In late Sixties, I was baptized in theatre by the "Nizhal Nadaga Vizha" held at Sarawathi Hall, Bampalapitiya.
This was my first contact with classical theatre with many talented actors, actresses and directors partaking in this drama festival.
Laddis Veeramani is one of them. Super class actor, Director, Singer, Villu Pattu performer , Writer etc. etc.
He presented "Salomiyin Sabatham" in Tamil , a play based on Oscar Wilde's "Salome" in this festival. He filled the stage with artistes like an ancient classical painting,. With their smooth movements and performances, every actor did his best and the whole credit goes to Laddis.
If I do remember correct, Laddis acted as the King Herod lusting for his step daughter Salome (Chandrakala) and she demands the head of John the Baptist (Kalai Chelvan).
The voice of John the Baptist from the underground jail
( After me shall come another mightier than I. I am not worthy so much as to unloose the latchet of his shoes. When he cometh the solitary places shall be glad. They shall blossom like the rose. The eyes of the blind shall see the day, and the ears of the deaf shall be opened. The sucking child shall put his hand upon the dragon's lair, he shall lead the lions by their manes.)
and the dance of Chandrakala in a flimsy dress - Unthinkable in theatre during those days - are still in my memory.
Laddis, you are great !
