The Matka King
A
PROVOCATIVE FABLE*
By Anosh Irani
Starring: Marvin Ishmael, Anouska Anderson
Kirby, Laara Sadiq, Craig Veroni, Allan Zinyk
Design Team: Robert Gardiner, Marsha Sibthorpe, Barbara Clayden, Noah
Drew
October 16 - November 15, 2003
GAMBLING, PROSTITUTION, HOPE AND REDEMPTION
"I can be a good father to you. If
you let me." ~ Top Rani
In a lyrical story that pits human nature against love and chance, a
landscape of betrayal and redemption comes to life in the red-light district
of Bombay, India. One very powerful eunuch, Top Rani, operates an illicit
lottery through his brothel, and when a gambler who is deeply in debt makes
an unexpected wager, the stakes become life and death. Can a fortune-teller
and a ten year-old girl beat Top Rani at his own game?
Anosh Irani's first full-length play, The Matka King, was presented
in the 2002 ReACT New Plays in Progress reading series. It was also
presented at Factory Theatre in Toronto as part of the 2002 CrossCurrents
Festival, and in Ottawa as part of the National Arts Centre (Ottawa)
English Theatre On the Verge...Theatre New Works Festival 2002.
A Note from Bill
There is nothing more exciting than a premiere on one of our stages; and
the opportunity to present a playwright's first work is rare. Join us for a
wild ride to a very distant world. The Matka King marks our 68th Canadian
premiere.
*Mature audiences only. Subject matter not suited for children.
Supported by
