Sonali Sundar Reward Points : 10500 Member Since : Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Operas are played in different parts of Orissa. What is the difference between a drama and a Opera?
Posted On : 3/31/2009 2:41:33 AM
Umesh Upadhayay Reward Points : 31200 Member Since : Tuesday, December 25, 2007
hi ... Both opera and drama are equally popular in Orissa. But before delving into much detail let us understand what is an Orissan Opera . an opera in Orissa is somewhat similar to jatra attracting thousands of people. It is held in the open field. The rectangular stage is set in the centre of the audience with the orchestra sitting adjacent to the stage. Beginning with items on the harmonium , clarionet , bugle , mridanga , jhanja , dubi tabla , dholki etc. by the experts of the party, the opera starts with a party of dancing and singing boys appearing in female garbs. The King generally appears in a stereotyped dress and the themes are often historical or mythological. The male actors dressed up as females look artificial. The Duari or Dagara the messenger of the King and the joker are the most interesting characters in the opera. In general, the opera in the villages has very little reference to real life and its problems. themes are larger than life where the make ups and stage decor ideally complements with the theme. However, it has a striking dissimilarity with the age old tradition of drama in Orissa. themes differ largely and also the stage decor. Like the novel and the short story modern drama was the product of Oriya authors exposure to English literature and this exposure is evident amidst the themes and compositions. realistic production marks the striking difference between opera and drama in Orissa.
Opera
