities in real life situation. First, the girl seems hate he bad treatments by her uncle during her childhood and in between she seems to enjoy, like and wants all the man treats her in this way. Another matter that I can not accept at all is how a mother just simply ignore her responsibility to save her child from being abused by ‘The Man’ even though she gone through the same experiences with The Man’ during her childhood and just concentrating in praying.
After reading the play, I was asked by my lecturer to post a blog in Mahesh Dattani’s blog about my personal views about this play. I brought up all the unacceptable matter in my blog.At the same time I got a good opportunity to read my course mates views as well. I help my understanding of the play. I also had discussion with my friends about our own views whenever we met together after the class. It was an interesting discussion because all our views are differ to one another.
I watched this play on the 31st of July. The lighting plays a vital role in this play. The lighting and background music are very effective. The lighting is used to show the changes of act and scenes. I enjoyed the way casts present themselves in this play. They are very professional in acting. Their acting is super. Since I have already knows the storyline, I more focused on other elements in drama such as cast acting, their facial expression, stage direction ,lighting and background music and props. Prior reading really helps me to discover all these important elements rather than just enjoy the storyline for a pleasure purpose.
After the play ends, we have a meeting with the casts. The casts sit down and give some background information of this play. It is about their experiences in acting and most importantly the issues in this play. As the audience we are given chance to ask questions to the sat for further clarifications. All the cast are very humble in their way in answering the audience questions. I got clarifications for all my unacceptable matters in this play by listening to the explanation by the casts. I find out that, actually the girl is very confused with what love is and how people show their love others. She wrongly perceive love as something that perceive by physically. On the other hand, her mother is a weak character who is unable to stands against evil things and fight for her and her daughter. Once again I was asked to post a blog again in Mahesh Dattani’s blog on my experience watching the play and how it relates to the study of drama.
I personally believe that the various dimension of reading a play is really contribute for a greater understanding. Besides that communicating with each other in on-line communication (blogging) is very effective in the process of learning because we able to communicate with each other in a very comfortable time.
I WOULD LIKE TO THANKS TO DR.EDWIN VETHAMANI FOR GIVING ME SUCH A WONDERFUL EXPERIECES IN LEARNING DRAMA COURSE IN THIS SEMSESTER.

This is a post made by the infamous Atlas....

2004-08-22T21:48:00.000-07:00

Please excuse the lame title line :) BTW, my name is ATLAS NIYO 111341 and I'm a TESL 5 student.

http://photos1.blogger.com/img/68/1534/640/me_2002_1.jpg
(click this link to see my cheeky face! :D)

I also went to see this play at Actor's Studio Bangsar. I must say that I'm happy to be able to study drama in the method imposed to us by Dr. Edwin. What I meant by this is by reading the script before hand and then going to see the play itself being acted out by actors.

Now why do I say I'm happy?

For a first, I'm more prone to learn something better when using more of my senses. With this learning method, not only was I able to read the play and have an idea of how the play would look like, I was also given the chance to go see (and hear) the play being acted out and interact with the cast after the play has ended (which is a rarity according to Dr. Edwin). Now if only I could touch and smell the actors :P just kidding!

Never in my experience of learning did I ever gone through this method of learning. I guess it's something new for me. Of course I hope to implement this method of teaching to my students. I applaud Dr. Edwin for going out and helping us to learn things better by implementing ways alien to us. Oh, how ignorant our souls are if not for our saviour Dr. Edwin introducing us to methods way beyond our imaginations....

I must than Mr. Mahesh Dattani for coming out with the great script and taking time to respond to our questions posted here in the blogspot. Mr Mahesh, a big THANK YOU for all you have did. I had a great time studying the play he had written, questioning myself on my stand on women's sexual abuse and asking what I could do about it. Only thing I could wish for was to see this play being directed by Mr. Mahesh himself, as there are some notable changes in the play directions that more or less took some of the dramatic effects away from the play. I don't want to go as far as to critic as how the play goes and how the actors acted (*looks at some of my coursemates*) as I went there to see the cast's intepretation of the play, not how much they live up to my expectation. However, it's still a great play and I congratulate the cast for staging it.

I hope my friends be inspired by Dr. Edwin's teaching method like I did and do as much to their students when we go out to teach rather then to just stick with the text itself.

Until next time, God bless & later days!

P/S: Please visit my blogspot at: http://atlas_niyo.blogspot.com

A Great Play, but......

2004-08-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

To me, it was a good idea from Dr. Edwin asking us to read the script first and to blog before the play simultaneously making it compulsory for us to read it. it made me understand the play better, anticipating certain scenes and wondering how the director will portray certain scenes. on the contrary with a play i watched before this, where i didn't quite grasp what the play was all about, i can only assume. only after the director had a session with us, then only i can understand what the play was all about. whatever it is, reading the script before the play really helped me in understanding the play better, so i watched it without complications. i brought my brother along and he didn't really understand what was going on so i had to explain to him. this is evident enough that it is very useful to read the script first before actually watching it.

the play was nice, the actors were great, but there is something missing when i watched it. when i read the script, there are certain intense part where i actually felt emotionally involved with, especially when Mala confronted her mother, Shanta about the past. but when i watched the play, i didn't feel the same way as when i was reading it. in the script, Deepak was portrayed as a nice, soft-spoken understanding guy, but what was portrayed was a tough, masculine guy who did not really speak gently. it was indicated in the script that he cares for Mala and he was patient enough dealing with her, but it was on the contrary with what was portrayed. when i watched the play, it didn't seem to me that he cares for Mala. i mean, it didn't show that he really cares for Mala.

the play was nice and meaningful, just a few minor weaknesses. overall the play was interesting. especially when the actor successfully made a few parts interesting. it is an interesting way to convey certain issues that is usually a taboo to be talked about. nevertheless, the play was very meaningful...

Dattani's 30 Days In September

2004-08-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

When I read comments from my friends blog, I found mostly they give compliments to the play we watch, 30th of September. “Excellent job”, “Good play” and so on. Some say they are fell so touch with the play and cry. Only a few people dare give their comments and critics of the plays.
From my own points of view, I would say that I would not grade this play as a very good or very successful one. But on the other sense this plays does success in conveying it message about child who been sexually abuse and molested by an adults. When I read the plays I do enjoys reading it but when I went to watch the plays I found that enjoyments I have when reading its and watching it is not the same. When I read the play, I imagine how the characters of Mala, Shanta and Deepak will be look like when it was stage except the man I always confused man with him. At the play we watch in Actor Studio at Jalan Bangsar my expectations of the play is different from what was stage. I do satisfy with Shanta and man character because it somehow fulfills my expectations but Mala character she seem different from what I imagine and expect.
Comments I mention is not to emphasis this is a bad plays. Like some of my friends mention it as a plain story. Maybe the issue they discuss is something that we are always and used to listen. Sometimes the ways it stages, setting and actors presentation does influent audience mood and For me, I always wanted some theme that deals with unusual experience of human life. I always it presented if ways that not only really on the strength of words but also the other things like body language and so on.
Anyway, congratulation to all the actors because plays their parts well and not forgotten for people who involve behind the screen whose help brought this plays for us. I do learn something from it’s and I appreciate its. Lastly, Thank You so much.

