Socialite Anju Taraporevala makes her stage debut with Murder on the Menu, where she plays a wife who cons her ex-husband. She tells Aastha Atray Banan how acting helps her escape the monotony of daily life

Why did you suddenly decide to take up acting?
I was performing regularly during my college days. After getting married and having children, you begin to put things, especially yourself, on the backburner. Now that my kids are grown up, I decided to go for the audition. I was surprised when they chose me.

What excited you about the play?
I read the script only two days prior to the audition. I was instantly struck by the feel-good script. 

How was it working with director Raell Padamsee?
The talented bunch was great fun to work with; I learnt a lot.

What do you think of the interactive theme?
I think the gimmick will pay off. The audience will feel part of the play, and it will be an unusual experience
for them.

How did it feel to play a vindictive wife?
My character, Flora, may seem vindictive but she is just dumb. It's not easy to do comedy and get the comic timing down pat. But you have to constantly improvise to get under the skin of the character. And though Flora may come across as someone you may not like, I've tried to make sure the audience feels for her.

How did you get roped into doing Raell's next play, Rumours?
I have watched Rumours on Broadway; it's a great show, and I am thrilled to be playing the lead.

aastha.atray@mid-day.com

Murder on the Menu is on at Tata Theatre, NCPA, Nariman Point, on December 6 at 7 pm