A biblical drama in opera style, Devan Dilem Devan Velem (which translates to ‘The Lord giveth, the Lord taketh away’) written by Fr Lucas Rodrigues, directed by Avinash Chari, with music direction by Fr Peter Cardozo, was staged at Pilar during the season of Lent.
This Lenten show has a tale of two families — Mario (Fr Joseph Fernandes), his wife Ria (Aplon) and two children Edwin (Oswald) and Merlyn (Alina).
There is Dr Christopher (Fr Baptista) and his daughter Catty (Sylsan) in another family.
While Mario and Ria have grown together in deep faith in God, Dr Christopher is an atheist who believes only in natural powers.
Both the families face several trials and tribulations, making life difficult to live. Mario’s only daughter, Merlyn, has turned blind, but her staunch faith in God helps her to fight all adversities.
On the other hand, Edwin is anxious about his wife, Tina, who is expecting and hopes for a safe delivery.
Unfortunately, the doctor (Boanerges Alvin) informs Edwin that his unborn child is dead and a little later, he loses his spouse as well.
On hearing this, Edwin becomes desperate and rebels against God.
Dr Christopher’s daughter has abnormalities, and he makes all efforts to get her treated by the best of doctors. But without God, will he succeed in treating Catty?
BEHIND THE SCENES
The entire presentation has similarities to the life of Job in the Old Testament. Job faced many trials and tribulations, losing his wife, children and property. But, he had deep faith in God, and in all adversities, he was able to win blessings from God.
In between the main acts, there are several scenes depicting the life of Job and his family. His umpteen possessions and the entire family is taken away, and the test of faith yields fruits for this pious man.
The biblical drama, Devan Dilem Devan Velem, focuses on several misfortunes striking modern families today. How the family members sometimes tend to give up on God when they should soldier on and stay strong in faith has been well depicted on stage.
Each of the artistes has played their roles with ease. Fr Joseph and Aplon, as guardians, extend good support to each other, while Oswald and Alina, as siblings, have enacted their respective characters to perfection.
In the negative role, Fr Baptista stands out and he is ably supported by Sylsan as a daughter. Alvin looks good as the convincing doctor.
In the biblical scenes, there is Joe Menezes playing the role of Job; and Anita, Fr Andrew, Velvin, Jayden extended good support in other characters.
The choreography has been handled by Sheena Gracias, while the background singers include Fr Peter Cardozo, Fr Pio Furtado, Sylvester Borges, Ivan Gonsalves, Cielda Pereira, Sheryl Vaz and Ascenca Fernandes.
They have given their best with melodious singing. The musicians offstage Fr Seneto (guitar), Ludovico (keyboard), Senon (trumpet/violin), Melben (bass), Sameer (drums) have provided appealing music.
It was a good presentation, providing food for the soul during the penitential season of Lent. Such musical operas should do the rounds of parishes across Goa which will help in penitential inspiration among the faithful.