WILMA BENNET
TESL 5
111534

Dattani's 30 days in september

2004-08-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

Dattani's 30 days in september

2004-08-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

It Does Not Meet My Expectations

2004-08-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

I had just come back from watching the play.
How should I start then? The play was not as what I had expected…
First of all, I would like to comment on the characters. When I read the script of the play, I thought Deepak is a gentle and understanding man. Moreover, I expected that the tone of his speech will be more soft and gentle. But after watching the play, I found that Deepak’s character is totally different from the one that I had imagined before. Deepak’s character in the play tends to be a masculine character, either of his speech or his action. Well, if he stress more on his face expression it will be better.
Then, I would like to talk about the mother’s character in the play. As I read through the script before this, I thought that the character of the mother will be a weak character, who keeping herself away from others, as if she is suffering from something. But the character that I watched in the play is a much more strong character.
Her acting is good overall, yet there are some scenes that which I think should be considered on. For example, the part that she is angry and unhappy when Deepak came to her house at the beginning of the play, but when Deepak told her about his identity, her mood change immediately. What I meant here is that her mood change so quickly without showing her surprise, as if she is prepared to be act at that way. However, the mother’s character is the character that I like most in the play, especially the part where she speaking likes a mute person. Her acting was so real that she made me felt the pain that she bear for all those years of what happened to her and her daughter.
Well, the use of the doll in the play is very unique. It portrays the changing of Mala as the story develop, which it will first behind the audience, then come to face the audience, as if tells that Mala is ready to face the problem. However, this is disturbed me, when it came to where the skirt of the doll has been put up, it shown a rape action to me…
In my opinion, the play is trying to bring up the issue of feminist abuses. How a woman in a traditional society suffer from various kind of abuses, yet cannot tell it to anybody as the society does not allow it, especially when such cases happen in the men dominated society. Worst still, if the victim tells it to somebody, instead of help the victim, society will say that the victim ask for those entire thing to happen.
For me, the play is a common one, in which we often get chances to watch that kind of story in movies or maybe read them in novels. Anyway, it did successfully convey it messages to the audience.

2004-08-20T05:05:00.000-07:00

Hello,

I enjoyed the play very much. The senario hightlight in the play is similar to what had happened in Malaysia. It make me think many time about it and I think mothers should listen more to their children/daughters complain and problems and take action as soon as possible. children is our next generation leaders so let them enjoy their childhood and get lots of love to make them a better man.
I would like to congrats those who involved with the play aspecially the cast

Molly

2004-08-19T03:46:00.001-07:00

Hi,there.

The play was great! It make me realised that the situation actually happened everywhere all over the world. It really touch my emotion and make me thinking about my children futures. If that kind of things happened in my family I do not know how to over come it also. I guess most women actually afraid to talk about 'it' due to some reason especially in term of personal. The writer wrote the script well and the director done a good job to make it alive on the stage.

Congratulations to all involved in the theater.

2004-08-19T03:46:00.000-07:00

30days in September

2004-08-18T23:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Mahesh

I watched your "30 days in September" and it was a fascinating play. Theatre is new to me but after watching you play, I became a fan of theatre. It was great. The best part is the story itself. I think incest is a universal issue but it is not often revealed. The victims suffer in silence. I think, your way of presenting this sensitive issue may open the eyes of the public who sometimes is unaware of the consequences to the victim.
I must congratulate the actors as well. They were marvellous. I admire the way they acted. Without them the message of the play cannot be conveyed successfully.
The play is very amazing.

Gouri
UPM - PKPG(TESL)

Amazing Play!

2004-08-18T21:16:00.000-07:00

Frankly speaking, the play was really impressed me! When I first saw the doll on the chair, what came to my mind was the issue of child - abused. I guess! Later I found it was true...This reminds me to my best friend who faced this horrible problem when she was in primary 4. So, that's why I feel that this play is really meaningful! I believe that this issue is not only happen in this era but it had happened a long time before. Seems like it won't stop or at least reduce! Who has to be blame? So, I would like to congratulate Mr. Dattani and crews for their effort in producing this simple and realistic play. I think this is one of the ways to open the eyes of people out there to handle this issue in our society. At least by watching this play, the audiences will realize what is happening around us and try to make a move to stop this scary problem.
Best wishes for Mr. Dattani and the four actors and actresses of this play!

Rosanita
PKPG TESL

“30 Days in September”, It is…

2004-08-17T23:18:00.000-07:00

Lillete Dubey, a veteran stage director who has experienced in theatre with a span of 30 years. I am very impressed with her performance. Here, I would like to congratulate Lillete Dubey, Nena Dubey and actors who had performed “30 Days in September” successfully. However, their performance does not meet my expectations when reading the text before watching the play.
The lady who played as Mala did not act as I imagined before watching the play. She did not show how suffering she was for being sexually abused and her mother did not want to believe her as the victim of sexual abuse. She also did not show her conflicts with men, Deepak, uncle and Shanta (her mother) as I expected. When Shanta revealed that Mala seduced her uncle, “she”(the actress) did not shout or react aggressively as I thought. In fact, I felt nothing when she acted as Mala who was sexually abused. I did not show sympathy to “Mala” at the Actor Studio @ Bangsar Shopping Complex. Her performance could not make me feel sympathy to “her”.
Similarly, the actor who played as “Deepak” did not as I expected. His performance did not meet my expectation. Based on the text, page 49,it is stated as “Deepak embraces her and rocks her as if she is a baby, in a non sexual way.” Based on this line, he did not perform as I imagined showing his sincere love to concern Mala who was in depression. That was not “Deepak” I wanted to see on the stage. I could not feel “his”(the actor) sincere caring love to Mala.
In contrast, I like the way Lillete Dubey acted as Shanta. The way she talked to Mala, she prayed for Mala, she touched Mala’s hair, she embraced Mala, and everything she did for Mala…made me so touching. I was so overwhelmed by her excellent performance. I could feel her motherly love at The Actor Studio. Her performance reminded of my mother’s unconditional love.
In conclusion, I am not here to criticize these professional actors and actress. Their performance did not meet my expectation NOT BECAUSE they acted badly. Actually, they have shown their performance as being professional ones. Only one thing I would like to point out, their performance did not engage me with the play. Probably, it is because their performance is far from my imagination when reading the text first before watching the play.

By
Tan Jing Woei
110720
TESL, Semester 05
Teaching the Language of Drama
UPM
18/8/2004

A GREAT play

2004-08-17T22:32:00.000-07:00

It was a marvelous play indeed! I could feel it deep down in my heart. I was very touched by the way the actors and actresses have expressed their speech, thoughts and gestures. It was far much better than what I’ve expected before viewing! I could feel that I was really there, not as a viewer, but a PARTICIPANT! Most of the questions I had in my mind, have been answered. I would also like to thank the director and all the casts for giving us chance to voice out our thoughts and feelings about the play. I felt very lucky to have such opportunity.

Regarding the play, I believed that the characters follow very closely to the script. This had helped me to allow my predictions (while reading the script) to go along with the play. Equipped with the script of the play, it was easier for me to understand almost every action performed by the characters. Hence, I did not feel that the play was as intense as the director have mentioned in the Q&A session!

