Treasure Island

Hello friends,

Drama! Aren’t we all are doing or at least fond of? From the centuries, human is in the search of treasure. Of course, denotation and significance keeps on shifting from one to another. Heard many stories of such treasures, watched plays and even made films but watching the play ‘Treasure Island’ (authored by R.L.Stevension) directed by Polly Findlay is fairly exceptional.  Stage plays very important role when it comes to drama, and even when the viewer is completely aware of the story, responsibility of director and actors are doubled.

If we are thinking this is just search of treasure then should keep in mind that treasure is symbol of the greedy mentality that is fighting. Treasure Island is the price of omnivores in the void. Treasure Island means empty hands still full.

If we talk about the things that everyone can notice, then setting the stage really wins the heart of audience. The audience can still understand that this arrangement is happening as often as is arranged, and that it may be missed to notice without sharp view! Probably not for another reason than this speed is another name of magic!

Interesting to note, these two characters of Pew and Ben Gunn worked even two steps forward than the novel did. Sound effect and choice of designs are also attention-grabbing. The viewer feels as if they are themselves on the deck, later on ship, next jumps to island and at last again to ship. It really one of superb acts.

Yes, the way Jim Hawkins manifests the self as a girl is begin in art as pearls are often used to revolve around things. The way she speaks, ‘I am girl, not a baby!’ brings punch. It breaks gender stereotypes.  It is also insight into coming-of-age tale of a girl who tries to find way in life.

Speaking of the novel’s experience and this drama in particular, there is sense that once in the novel at the very end, there is no treasure at all! It takes time for common reader to understand that no real treasure can be robbed, because it is a treasure of nature. What is the real treasure? The joy of eyes, which can only be felt, seen, enjoyed, known but cannot be robbed or plundered. This does drama at very first sight!

Not only characters who are in search of but also the audience becomes eager to see the treasure in this artistic work. What kind of treasure would it be last seen and how it would be presented on stage in such height when the treasure finally opened and the boiling thrill in the audience might be difficult to describe in words. One point needs to mention is that overall narration skipped even sometimes, means it also quite confusing for those who are unacquainted of novel. Fights of sword are also needs more threat as in novel.

Thanks to all incredible artists, director and also to National Theatre who have allowed sharing ‘Treasure Island’ in this way during a time when many theatre fans are not able to stopover their local theatre.  This 1 hour and 50 minutes worth watching. It is not just like paying and earning but investing! This really hits back.

This is the video link when this drama was opened at YouTube from 16th to 19th April, 2020.

Thank you.