Curtains Up: My Journey Through Stage and Speech

Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech?

Curtains Up: My Journey Through Stage and Speech

The stage, a place where emotions transcend the ordinary, where words breathe life into the air, has always been my second home. From the tender days of school to the bustling corridors of university, and through the disciplined yet vibrant life of a teacher in residential schools, I have found myself entwined in the magic of performance and rhetoric. The spotlight, for me, is not just illumination but revelation—a beacon of expression, imagination, and connection.

Acts That Shaped Me

My theatrical journey began early, as I donned characters that were as diverse as life itself. From the haunting depths of Beyond the Reasonable Doubt to the whimsical charm of The Prince Who Was a Piper, each role was a window into uncharted worlds. Plays like The Fur Flies, The Man in the Bowler’s Hat, and The Bishop’s Candlestick were not merely productions; they were collaborations of thought and creativity, where every actor, prop, and dialogue became a thread in the rich tapestry of storytelling.

Directing these performances was an entirely different thrill—a confluence of leadership, vision, and empathy. Guiding students and even teachers through the labyrinth of drama, I found that the stage became not just an art form but a lesson in life itself.

Oratory: A Symphony of Words

Parallel to the art of acting was my love affair with speech. A voracious speaker, I was often the harbinger of mornings at school assemblies, where students and staff alike awaited the cadence of my words. Declamations and debates were arenas where I sharpened my wit and honed my articulation.

Winning numerous competitions was gratifying, but standing second at the state level in Odisha remains a cherished memory—not for the position but for the validation of my voice. Speech, for me, was never about mere rhetoric; it was philosophy set to rhythm, English literature breathing poetry, and thoughts distilled into impactful expression.

The Philosophical Stage

The theatre and the podium, while distinct, share a philosophical essence. As Shakespeare mused in As You Like It, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” Every act, whether on the physical stage or the metaphorical one, demands a certain courage—to step into roles, to confront fears, and to project oneself with authenticity.

Likewise, the art of speech calls to mind Cicero’s De Oratore, where he emphasises that eloquence is not mere fluency but the marriage of wisdom and language. Whether addressing a debate audience or speaking to the young minds in assembly, I have always strived to uphold this harmony, blending erudition with accessibility.

A Symphony of Experience

Looking back, my life on the stage and at the podium has been a symphony—a blend of tragedy, comedy, and poignant reflections. Each role played, each speech delivered, has been a note in the melody of my existence.

It has taught me the power of presence, the art of persuasion, and, most importantly, the magic of connection. As a teacher, these experiences enriched my ability to engage and inspire students, to teach not just through textbooks but through the vivacity of real-world interactions.

The Curtain Never Falls

Even in the quietude of retirement, the spirit of performance remains. Writing, blogging, and reminiscing are my new stages, where words once again take centre stage. The philosophy of acting and speaking has embedded itself in my very being—a constant reminder that life itself is the greatest performance, where every moment is an opportunity to act, speak, and inspire.

The curtain, in truth, never falls.