It was a new experience for me to watch a professional play. I admired the way Shanta had expressed her part and I was emotionally touched when she disclosed her past to Mala and other characters. My tears flowed. I could not stop it, I did not want to.It was a memorable experience for me as the stage actors have inspired me so much. Sometimes I may think for myself, “Will I be able to express myself well in real life situation like how the characters did in the play?” It may be yes, it may be no.

Throughout the process of reading the script: discussing it with friends by exchanging our opinions and watching the play finally, I learned that to procuce a good play is a real complex job. The script and the play itself would be criticised and some may even dislike them at all! However, I believe that a play is really considered good when it can leave deep impression in a person's mind- what more if the person can shed a tear just because of the play!

I would also like to thank Dr Edwin for introducing us to this play. Thanks a lot to Mr. Mahesh Dattani for your precious time in sending us a post through this e-journal. I'm indeed looking forward for more plays written by Mr. Mahesh Dattani.

May God bless all of us.

Ng Mindy
110054

After Watching the Play...

2004-08-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations on the success of carrying out the play, Mr. Dattani!!! The play was awesome!!! I really enjoy watching the play! I feel fortunate that I went to watch the play.

Dr. Edwin likes to introduce various types of new learning experience to us. Last time was the online assignments, recently was blogspot and now we were encourage going and watching plays in theater. It is indeed a new learning experience to me. Before and after watching the play we are required to response on the blog. This is an opportunity for us to voice out our feelings and thoughts.

Besides that, another new learning experience was by reading the script of the play before watching the play. Having the script play before watching the play is something very unusual. It is a multidimensional experience of reading and learning experience I had here. I'm very glad that I got the script and read it before I went to watch the play. This helps me a lot in understanding the play more before and after watching the play. Besides that, I can even predict what will happen in the next scene during the play. It surprises me that, some of the events was not as same as what I read in the play; my prediction went wrong.

At first before watching the play, I thought the doll that was shown when the play starts symbolized Mala. When I finished reading the play I discovered that it was her uncle. What surprise me was, after watching the play, I found that it was not her uncle, it was Mala. Another doll that Mala pick up was his uncle. Lots of confusion during reading the play almost solve after I watched the play.

The staging of the props are beyond my expectation. I thought it will be more complicated than what I saw. The props are very simple. Besides that, I saw there were many doors on the stage background. There was a question proposed regarding the doors. The answers were given was doors are meant for escape. I personally think that it is the path for Mala and her mother chooses to carry on their life.

I feel that it is tragic that her mother chooses 'ignorance' to continue her life. But we couldn't blame her for being ignorant. She doesn't know how to help herself and she was just a small child at that time. She believes that God will help that's why she kept praying to God, hoping that God will relief her pain and help her to forget the past experiences. And that is what she did by ignoring everything. Moreover, she seeks 'peace', peace of mind from God. Additionally, it's so traumatic that she had been sexually abused back during her childhood by her own brother. And now her daughter too, been sexually abused by her own brother, Mala's uncle.

I believe that most of the women will avoid facing reality itself. They rather choose ignorance, self-denying, worst they'll commit suicide or gone insane. Reality is too cruel for them to accept.

It is really a good idea of Mr.Dattani to bring this idea of children being sexually abused by their own family or others because this reflects the current state of our society. Women are not brave to stand up and voice up their grievances. Children (girls) don't know what and how sexual abuse is like. They trusted the adults. They think that everything the adults did was right. And that's why we should educate children to be more aware of child sexual abuse.

Talking to the cast is one of the new learning experience I got during the play. This session was purposely arranged for us, as all of us that attended the play were students. In my opinion, it is something unusual for the cast to spend 30 minutes talking to us regarding the play. It is an opportunity for us to ask questions and solve whatever confusion we had in our minds. Lots of question was proposed during that session. The actor themselves acted on the stage they know their role better than anyone in the studio. So, it is a golden opportunity for us to hear what their thoughts and feelings acting throughout the play.

I've proposed a question after the play ends. "Why Mala keep sexually abusing herself since she hated her uncle so much for abusing her?" The answer was- Mala enjoy the pleasure as well as the sufferings and pain. She wanted 'men's' recognition. She wants them to compliment her and recognize her existence. Plus this is one of the ways she seeks attention from men too.

I really learnt a lot and gained valuable experience in this play.
I'm looking forward to watch more of Mr. Dattani's play in the future.

Goh Sze Ching
110790
TESL 05

CONGRATULATIONS FOR A GOOD PLAY

2004-08-16T05:26:00.000-07:00

Well, what I can say here is I had a wonderful experience watching the play.It was a very good play though only 4 peoples performing it. It really took me into the play. When watching it, I could feel the pain faced by the victims of abusement especially for women. Mr. Dattani did manage to bring this matter to the public in a very good way. As a woman, I began to think, what if I face that kind of situation. What will I do if it happens to a member of my family. Am I willing and strong enough to accept it? Am I going to face the reality or just keep it in myself and hurt me throughout my life? Anyhow, I love the play very much. It was interesting, marvellous and touching. Congratulation and hope to see more of your plays.

Ainidah Abu Bakar

A Fantastic Play

2004-08-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

30 Days in September deals with sensitive issues of abuse, incest and trauma. Lillete Dubey has tried to depict delicate personal elements of the Indian cultures and mannerisms using English. The idea of this play was like a
Shakespeare play, with its universal appeal, being performed not as an Elizabethan period piece, but in another setting and context.A controversial play that had captured the heart of many. Once again Bravo! to Mr.Mahesh and all the crew.

Well done Mr.Mahesh Dattani

2004-08-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

30 days in September by Mahesh Datani is a wonderful play that I shall never forget . The play is close to my heart, impresses me and makes me aware of this kind of abuse . This play , which trades with the fractured relationship between a mother and a daughter was beautifully written and draws my attention. I'm so excited that this play is able to examine issues that shape our lives in more ways than we can imagine , but which we dare not dig into .
Mahesh Datani has clearly projected the women's journey of recovery and cure from sexual abuse. Perhaps, he makes the audience to be alert of their family members and also their friends and relation who might be suffering of abuse. Apart of that , parents should not miss to watch this play , so that they can protect their children and let them grow up feeling safe . It is very clear that this play emphasize the relationship between a mother and daughter is very important. So that, they can be together in their journey of love and sympathy to cure their deepest wound.

K.Mani Mahla
PKPG Tesl /04

Excellent!

2004-08-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

Excellent job Mr.Dattani. I believe “thirtydaysinseptember” is a great play. We got an opportunity to read the script before we watch the play. At first, I thought this is a good because we can know more or less about the play. However, I feel the idea to read the script first is not good. This is because; I already knew what is going to happen next in the play. The excitement was not there because I know the story already. On the other hand, first year students felt excited because they do not know what the play is about before they watch it. I found that, there are few changes in the play which does not follow the script. For the example, at the end of act 1, in the script, Uncle Vinay will ignore Mala. However, in the play, Mala went out when Uncle Vinay came back.
Besides that, the Q&A session was very nice and helpful. Through this session, I found out a lot of information about this play. The cast are very friendly and they gave good explanations for each and every question. I believe that, this on-line journal is very good idea for students to deliver their comments regarding this play. This on-line journal gives opportunity to read others’ opinion and feeling towards this play. I can read others’ point of view through reading their comments in this journal. The most important is thank you Mr.Dattani for your response in this on-line journal.

