Good Bye Goa..., a tiatr written by Peter Vaz, directed by Wilson Mazarello and presented by Taleigao Dramatic Troupe highlights the migration of Goans and the compulsion to sell ancestral homes and property to non-Goans.
James (Shane da Costa), a banker’s son, falls in love with a fisherman’s daughter, Tanya (Princia D’Souza). After completing his studies, he had promised his fiancée that he would seek a decent job and get married.
But his father, Roger (Joaquim Almeida) has high expectations and wishes that his only son should pursue further studies in America. When he discloses of his relationship with Tanya, James’ mother opposes the marriage, as she wants to maintain status in the society. After much discussion, Roger agrees to allow his son to marry Tanya, before he leaves for America. In Goa, Tanya faces harassment at the hands of her mother-in-law.
Twelve years later, what is the fate of Tanya? Will Roger return to unite with his wife? Will he support his parents financially or will they have to fend for themselves?
‘Good Bye Goa...’ moves at snail’s pace with a dry spell during the first half, but gains momentum in the second half. It speaks about the migration of Goans and the decision of no return. It also throws light on the destiny of guardians left behind and the pressure encountered by them to sell off their properties in order to make ends meet.
As a father, Joaquim Almeida plays a convincing role. As lovebirds, James and Tanya were comfortable with each other. Peter Vaz as a fisherman did step in with gusto before the second half, but could not be figured out as a gentleman thereafter. Xavier Almeida and Ranjeet Shetye extended good support to the main cast. But Maria Fernandes stood out among the rest, especially in her classic natural act as a disabled in the second half.
Sandra D’Souza teamed up with Wellington, Celrich, Frazer and Joaquim for some lighter moments, but could have infused more laughter.
The drama carried a number of songs in varied forms, but solos by Livia da Silva, Shayna Brito and Natsalene Estrocio, duo by Betty and Chelsea, duets by Custodio and Livia, Stacie and Shane were entertaining.
Stage sets by Dominic da Costa, besides live music by Vitorino Araujo and company need to be commended.