Queen Mary's Tamil Society
Deep Cover
Monday 15th December 2008
Logan Hall - London


Review : Amrith Balasingham
Photos : Ben Waran


Despite the later than advertised start, the Queen Mary’s Tamil Society delivered a stellar and energised performance at the Logan Hall on a cold and crisp December night.

 
Jason Eswaran and Anujen Vijayarahaven stamped their marks on another strong production this year with the ‘Deep Cover’ play. A good plotline that kept the audience engaged, coupled to a strong supporting cast set the standard for the remaining shows for the year. The star of the show was without doubt the underused Vasy, aka Raji Nesarajah.
Her goofy take on the “mean’ girl’s” best friend was played with a subtle ease that stole many scenes where she had very few lines. Enough about Vasy, lest it not be forgotten, this was also a musical and dance show and there were some excellent productions this year.
 
Suthan S opened with his fellow performers with “Mix Tape”, a Medley of Tamil hits.  The standout acts were without doubt “Kanna Ithu Puthusu” and Illusion - Mayilda Manada”. It is interesting to note that since Kings Face Off Production began a few years ago, the scale of the University dance performances have improved siginificantly.
 
The choreography for these two showcase dances were incredibly complex and those worth a mention included Brinthan Varathalingam, Rathi Buvanendra, Tharsha Varathalingam, Jeya Raveendran, Tharsika Karunakaran, Shindy Ratnaselvam, Meetnatchy Kanagasapay and Kajakulan Raveendran. I hope I haven’t missed anyone out there!

Kanna Ithu Puthusu - Choreographed by Rathi B & Brinthan V

The Logan Hall did an excellent job of enhancing an already strong show. Did the show match the reference status set by such shows as Megal Maalai 2006. I would say not. QM Tamil Society have set a high benchmark however against which other shows this year will be judged. On a cold December night, there was nowhere I would rather have been. The committee led by President Deepa Panchalingam should be given a hearty round of applause.