Vithiyasri
111 500

WELL DONE, MAHESH DATTANI!

2004-08-15T19:31:00.000-07:00

As a new experience for me, watching your play was unforgotable! Whatmore when the issue was on current social awareness. With marvellous actors and actresses, the whole play was touching. Eventhough the setting is simple, the play took much of my interest. This first experience also gives me some encouragement and ideas on how to proceed with my theatre play which I'm going do in this semester. Well done, Mahesh and I'm looking forward more of your wonderful plays in future!
Pakiam 119994

Just Another Plain Story...

2004-08-15T18:57:00.000-07:00

30 Days in September. So what if the month have 30 days? It will still go on as any other days. So what if the issue of sexual abuse is being brought up? It's not going to stop the world from spinning. Well, i was expecting something different. I am through with all these issues of women being abused and asking for some sympathy. It's not like we don't know about it. It do happens everywhere in the world and who knows, one of the audience who came to watch the play can be someone who's been practising the out of norm habit. The question is, can the play change people? I was not moved at all. I even yawned a few times. The dialogues were too long and boring. There was not even one line that could really capture my attention.
I am not going to say that it was totally a bad play. It is just me. I don't fancy this type of issue. Perhaps the early reading was the cause of my dislike because i have pictured something so different from what i saw in the play. Anyway, i would like to express my utmost joy for the people who worked for the play because from the responses i read, there are more positive view than negative ones. So Congratulations to all who participated in the play which i think is just another simple, plain story.

Albert Nathan(111451) TESL05

What a Wonderful Play It Is!

2004-08-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, congratulations to all the actors and actresses that have involved in this play. This play have bring out the arising issue, sexual abuse. Everyone should be aware about womens being sexually abused and the trauma that they are having throughout their live. In this play, the issue of being sexually abused being brought out in different angle. We actually can't predict what is happening at the end of the story. After watching the play, I feel that the storyline is extremely well formed and edited but there are some comments that i would like to give about this play. First of all, the character "Mala", really didn't comes out because the actress doesn't show much emotional reaction during the play.Secondly, the setting should be changed or set in an attractive way. The colors of the furniture should be bright in color because during the play, the theatre were dark including the setting too.Lastly, please dont provide us with the script before the play. It is because we are not fully concentrating during the play. We actually know what is going to happen in every scene of the play. Anyway, the play was really good and good job to everyone who have involved in this play. Thank you.

Agelyia d/o Murugan
111411
Tesl 5

Excellent!

2004-08-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

2004-08-15T02:44:00.000-07:00

Obviously the director of the play ’30 Days in September’, Mahesh Dattani, should be credited for directing such an enchanting play like this. It’s an eye-opener to many as the play unfolds the sufferings of a mother and her child’s childhood trauma. In real life, many children and women have gone through such tragic experiences. They were victims of men’s lust for a woman. This play clearly illustrates how such experiences have a great tormenting impact in a woman’s life. The characters ability to act, gestures, actions and voice contributed to the success of staging this play. They successfully brought to life the various scenes, the devastating moments and memories in their life.
Though, this was the first play I have seen, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the play. Every actor, no matter how small their role was, did prove worthy of the role given to them. The setting of the stage was simple, but I think is adequate for the play. On the whole, everyone, from the director, playwright to the actors, actresses and crew did a fine job in making this play a great success.
Another message that I gather from this play is the role of the society to curb such immoral things from happening. Certain believe, practices and customs of the society have to be changed so as not to victimize the weaker sex in the society.
It is an entertaining and thrilling play. I thoroughly enjoyed this play and wouldn’t miss a play by the same drama troupe.

Sandi A/P Kunchamboo
PKPG-TESL 2004
UPM

Bravo!

2004-08-15T01:56:00.000-07:00

A play that made my eyes filled with tears. This is the best description for 30 Days in September by Mahesh Dattani. A wonderful play that describes the world’s current issue. Many of us are ashamed to talk about incest but the director took the initiative to interview some of the victims to look for a clear picture of this issue. The play can be considered as the compilation of the information he gathered. It creates a lively play, which I really enjoyed. The actors and actresses put themselves in the shoes of the characters and that was realistic.
I wondered why the director used the same actor who acts as Uncle Vinay for all the minor characters such as the “paperwallah” and the man in the restaurant rather than using some other actors. My question was answered during the question and answer session. The reason was to show that Mala sees the uncle in every man and the method used to indicate this was very effective. The question and answer session was very helpful for us to understand the play better.
For the crew of this play you all did a wonderful job!

Angeline Edward
111 438

Message from Dr. Edwin: Relecting on the multidimensional experience of reading Dattani's '30 Days in September'

2004-08-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Students,
You've had quite a unique experience in reading the play by Mahesh Dattani. You read the play and you went to the theatre to watch the play at a local theatre. You then had the experience of talking to the cast of the play, both the actors and the director. Besides, all this, you have been posting your views and responding to each others' views in an e-journal, this blog. You've even had the playwright himself send a post to this e-journal, responding to some of your questions.
I would like you all to think about these things and post your views about your learning experience in relations to all I have said.
I look forward to reading your posts.
Enjoy literature!
Edwin Vethamani

Interesting and Wondeful Play

2004-08-13T02:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you very much to Mr.Dattani for giving us an interesting and meaningful play. It is really a thought-provoking play. The message highlighted in the play is not a new issue for the viewers yet it makes us to be more sensitive and alert in dealing with our young kids. The message was conveyed in a simple and understandable way. I really enjoyed the play very much because the language used by the actors and actress was very simple. Congratulations to Mr. Dattani and all the members who invovled in the play.
Saraswathi Ramakrishnan

Interesting and Wonderful Play

2004-08-12T17:01:00.000-07:00

30 Days in September was an interesting and wonderful play.I really enjoyed myself watching this play.The issue higlighted was common but the way Mr.Dattani portrayed the issue within the two female characters really amazed me. The two female characters were the victims of a child rapist. Their behaviours were totally different after such an incident occured in their life. Shanta, the mother, remained silent whereas Mala the daughter showed her trauma by seducing other guys. Now, I can see the sufferings and pains ondergone by those children who were sexually abused and how such incident can change their way of life. Thanks Mr.Dattani for giving us such an excellent play.

Anusha.S.

Congratulation for the wonderful & meaningful play!

2004-08-11T22:15:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed myself watching the play ‘30 days in September’ by Mahesh Dattani. I think this is the first time watching a play without reading the handout, but to my surprise it was a play which I could follow the storyline from the beginning till the end. The message was conveyed to us in a very-very simple, touching and in an easy way. The setting and props were simple but was good enough to bring out the message. I would like to congratulate the actors and actresses as they played their role very well.
Although the issue of child abuse is a common issue that we read and watch through mass media. But the play would be an eye opener to our society to be more aware of it because it can happen anywhere even among our own family members. I liked this play not only because they brought up the issue of child abuse but also given us some sort of solution for it. Thank to the entire crew of the play as I was very touched by the play.

