Sushant Herlekar, Gopal Datt, and Siddharth Padiyar in performance. Pics Courtesy/Instagram

Datt will take stage with musicians Shantanu Herlekar and Siddharth Padiyar to present songs from plays such as producer Akash Khurana’s Namak Mirch, inspired by the satirical writings of Pakistani writer Shuakat Thanvi, and actor-producer Manav Kaul’s experimental play Aisa Kehte Hai, a poignant love story. “Writing music for the stage is a unique experience. Unlike films, you can’t place a song between scenes. These songs play a central part in holding the act together,” Dutt remarks. Between performing the songs today, the artiste will give audiences a sneak peek of the context these songs were written in, and what went into bringing them to life.

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In addition to the songs that made the cut, the artiste will present candid songs written in homes, during travels, and backstage with close friends. “Theatre life is not for the weak. There would be days where the humble vada pav would help us power through a day of work. On other days, we’d be getting an earful from our seniors for being late to rehearsals. These are moments that I look back upon fondly now. They’re memorialised in these songs,” he laughs, adding that there’s inherent irony in how hundreds of aspiring artistes, fuelled by passion, happily walk into these hardships every year.      

Before signing off, we nudge Datt about his evident love for satire, and if he ever considers switching to other comedic styles. “The genre has always fascinated me. Its ability to make a strong point while managing to entertain diverse audiences is unmatchable. Over the years, it has helped me and my collaborators take some bold stances through our art. For that, it’ll always be a part of me,” he concludes.

ON Today; 6 pm
AT The Habitat, Hotel 
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