Adapting a classic play across cultural lines is a delicate art, but Little Thespian’s new production Chehre achieves this seamlessly. Adapted by the late S. M. Azhar Alam from Tony Devaney Morinelli’s American play Sins of the Mother, the drama transplants the core theme of inherited family trauma into a contemporary Indian Muslim household.
Performed at Kolkata’s Gyan Manch on July 22, 2026, the play delivered a stark, emotional, and unforgettable exploration of domestic suppression, addiction, and generational scars.Director Uma Jhunjhunwala brings seasoned finesse to the production, guiding the audience through a narrative that feels acutely relevant to modern Indian society. The story lays bare how systemic emotional violence and abuse cycle through generations—leaving young women trapped between duty, survival, and deep-seated despair.
The strength of Chehre lies squarely on the shoulders of its talented ensemble cast, who bring raw vulnerability and fierce intensity to their roles: Gunjan Azhar (as Razia) delivered the standout performance of the evening, Gunjan’s portrayal of Razia was magnetic. She captured the anguish, quiet defiance, and psychological weight of living in a claustrophobic, abusive environment with extraordinary nuance. Sangeetha Vyas (as Amma) was the matriarch at the center of the storm, Vyas brought a chilling authenticity to a character consumed by her own inner demons and destructive patterns.Chandreyee Mitra (Amina) adequately portrayed her soft power for the delicate mechanics of sisterhood and survival under oppressive circumstances. Acting of Nupur Bhoutika (Nasima), and Annie Das (Ishrat) offered the supporting cast exceptional depth.
Their dynamic interactions created a palpably tense domestic atmosphere. The production design subtly elevated every dramatic beats. The set design effectively accentuated the feeling of domestic entrapment, making the stage feel like an inescapable pressure cooker for the family. Murari Raychoudhury’s music design score provided an eerie, subtle backdrop that heightened emotional tension without ever overpowering the dialogue.
The Light Design by Joydeep Roy shifted masterfully to reflect the inner turmoil and isolated moments of the characters, casting symbolic shadows across the stage. Director Uma Jhunjhunwala’s vision, supported by Assistant Director Md. Asif Ansari, ensured the pace never slackened, maintaining a tight emotional grip on the audience from start to finish.
Chehre is not just an adaptation; it is a vital, haunting mirror held up to contemporary social realities. Little Thespian has delivered a deeply moving piece of theatre that honors Morinelli’s original vision while giving it a compelling Indian voice. Driven by Uma Jhunjhunwala’s masterful direction and Gunjan’s powerhouse performance as Razia, Chehre stands out as a triumphant success in Kolkata’s cultural calendar.
Presented by: Little Thespian, Kolkata
Venue: Gyan Manch, Kolkata
Date & Time: July 22, 2026 | 6:30 PM
Adaptation: S. M. Azhar Alam
Design & Direction: Uma Jhunjhunwala
