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From Salesman to Stage: Swanand Kirkire's New Play
4 Nov
Summary
- Swanand Kirkire returns to theatre after a decade-long hiatus.
- The musical draws inspiration from Kirkire's own vacuum cleaner sales experiences.
- The play explores shifts in aspiration during India's economic liberalization.
Swanand Kirkire, a celebrated lyricist and actor, is set to return to the theatre stage after a significant hiatus. He will premiere 'Yo Brother, This Is 95 - A Musical' at the Prithvi Theatre Festival, marking his return as a writer and director after a decade and as an actor after five years.
The musical is deeply personal, inspired by Kirkire's own phase in the early 1990s when he worked as a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesperson. Set in 1995, the narrative follows a group of young salespeople striving to succeed amidst a world increasingly defined by targets and consumerism.
Kirkire explains that the play reflects India's entry into a new era of aspirations and economic liberalization. It delves into how these shifts impacted relationships and perceptions of success, exploring these themes through humor and music. The play aims to tell the story of ordinary people, their dreams, and the inevitable compromises they face.
His own challenging experiences with rejection and humiliation as a salesperson provided rich material, teaching him valuable life lessons. Kirkire believes theatre's magic lies in its direct audience connection and collaborative spirit, a form he cherishes for its freedom, spontaneity, and the unique joy of collective creation.