Amlor pakkiam
PKPG TESL

A Good Play

2004-08-11T01:52:00.000-07:00

Sexual abuse happens everywhere. It happens to males and females, adults and even children. "30 Days In September" is a good play. It exposes the actual case in the society. Thank you very much to Mr. Mahesh Dattani, entire actor and actress and the crew. I believe that the play had impressed many people.
Tan Gaik Khin PKPG

2004-08-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

A SIMPLE BUT OUTSTANDING PLAY
Dear Mr. Dattani,
Congratulations and I really admire your style in directing the play "30 days in September". It was your first play and indeed the first English language Indian theatre that I have the chance to watch. After watching few plays, I admit that this is the first time I can understand the flow of the story without asking anybody. Though only two actresses and two actors on the stage,they managed to convey the massage of the play in a very smooth way.Actually, your style made me relised that in order to perform a good play, it is not necessary to have many actors acting it. You had also succeeded in arising the issue that really happens in today's society. I hope that this play will open the eyes of the world and actions will be taken to prevent 'that' from getting worse. Anyhow, until now, I am still thinking about the month September as used in the title of the play. Why did you choose September and not any other months of the year? Is there any secret in choosing September? Last but not least, once again, congratulations to you and to everybody involved in the play, on stage or back stage.For you sir, I do hope to watch more of your plays and do continue with your theatre life as you are a great man in producing great plays.BRAVO!

Junaidah Ismail
UPM

What a horrible issue !

2004-08-09T19:28:00.000-07:00

What a horrible issue being raised here! I was impressed by its title. Immediately what come to my mind is a happily childlife since the song is familiar, and i enjoy myself. Instead, it become a scary, horrible, sad and disgusting ! I'm deeply touched by the mother speech ...' what can I do, since HE also done the same THING when was six!'

This is actually the issue that we, I think as parents should ponder. Congratulation for bringing up this issue in a way that very-very touching. I can feel the child' feelings as well as her mother just by reading the dialogue. I really put myself in their shoes... I think here is the strength of this play - using the dialogue. Well done.

Noni Zakaria pkpg tesl 112391

Thank You and Congratulation!

2004-08-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

A very thank you and congratulation to you - Mr. Dattani! It is indeed a play that really arouses the community to look up at this matter which has been swept under the carpet for many many years!

As a mother of 3 daughters in their teens, I do try my very best to protect them. But how far can one be protected? In a world full of uncertainly, the moral value of the one whom we called ‘HUMAN’ can become ‘INHUMAN’ when opportunities arise as the play depicts.

Thus, the right value should be implanted in us and effort to prevent abuse should be practiced by all!

S.P. Lim PKPG-TESL (119989)

Good issue arises!!

2004-08-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

30 days in September arises a social issue that we know and hear frequently in our daily life. Through the play, it reveals the cause and sequence of child abuse. Nevertheless, it provides some solutions for such case. It is an awakening for me after watching this play that the seriousness of an unhappiness childhood affected the entire life of a victim. Also, the two extremely different victims, i.e. ‘silent’ or ‘wild’ remind me that never judge and criticize a person for their behaviour and character. He/she might be ‘treated’ differently in their childhood.

Cheah Yu Chnu

An excellent play

2004-08-09T07:50:00.000-07:00

It is a simple and yet a touching play. It has opened my eyes to the silent suffering faced by the child sexually abuse victims. I am so sad to see the victim’s reactions due to the consequences of incest. In “ 30 days in September”, it reflects that Shanta tries to keep silent about her abuse and keeps herself solitude by praying to her God for solace. Whereas her daughter, Mala tries to get comfort in the arms of any men. It enhances the real situation that the child sexually abuse victims are facing. Therefore it is very effective in conveying the message to the audience. Well done!

In conclusion, I would like to congratulate you, Mr. Dattani for bringing up a taboo subject, which happens so flagrantly in our society nowadays. It is an excellent play and it really captures my imagination!

Molly Cheah (119992)
PKPG-TESL(UPM)

Syabas!

2004-08-07T18:16:00.000-07:00

I was impressed after watching the play 30days in September by Mr Mahesh Dattani.It is one of the play which relates with real life of people who are going through the period of depression.
The setting is simple but symbolize and has meaning behind it. For example in the consultant room plays a doll symbolically attracts most of the audience. They do play an important role in creating the mood of suspence in the play over all.
Finally, the play somehow rather effects me and feel pity to the plight of women. Syabas! To the play writer who I think succeed in highlighting the issue of sexual abuse faces by women in a clear and simple way to the audiences.

SARASWATHY SAMINATHAN(119997)
PKPGTESL2004
wathy3211@yahoo.com

Thank you!

2004-08-07T02:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you for such a good job in producing the play “30 days in September”. The issue of child molestation is being described through the characters in the play. Cases like this happen around us when we are not aware of it. It might be happening to our neighbours, friends or relatives whomever we are closed to. I feel that open communication in the family is the key to solve this problem. Parents should take the initiative to understand and help their children. If Shanta’s parents were to sense something was wrong with their daughter as she had become so silent ever since she was six years old, maybe the same thing may not happen to Mala, Shanta’s daughter. The abuse could have been prevented. The same man has destroyed both the mother’s and daughter’s virginity and left them living in shamefulness and reproach. We can see how helpless and hopeless they are through the acting of two actresses in the play.
In this play, the mother and daughter deal their problems differently. The mother keeps quiet after being molested. She makes herself busy in praying to her God Shri Krishna for help. The daughter, instead, leads a loose and dissolute life. She sleeps with any man who is available. However, one thing that helps her is that she does not remain silent as her mother does. She consults a counsellor. She pours out her heart to the counsellor. Later, she is able to get rid of her obscene conduct when she meets a loving and understanding boy friend.
The mother is lonely and unhappy because of remaining silent whereas the daughter later is happy and able to face the reality because of her openness to speak up. Therefore, it is important for the victims of child molestation to speak up. If they remain silent, nobody will know their problems and offer help for them.
This play is such an excellent play that it not only helps us to realise the problems of child molestation but also offers a way to solve them. I am looking forward to the next play by Mahesh Dattani in the future.

YEE BEE CHOO (120000)
PKPG TESL

Dattani's 30 Days In September

2004-08-07T01:46:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank Mr. Dattani for writing an excellent play for us. I would also like to thank Lillete Dubey for making it an excellent production. I enjoyed every minute of the play. It truly moved me. Perhaps more so because I could relate to Mala's and even Shanta's trauma as sexually abused children. I call it trauma and not anything else because I know for a fact that it is traumatic.
It is definitely not an easy task to 'show' the people out there some ugly truths about life especially one like incest. I believe Mr. Dattani, Ms.Lillete Dubey and the cast must have done a lot of research before the play was opened. The scope of their research must have gone wide and deep and I am totally amazed that they have put up a play that depicts the trauma of sexually abused children to near perfection. I am amazed and for that I congratulate you.

M.Kasthoori.
UPM

DEEPLY TOUCHED

2004-08-06T08:28:00.000-07:00

A deeply touching and soul awakening play. Thank you very much to you sir. I strongly believe your play has opened many eyes to realize the extent of suffering and destruction that children who were once victims of incest could be enduring.

Lily Velu
PKPG TESL
lyve2467@yahoo.com

...

2004-08-06T05:55:00.000-07:00

A wonderful wonderful play...I find this play very 'real' as it unfolds the truth to issue that is actually common, happening everywhere and yet nobody is willing to stand out and fight against it. Everyone would rather keep their secret to themselves and act as if nothing had happen... It did happen, it is happening and it will happen again! It will not stop unless we stop it!

