PTA premieres in Hyderabad: A deep dive into parental and educational responsibilities

In an age where communication between parents and educators is more crucial than ever, a thought-provoking play titled PTA is set to unfold in Hyderabad. The play delves into the complexities of a conversation between a teacher and a mother in the wake of a tragic event at school. Through its gripping narrative, PTA raises compelling questions about the shared responsibility of shaping a child's understanding of the world.

Set in a confined classroom environment, PTA is a deeply conversational play that demands its audience's full attention. The story revolves around an urgent meeting between a mother and a teacher regarding an unsettling incident involving a fifth-grade child. As their discussion unfolds, layers of misunderstanding, negligence, and the impact of unsupervised information on young minds are revealed. Without assigning blame, the play presents a nuanced portrayal of how both parental and educational figures influence a child's perception.

Written and directed by two passionate theatre artists, the play is an 80-minute emotional journey that focuses more on dialogues than theatrics. The writers were inspired by real-life incidents and extensive discussions with educators, shaping a script that forces audiences to introspect. "We are not trying to point fingers," says Jonas David, who also plays the teacher. "Rather, we want viewers to reflect on the role of communication and supervision in a child’s life."

Unlike conventional productions, PTA follows a minimalist stage design, enhancing the intensity of its conversations. The set is designed to evoke a sense of claustrophobia, heightening the emotional stakes. The two characters, played by the writers themselves, navigate a power dynamic where no single party is at fault. Instead, the play compels the audience to contemplate the factors that led to the situation.

Chandani Agarwal, who portrays the mother, adds, "This play is about awareness. It’s about asking ourselves if we are really paying attention to what children are exposed to and how they interpret the world around them."

Hyderabad’s theatre scene is largely known for its preference for comedy and lighthearted performances, but PTA dares to challenge this norm. The city, however, has been gradually embracing heavier themes, as seen in past productions that tackled bold and difficult subjects. "Audiences here are evolving," notes Jonas. "They are ready for plays that make them think, that leave them with questions rather than answers."

As the play premieres, it stands as a testament to the importance of conversations that are often avoided. Through PTA, the creators hope to spark dialogue about the responsibilities that come with shaping young minds, making it a must-watch for parents, educators, and anyone invested in the complexities of human relationships.

₹300. February 7 and 9, 7.30 pm. At Yogibear Collectives, Begumpet.