Before shooting to fame on the big screen, Boman Irani had already proved and been revered for his mettle on stage. The actor was last seen taking the curtain call in 2005 for I'm Not Bajirao. This Sunday, he reprises not one but two roles to raise funds for his alma mater, St Mary's School that completes 150 years
Boman Irani
Q. After a 9-year hiatus, you are back on stage. What did you miss the most about the world of theatre?
A. It’s not a hiatus as I am constantly acting on screen. It’s the same discipline and same commitment one has to a character. Acting is acting, be it for the stage or for the screen.
Boman Irani during a rehearsal of the play, Rusty Screws. PIC courtesy/Danesh Khambata
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Q. Tell us about the St Mary’s School ICSE connect. You did plays in school too. What was your most exhilarating moment on stage?
A. Every moment on stage is an exhilarating moment. That is why actors are up on stage — to feel that exhilaration. The school connect is in fact deeper than I thought. Not only are the director Meherzad, and I from the same school, it so happens that he and my son Kayoze are from the same class. Members of the entire cast, barring the female actor, (it’s a boys-only school) are ex-students of our school, across different batches.
These are professional actors from different batches who have come together to form a professional theatre company called Silly Point Productions, and it is a great achievement. It makes this show of Rusty Screws all the more special, as every one of us is passionate about giving back to the school. The entire ticket sales are going towards
St Mary’s School in light of us celebrating 150 years of the school.
Q. You and Meherzad share a great rapport and philosophy about theatre acting. In an interview he said he follows your methods. What are they?
A. This is something you would have to ask Meherzad … from what he’s mentioned; it’s the basics of theatre that they all follow even today. It’s just a basic discipline of how to be on stage. There is no magic trick to it or special skill required. As long as you can follow the basics and show commitment to your performance, you have won half the battle.
(Left) Director of the play, Meherzad Patel was classmates with Kayoze (extreme right)
Q. The role that you play is confronted with the family vs the world debate. Have you ever faced a similar dilemma?
A. Luckily I’m not portraying that character; Danesh Irani plays the confronted character. I’m playing a double role in the play — both are characters that confront Danesh Irani. One character is that of a school principal, which is portrayed with utmost respect and dignity and it is very light-hearted. We have ensured not to poke fun at the principal; instead we have glorified his presence. Our teachers have made us what we are today. The other character is that of a South Indian hot-headed boss, something that has been a pleasure to portray, as the challenge of getting out of your comfort zone is most pleasing.
On June 1, 5 pm and 7.30 pm
At NCPA, Nariman Point.
Call 22824567 Cost '500 onwards
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