'3o days in september' awakes me to realize the kind of society we live in.. the society that all of us have contributed to by not noticing what is happening around us and not doing anything to stop it. It's not that we don't know, but we choose not to. Our attitude of minding our own business somehow give ways to incident like this to occur more often. Victims like Mala and Shanta are everywhere, it might be our neighbour's daughter or our friends in school but do we ever bother? How many actually take the trouble to even notice? We always shut our eyes and our minds to things that we do not like and do not want to get involved.

I think that a play like this should be stage more often to create awareness amongst us and hopefully by 'witnessing' the torture that Mala and Shanta had gone through, only then we will start thinking...

Gan Shiau Hui
98422 TESL 7

Bravo, sir!!!!

2004-08-06T05:44:00.000-07:00

I had seen several plays and in my opinion yours are the easiest to be interpreted. Right from the start, the elements of choices have been introduced through the backdrop which has so many doors. Mala and Shanta have so many choices in revealing to each other or to the society on what had happen to them. This silence leads to the disaster on their relationship and for Mala, she is facing more severe problems in dealing with other human. The use of doll at a corner which is facing the center stage gives me the idea that what’s happening on the stage is view by a small kid and it had been happen in the past. Her acceptation on what had happen to her in the past can be view from this corner. It’s an excellent trick in presenting two views without the changing of setting. The actors and actress played their roles so convincing and for that I said “bravo”.

The issue of raping especially if the rapists are from their own families or their close relatives is a common phenomenon in Malaysia. The silence from the victims and the families made the situation worst. I, as in-service teacher seen this problem occurred to a student in our school and the school authority had made a report to the police station but there is no action taken because the family deny the report. These behaviors should be stopped in order to avoid this situation happened again. Now, our family is still safe, but who knows what happen in the future. Thank you sir for your sensitivity on this issue and I think this kind of play should be presented to broader viewers such as in television.

Salasiah sms (112405)

Congratulations!

2004-08-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

Congatulations! It was my first experience watching a live theatre that brought me into it. It is about an unstoppable everyday issue which occurs every where in this world and nobody can deny it. "30 Days in September" by Mahesh Dattani portrays a brutal child abuse by her uncle. It focuses on how the trauma of childhood abuse dominates her adult relationships in the future. The play merges the past and the present seamlessly, depicting scenes of abuse she recalls from her childhood and then focusing on the present with a determined boyfriend who refuses to accept that their relationship is over. I like Deepak's character where he plays his role nicely the way he should be. He is a protector who acts as he does to defend and support Mala because no one else can. Well done! It's a good job.

Husmahwati Bt Hussin (119985)
PKPG TESL

2004-08-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations!

2004-08-05T19:43:00.000-07:00

Congatulations! It was my first experience watching a live theatre that brought me into it.
It is about an unstoppable everyday issue which occurs every where in this world and nobody can deny it. "30 Days in September" by Mahesh Dattani portrays a brutal child abuse by her uncle. It focuses on how the trauma of childhood abuse dominates her adult relationship in the future. The play merges the past and the present seamlessly, depicting scenes of abuse she recalls from her childhood and then focusing on the present with a determined boyfriend who refuses to accept that their relationship is over. I like Deepak's character where he plays his role nicely the way he should be. He is a protector who acts as he does to defend and support Mala because no one else can. Well done! It's a good job.

The title??? And issues

2004-08-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

Hi... Watching the play is really mind opening. What is happening in the play is exactly what is happening in the Malaysia and the world in general. People who are in Shanta's or Mala's situation may not have a lot of choice in making decision to how to go on with their lives except to be quiet. Child abuse either physically or sexually by people whom they are closed to and trust is rather disgusting because the incident will haunt them throughout their life.

There are only few people like Deepak that will give these people a second chance to enjoy life. To the victims, only silence can help them forget about the past. But for how long they can stay silent? I would like to bring us all to rape cases. The reason why do some raped women does not lodge reports to the police is that when they did that, they are to be blame. Society seems do not want to understand the misery that they are facing. If only we could open up our mind and help those people, their life will be more meaningful.

During the play in KL, my attention attracted to the backdrops. There are two different backdrops that interest me. The backdrop with a lot of doors may represent the choices that one should have in continuing one life after the incident. While the backdrop with trees and flowers may represent the tranquility that Mala finally achieve in her life after marrying Deepak and after knowing the reason of her mother's silence. (This is only my view.)

I have a question to Mr. Dattani (or anybody in authority of the play) that lingers in my mind. Why is it '30 Days in September'? What does it actually mean? I really hope you could reply. Thanks.

Nahzatul Shima Danyal
UPM PKPG-TESL (Sem 7)
shima_danyal@yahoo.com

Engrossing

2004-08-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

A thought-provoking play. After viewing it, I couldn’t help but think about it many times. A simple yet graving issue. I’m quite sure those who had watched it will have a different perspective now. Hopefully we will be a better person after this.
Congratulations!

Azlinidris

Congratulation!

2004-08-05T06:11:00.000-07:00

Well done, Mr Dattani! What an astounding play!

The play is wonderful! Congratulation! I really enjoy watching it. I have never watched a stage play before, this is my first time watching a play at a theatre and it is marvelous, I was amused. Though everything seemed simple especially the costume and the setting; with the superb actors and the powerful and clear voice projection, it has given great impact to the audience. Besides, the lighting has also given a great dramatic effect on the play.
Again I would like to congratulate you for writing such a great play, which is based on your research. You have brought up the issue of child sexual abused through the play, which happens rampantly nowadays. By revealing the true story, this will make the society aware of it.

I would like to ask you 2 questions regarding stage play:

Hw do I memorize a script?
How do I project my voice to the audience?

Thank you, Mr Dattani. I hope you will be able to share this knowledge.
Keep up the good work, Mr Dattani. I am looking forward to watch your next play.

Ng Lie Lin (119993)
(PKPG TESL)
lielinng@hotmail.com

WONDERFUL PLAY!!!CONGRATULATIONS.

2004-08-05T05:06:00.000-07:00

In response to 30 Days in September by Mahesh Dattani

It was an interesting stage play. The play has successfully brought up the taboo subject of incest and managed to convey its messages to the audience in a tasteful manner. Although there are only four actors in the play, it is amazing to see each actor taking up the multiple roles so convincingly. For instance, in one section of the play two incidents were acted out at the same time and this was done very creatively. The acting looks real and natural.
In spite of all the good acting aspects of the play, I have a few bones to pick. The props used in the play were too simplistic. It failed to convey the setting and it was all up to the audience to use their own imagination. Likewise the reasons behind why the doll was used and what it symbolized. Although it was used to depict the past of Mala, I feel it inappropriate in the way the doll was displayed in a very sexist manner. It was very chauvinistic and insulting to the gentler sex as a whole. Confusion also reigned. There was one part towards the end where Deepak supposedly to take up the character of a psychiatrist, was abruptly introduced to the audience sitting on a chair! He should have entered the stage first with the lights off, walked out again to take his sitting position in the chair and after that only has the stage lights dimmed. This will give a more realistic effect.
As a conclusion, at the end of the play it still manages to capture my imagination.

