A heavy dose of laughter

The words “contemporary” and “accessible” rarely sit comfortably together in a single sentence, let alone in a single performing arts show. So it’s worth taking note when that pair of adjectives turns out to be a good description of the recently concluded Live Comedy Show.It’s fair to use the term “contemporary” because the comedy focussed on aesthetic, cultural and socio-political issues related to our times. “Accessible”, because many of the works had definite entertainment value as well, which made it possible for different kinds of audiences to enjoy the evening.The show covered songs, dances and slapstick comedy. Organised by ace comedian Pappu Pom Pom and some of his friends from the film and TV industry, Pappu made the audience laugh out loud, squeal with delight, clap in glee and almost roll on the floor! Most importantly, he taught them to take themselves a little less seriously. The stand-up comedian provided the evening of ROFL at the Utkal Mandap here on Monday. The best part of the event was that the proceedings from the show went to Ashakiran, a home for the orphans here. The comedian presented a variety of skits, solo comedy scenes, a ‘Pala’ and some scenes from his show ‘Faltu Katha’.He said the show was organised to honour yesteryear comedians. “In the process, an amount of `1 lakh was collected and this was donated to Ashakiran on the spot,” said Pappu, adding that the comedy show was a huge hit with the audience. He said the show was organised in the wake of demand by people who mostly get to see comedy in TV or films. In fact, this was perhaps the first-of-its kind live comedy show in the State.Pappu feels his connect with audiences clicks largely because he’s an out-and-out entertainer, and creates a bond with people without the pretensions of an intellectual commentator, theatre artist or ‘comedian’. “People don’t push the bar in Odisha,” he says, adding: “If there’s one Johny Lever, then 20 people want to be Johny Lever.” Pappu feels it’s more important to build on natural strengths and market yourself as an individual. Which is exactly what he’s doing.