Exclusive: 'Working in theatre feels like a fresh start,' says Param Singh

Param Singh features in the Indian adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s play ‘Hedda Gabler’

Param Singh who was last seen in Sony’s ‘Ishk Par Zor Nahi’ is all set to return to theatre where he features in the Indian adaptation of Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen’s play ‘Hedda Gabler.’ The actor speaks to mid-day.com about all that’s in store!

We hear that you will soon be seen in an Indian adaptation of Ibsen’s ‘Hedda Gabler’ called ‘Hardit Kaur Gill’…
I am playing the role of the husband to the female protagonist and the name of my character is Devendra Malhotra (Dev.) I am portraying the role of a passionate writer who is very charming, good hearted and honest, but also has grey shades. The dark side unfurls during the climax. My role shares a different bond with every character in the play. I relate to this trait in the sense that every human responds differently to every person they come across. In a way, I am portraying five different characters in a single role and that’s something I love the most about it. The play also touches base with complexities that occur in a marriage and how one should deal with them. I mainly work on balancing the differences that persist between the characters of my wife and aunt in the play without looking timid.

What are the differences according to you between theatre and other mediums?
In theatre, one needs to project because the audience is seated everywhere whereas other mediums utilise mics mainly. One has to be audible enough for the audience to comprehend the plot better. All in all, I believe that one needs to behold truth and honesty in their role irrespective of the medium one is acting on. There is a vast difference between television and theatre. Theatre is based more on characterisation and has a definite end. On the other hand, episodes for a television show telecast everyday and scripts for it change at times. Directions and instructions are given on both platforms and one has to surrender to them but how they would be executed and represented differs mainly. For me, acting my part and gaining satisfaction from it is utmost important.

How does it feel working in theatre after a decade?
I entirely love the feel of working in theatre again and it feels like a fresh start. The passion for my craft is back and it’s like reinventing myself .It involves learning and unlearning a lot of things. I am blessed to have got the opportunity to work with veterans like KK Raina ji and Ila Arun ma’am. I am hoping for the audience to like it.

Theatre artists generally have a very sharp acumen and refined expressions. What according to you makes their skills exemplary?
I feel that theatre is an actor’s medium, devoid of cuts, retakes and camera gives an artist the opportunity to be themselves through the course of the performance. It’s a beautiful thing to just be in your character and let me tell you it’s no cakewalk. I think mastering the art of retaining the composure throughout the play earns theatre artists a lot of esteem.

Your thoughts on feminism, since the play addresses the subject…
The true meaning of feminism would be equality. There should be an unbiased approach towards all irrespective of gender. It’s a must to establish standards of respect for women in the society for all the wrongs that happen, but the system should ensure that undue advantage of this right is not taken as well.

Also Read: It’s a birthday with loved ones for actor Param Singh

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