Padatik Natya Sangshad presents Mousetrap
Christie's The Mousetrap is set against the backdrop of post World War II Britain. It covers the period marked by rebuilding, a new monarchy, food shortages, and the threat of Communism. Whole sections of the nation have been destroyed in the bombings and London, in particular, is undergoing a rebirth.
The post war unstable condition of the state is reflected in the psyche of the Britons. As a result, suppressed evil instincts such as jealousy, hypocrisy, cruelty and others come to the fore. Christie's play successfully reflects the crisis.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The Mousetrap was initially performed as a radio play in 1952 and was broadcast by the BBC with the title Three Blind Mice. Later, The Mousetrap became a stage play. The Mousetrap has broken several records for its continuous theatrical run since its opening.
The story line of the play is simple-- a fake police officer comes to investigate the murder case in a rest house owned by a young couple. Through the investigation, it is evident that neither the hosts or the guests is above suspicion. Though none of them was criminally linked with the murder, none of them can boldly claim himself or herself as innocent, which means everyone is under suspicion.
Director Mir Mahbub Alam Selim could not create a dramatic conflict, while the required pace for the play has not been maintained.
M Shaiful Islam's set design deserves plaudits. With polythene and iron, he has created an artistic replica of a hall room of a two storeyed building. The unpolished red colour of his set represents the relics of a post-war building.
Shaiful's light design is also commendable. Through symbolic colour effects and dark-shadow effects he has caught the mood and tempo of the play.
Realistic European attires have been used as the costumes of the play.
All of the performers, except Kaniz Fatema in the role of Mrs Bowel, need to develop their histrionic skills. Artistes should pay attention to pronunciation and articulation during dialogue delivery.