Renowned Guyanese playwright Ronald Hollingsworth promises that patrons will leave the National Cultural Centre in “stitches” and “tears” when his latest production $83 Million Gees unfolds tonight and tomorrow.
The satirical play, which features a string of popular actors, takes a look at the socio, political and economic struggles of Guyanese.
It examines a multi-cultural group of Guyanese who are frustrated with their economic status and decide to steal $83 million from the national coffers. According to the storyline, this action becomes a vicious struggle as each party demands unreasonable portions of the money.
Hollingsworth said he wrote the award winning play in 1997, but he believes the play is even more relevant to current affairs than in 1997. He stressed that the play is good for the local stage, although some portions will be challenging.
Hollingsworth, who is well known for his Watch De Ride and Til Ah Find a Place productions which soared on the local scene in the years gone by, said that in addition to mirth, the audience will walk away feeling justified that if they change they can positively contribute to the development of Guyana.
The cast of $83 Million Gees includes the well-liked Mahadeo Shivraj who left New York specifically to be a part of the play. He plays the lead role, with strong support coming from Lloyda Nicholas, Derek Gomes and Michael Ignatius.
Shameeza Husein plays the role of the 75-year-old penny pincher, and a strong defender of her son’s ill-gotten gains. Chris Gopaul and Mark Kazim will also feature in the drama.
Hollingsworth has teamed up with Sheron Cadogan-Taylor to pull off this production and since he is based overseas, she has been holding the reigns in his absence.
Tickets for $83 Million Gees are on sale at the National Cultural Centre, Giftland Office Max and Ashmin’s and cost $1,000, $1,200 and $1,500.