LOO WAI LIENG (119990)
PKPG TESL

30 DAYS IN SEPTEMBER, A SUPERB PRESENTATION

2004-08-05T04:52:00.000-07:00

Dear sir,
Congratulation!!!!! A superb presentation from an Asian writer.A brilliant idea I suppose. Not many play these days that care to present social issues like what you just did. Social issues like this are commonly preferred to be kept in a “dungeon” and not many writers dares to deal with it as it is not lucrative.
“ silence incomprehension leads to inner conflict and suppressed anger leads to conflictional identity. That is what I see that you are trying to promote to the audience but on top of that what I see is the issue of the majority of patriachal society that dominates the women’s society. This vast issue is not only happening in India but throughout the world.
But what I would like to highlight is that, there are cases where the abuser is not the patriarchal society but the matriarchal society instead. My question is how you deal with it? As a Hindu how do you deal with this issue which puts men as the major role in society but at the same time deny women’s right? As you dare to presents “Mango soufflé” gay’s world, which again raises public issue in India, do you dare to present your “30 days in September” in revolt?
Again your 30 days in September was superb and I can’t deny the fact that it was good. The bonus lies in the good presentation by the actors and the actresses themselves! Good script blend with good voices, simple setting yet achieved great impact among the audience. A huge credis to them.

Fouziah Hanim Bt Ismail
119983,pkpg TESL UPM

A JOB WELL DONE!

2004-08-03T23:12:00.000-07:00

I strongly believed that the play was written in many of the issues raised which are highly relevant to today’s audience. The emotional impact of the play remains intact and continues to intrigue and mystify its audiences. Firstly, it showed the importance of the counsellor to take Mala as a patient and "cure" her so that she may return to society as a well-adjusted and "normal" individual. This indicated the turning point for a patient like Mala. The play is centered on symbolic use of a toy and staging. The set, sound, costumes and solid performances of the actors all contributed in making the performance a stimulating one, but also one that provoked the audience to explore and examine issues such as obsession, mental illness, religion and sexuality. The superb cast contributed a great deal to the performance, in particular the exceptional performance of one of the main characters, Mala. I believed that Mahesh Dattani has wonderfully portrayed the character's inner conflict. Both mother and daughter have presented incredibly moving and powerful performances. Through their relationship onstage had shown extremely convincing and their performances complimented each others style. Furthermore, I preferred the choice of staging which was considered practical and aided the performance, and the backdrop contributed effectively to the mood and atmosphere of the play.
The lights also gave assistance in making the actors stand out more, but were basically kept simple. Apart from that, I could also sense the powerful voices of the actors aided in the effect of the eye-piercing scene. Moreover, costumes were simple, yet suitable. It is indeed a job well done.
Hoh Siew Lan UPM

30days in september...so touching

2004-08-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

First of all I would like to say that the music at the beginning of the play was beautiful. As I love classical music, the music really captured my heart. Anyway, that is not the issue that Mahesh Dattani wants to convey in this play but in "Thirty Days in September", Mahesh Dattani had convey a very important message to the audience. The play is about a current issue that is not been spoken by society but it is happening in the society. I am lucky that I was not given the booklet that we are suppose to read before watching the play. It is because the are some suspense in the play that the audience shouldn’t know about it before watching it. For instance, audiences came to know that Mala’s mother was also a victim of sex abuse at the end of the play. From Mala’s behaviour at the beginning of the play, actually I thought she is a spoiled girl and simply can’t stand the way she speak to her mother but as the play goes on, I knew that she is living out of frustration and she always blame her mother for not being protective towards the daughter. Mala has gone through a horrible life as her own uncle had sexually abused her for few years. As a kid she doesn’t even know what was happening to her, she was just seven years old. She grew up feeling guilty and she also sees her uncle everywhere. May be this is just a play but I wonder how do the real victims go through their life feeling guilty and humiliated. Anyway, just one thing that I would like to know, why Mala did not report this to the authority. I could understand why Shanta was keeping quiet, as it was 40 or may be fifty years ago where women got no saying in society. Mala, on the other hand, is a modern(from her appearance)and educated girl but why has she been portrayed as too afraid to report this matter. I don't think so women are that innocent/ignorent nowadays. Lastly, i would like to say that the actors and actress did their part very well. I really enjoyed all the scenes in the play. I would like to say that this play has given us a important message and touched my heart. Congratulations to all the actors and actress. Thank you.

By,
Davamalar Atmalingam
112336

You've just got me connected! Bravo!!!

2004-08-03T05:35:00.000-07:00

I would like to draw your attention that this play has found a place in my heart. And if anyone out there who has not got himself'herself connected to the message delivered in the play I feel so sorry for you because you are in your own world and a cold blooded creature. The message is clear and precise. It has hit the bull's eye. Someone out there needs your help. People like us are so fortunate and we need to thank our lucky stars. People who have been abused sexually, physically or even going through any kind of torment throughout their childhood will be in great pains and be scarred for their rest of their lives. The play has addressed the issue and also the way that her fiancee has come to the rescue of the sexually abused girl called 'Mala '. Adults who witness the incidents would definitely get away from it by being silent. I had been a victim of child abuse when I was bearly 10. My father knew that my stepmother physically handled us. She clapped, punched, whacked with a broomstick, pushed my head against the wall, hit my head with a ladle, pulled my hair and dragged me a few feet before it came to a stop and many other forms of physical punishment either the actions were right or wrong. I told my father about it but my father said that she did that for my own good. My siblings and I withstood the pains and sufferings till we were 18. That period of time we were living in hell. I had thought of committing suicide and wanted to run away from the house. It was a miracle that I could survive after all these times because my class teacher and her husband helped me go through the long suffering. They were there for me and I hope that someone would be sensitive to people thay mix with to help these unfortunate people. Thanks God that this play is staged and many have witnessed and watched it. Don't just only say and comment that it is a good play but Dattani's play has sent out a strong message to the people to act on it. People, don't sit on it. Who knows that it may happen to one of our family members and you are not aware of it. Dattani, and the people who stage the play, well done and you can earn my respect, that is a sure thing. God bless.I am not completely healed but I am trying to put all these behind me. Thanks again Dattani and the crew.

ChanCheeKongUPM

2004-08-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

I got the message the night before watching the play and I am very eager to watch the real act in stage. Congratulations, it is very interesting play,I enjoy watching it than reading. The actors done their job very well. I am amazed with their performance.The issue that being brought up through this play is the issue that we cannot ignore. Every now and then, there is a new "Mala" that appears and it would not stop until audience or the society realize how miserable life that this person have gone through.The portrayal character of "The Man" that I like most.He portrays his character through expression. His mimic,his expression, language and action conveys his message. Although he has limited script, he plays with emotion.He is the portrayal of how cunning a man take advantages towards woman. That is the fact, that is happening in real life. Actually, this is my third experience in watching English theatre and from it I learn how to get the message that the writer wants to convey. HidayahAyob 112349

30daysinseptember/mdattani

2004-08-02T21:46:00.000-07:00

The play is marvelous. Actors are superb, especially the “man”. He has the characteristics of Robert DeNiro. Simple settings but powerful significance. Voice of thunder achieves dramatic effect. Powerful and clear voice projection. This play will achieve better if there is a gap of space for the audience to ponder and guess of the real situation. Maybe sort of investigating sequence of guessing who is the “man”? when everything is being informed, I feel like there is very little of suspense in the play. The sequence when the mother said Mala enjoyed being touched by his cousins is not justified as a state of her own consent or is she being forced?
Congratulations. It is a superb play.

Lockkwupm 2004

Congratulations! What A Tremendous Play!

2004-08-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Sir,

Firstly,I would like to congratulate you on the sucess of your play on the theme of 'child abuse'which I'm sure have touched many of the audiences. Actually,the first play that I watched was your play titled "Dance Like a Man" which was very much different from this play.I have to say that I enjoyed reading the final draft of your play "Thirty Days in September" and I was eager to watch the play after reading your final draft. I could understand the play better because I read it before I watched it. The theme of the play "child abuse" had indeed open my eyes to the same issue that is happening in Malaysia now. The play is showing the reality of what is really happening outside that others don't really know about.Everyday,in the newspapers I can see that children are being raped and sexually abused by their own father or brother heartlessly.I feel that the play has not only opened my eyes about this issue but also the eyes of others who have watched the play.
On the other hand,the play was very well performed by the actors and actresses that it was superb indeed. Congratulations to them too! There were some minor erotic scenes in the play that I taught the actress would be performing but I was gald that they did not actually performed it the way it should.Lastly,I must thank the actor and actresses for spending some time with us after the play to answer some of our questions which we were not clear about the play. For instance the significance of the doll facing different directions after certain scenes and many more. The question and answer session was a great help to us. Thanks again!

Melisa Charles Benedict

TESL Semester 7 2004

Excellent... Great... Marvelous

2004-08-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Mr.Dattani. Well, what can I say? An Excellent play from an excellent director. Sir, this the 2nd time I'm watching your play. The 1st one I watched was Dance Like a Man. I really enjoyed myself for the play and sir, believe it or not, this play really touched the bottom of my heart. When I was watching the play, I felt as if I'm also involved with the actors and the characters they play. I did not perceive the play like a 'play', meaning that, to me what was happening on the stage is something real. It's not just a play. Sir, you have showed us what is actually happening in the world right now. The sufferings of the mother and daughter are pictured beautifully. One being silence while the other being more rebellious. Sir, your play is an eye opener for a lot of people out there, who claims that girls, ladies and women are raped because they don't know how to carry themselves. They are raped because they provoke the men. Sir, how can a 6 or 7 year old girl arouse a men? I guess,your play would give an answer for that question. Sir, I'm glad that your play is staged during the time where a lot of these cases are being highlited here, in Malaysia. Well done Mr Dattani. Millions and millions of thanks to you for coming with such and excellent play. Trust me Sir, I will never ever forget this play for the rest of my life.

Usha Devi Subramaniam
Tesl(Semester 07)2004.

Excellent Performance

2004-08-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

Watching the play was an eye opener to me. Never had I realised that the turmoil and turbulent in the victim's feeling. It was unbearable to think that the same incident can happen to us, in our family and most of all if it happens to an innocent child. The play has opened our views that there are ways that we can do in helping these innocent victims. Dattani has managed to give us the inner view of the victim's mind. By doing so, we can play our role. It teaches us how to deal with the problem. Though we can't really avoid that from happening the least that we can do is lessening the burden faced by the victim. For all these learning experience, we owed a lot to the four wonderful actors who had given us the most excellent performance. Especially "Mamu" who had really shown a great act! SALUTE TO YOU! Nobody likes to be the bad guy, but in this play due to his "excellent performance" the bad guy was the powerful element that has evoked the emotional involvement into the play. I and almost every body I think can't help feeling so disgusted when the mother revealed that she also had been the victim when she was six. Congratulation to all you!

Sarimah Mohd Salleh

Well Done!

2004-08-02T06:44:00.000-07:00

The play was really one of the excellent and impressive way of highlighting the sexual abuse of a child, that is happening in our society nowadays.I believe that once innocence is rip off from a child, it will destroys their trust and hope for a true loving and care from people close to them. As can be seen in Mala character. It is sad to see the two victims, the mother and the daughter, can not find comfort in each other. They went through the same horrible ordeal and dealing with the same 'demon' inside of them. Mala finds her own comfort in the arms of strange men and her mother finds solitude in her own world of worshipping.I am just wondering why is it so? Of course different individual has her own way of keeping herself sane but why are they fighting with each other? Why do they turn their backs on one another? For me,it is such a wonderful play and having these kind of questions indicate that the play did manage to trigger audiences' awareness of how important it is family support and understanding.For the actors and actresses, they are the "open windows" for audiences to see the inner conflicts of the abused victims.WELL DONE AGAIN!

Nancy Sylvester

simple, meaningful and apprehended.

2004-08-01T21:15:00.001-07:00

The play was simple but superb in terms of conveying messages. one thing i like about indian production is it brings up the issues in the society. it makes me think critically. why i'm saying this play was simple but meaningful? it's simple because you have only four actors to perform many characters and if i'm not mistaken mamu had played the role of a man in the lounge (Richard)and a man in the restaurant whereby deepak has other role as the psyciatry. there are two parts i like most, first is the scene where mamu came in mala's mind where he rhymes what he had said to her when she was 7. i think that scene is the climax to my perception. the other part is the scene where the two settings intertwined at one time.it is not an easy task. bravo!!!it seems alive and give greater impact to the audience.

Hasaliza Hazari

simple, meaningful and apprehended.

2004-08-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

thank you

2004-07-31T23:26:00.000-07:00

dear students
Thank you very much for your responses to my play 30 Days in September. I am happy to note that some of you have raised some really pertinent questions. Why is Shanta silent about her abuse? From my research I discovered that many of the people I talked to were at some point (before they had access to therapy or counselling) completely 'locked' in their traumatic experience. They were unable to protect their own siblings when the abuse happened to them. Sadly an abuser doesn't stop at one. One victim's silence can encourage him to continue to perpetrate his crime. On the other hand there are some who become completely overprotective of their daughters or younger siblings out of fear that any male adult can abuse them. As a dramatist I had to make my choices.

Another point that was raised was the immense hatred of Mala towards her mother's God. Anger and resentment are the common emotions such a truamatic experience can evoke. The person loses his or her ability to cope with these feelings rationally due to the sheer power of these feelings. Misplaced anger is common. the anger is misdirected on oneself or someone close. Very many women tend to misplace their anger on to their mothers since they assume that the role of the nurturer belongs only to the mother. That is where the sense of betrayal is strongest. Or it is a lack of self esteem (most abusers are clever enought to leave their victims with a low self esteem so that they end up blaming themselves). The irony of misplaced or internalised anger in the play is that while Mala cannot cope with her own feelings initially, she does not allow her mother to cope with her feeling which she is trying to sublimate through prayer. What therapy is to most modern men and women, religion and prayer has the same healing capacity to many traditonal people both young and old. I do not blame Mala for doing this though. To me the play ends with some healing having taken place when she embraces her mother and asks for her forgiveness. And the mother, in returning her embrace has forgiven. The scars may remain but the healing process has begun.

I am sorry if I rambled on a bit! But feel free to ask more questions and I will be glad to respond when I have the time.

all the best
Mahesh Dattani