Scene from Laff Till Yuh Belly Bust 6
“Laff Till yuh Fraff” opening night at Richmond Hill School Queens New York
Richmond Hill, NY, December 12 2009: Mahadeo Shivraj Productions presented their 6th annual revival of the Laff Till Yuh Belly Bust series. This production is a blend of short comical skits exemplifying the cultural realties of Indo Guyanese lifestyle as it experienced in Guyana and United States.
The production included veterans to stage who personified their roles with brilliance. For the most part, the skits were brief, to the point and packed a punch with well delivered lines that indeed made you “laff till you belly bust.” The themes covered included domestic violence, adultery, deportation and cultural conflicts experienced by Guyanese new to American culture. Satire was aimed at well known Guyanese personalities such as President Bharrat Jagdeo of Guyana and his quest to save the rain forest; Tony Shafik the Guyanese real estate mogul; Romeo Hitlall the Guyanese mortgage banker, Geeta Bisram the Guyanese bhajan singer/television host, Dheeraj Gayaram the indo Guyanese dancer and Terry Gajraj the Guyanese chutney artist.
This type of theatre has been around in the Guyanese community for an extremely long time. What Shivraj has done with this production is continue a style of satire enabling a long standing tradition to be kept alive. However, he has enriched it by utilizing current affairs and adapting it to the identifiable behaviors we share as a culture within our community. For instance, saving the rain forest has become a President Jagdeo’s personal quest, or so it seems. What Shivraj has done is portray Jagdeo as holding the forest hostage for money.
This production has tremendous potential to expand from its current form. While it is good for laughs, it carries a thread of somberness when immersed with present realities. Large doses of comedy allow the realities to be tolerable and “laff till yuh belly bust” does just that. I would recommend this production to anyone in the Guyanese community who has experienced Guyanese life in Guyana and can relate to the everyday experiences that add color to our lives as Guyanese.
i love the brief with the one hand non hand battie scratcher.
Satirical plays in the form of short skits or stand-up routines or a full-blown Play must be held to certain basic standards – whether they are presented by Indo-Guyanese or on Broadway.
The ethnic stereotyping of the Chinese restaurateur was not done in good taste.
The continuing demeaning of Guyanese women as ugly and whose behavior is mostly “fish-market” type (the divorce case presentation in front of an attorney) should be abandoned for more intelligent portrayal.
There are times when shouting your lines is counter-productive. The other actors should learn from Ramesh, whose smoothness and wit and “loud” without being loud. It is no coincidence that the skit that was the most well-received (and did not have an absence of laughter like most of the skits) was the “bad eye”, whose absurdity was most hilarious. I’m glad we didn’t see another one those skits where the Guyanese/Trini/American accomplishments are compared with whose is bigger for laugh value, or where the returning Guyanese is exposed as a fraud eventually after “showing off” his “abroad-ness”.
Some skits are too drawn out thus lacking the “to the point and packed with a punch” mentioned in the review. The “Love Boat” is a good example.
The technical delivery – the sound system, et al, by now should have been ironed out. Too many lines were inaudible.
Too many lines are overused and outdated – “more seed than balanger (boulanger, bhata or bhaigan the eggplant)”. Though I should add that the “transition” line of lowering your sex drive from (it being in your) head to your groin was punchy.
I was encouraged by the tremendous turn-out, and I will always support Guyanese-American Arts, but critiquing products like this is the best way of showing such support – like tough love to a kid, instead of smoothing over flaws.
I must have been watching a different show – a “bust” rather than a “buss”.
Why did you attend the show Mr Karimullah? I’ve seen you at past shows and by now after the fifth time, i would assume you would know what to expect by now. Its’ parody Mr Karimullah, take it for a night of laughs. Why don’t you approach the team and help them to improve the show for the next time?
Over all, the show made me laugh but there is a lot of work to be done. For a evening of belly full laugh, this show rocks! Come on, you cannot beat seeing a grown man in a diaper. Out right hilarious!
Thanks Baiganchoka.com, this review is wonderful. I was surfing the internet to found this article. Nice. I live in the Bronx and would definitely come out to see the show. It is raining today however, so i am not sure about the traffic.
Jainarine.
This show is pathetic, it shows how Guyanese degrade themselves and yet people find it funny. Not even the guyanese living in guyana behaves anywhere close to the acts I saw on this show. It makes people who never went to guyana think way less of the people. Rather than doing something to depict some sort of the culture which is intellegent, we spend our time making fun of their ignorance. The cast and producers of this show is as ignorant and pathetic as the show itself. What a wast of time spent watching that crap!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (this should be a compliment to the producers because that is probably the best review they will ever earn)
I seen laff till yuh belly bust 5 and it sucked but like any production, you have to expect such sometimes. I am not sure if i want to see # 6 but this review is encouraging. I will have to think about it. As to Karrimullah, no one should pay attention to him. He is just gas with scent. He got kicked out of Guyana Day committee. Some one should ask him why?
@Richmond Hill Guyanese,
As a member of the Guyana Day Committee, I must say that Aftab was never kicked out of the committee. I heard about this comment for the first time last night and I thought I should set the record straight.
Harry Bissoon, the founder, whom I have known for many years, is not the type of individual who would kick someone off our committee. He works to bring people together and not to divide them. He is the only person who can ask someone to leave the committee.
To Karrimullah:
It is my opinion that Mr Karimullah missed the whole point of the show. It is supposed to make Guyanese people laugh at themselves. He also missed the word “potential” in the review. Maybe some us of Guyanese have been fortunate enough not to have witnessed the aspects of Guyanese life portrayed in the show, have never witnessed drunk men screaming at each other to make their point, or the “crass” side of Guyanese behaviors. What Mr Shivraj has done is taken some of aspects of Guyanese life some of us would rather hide in a closet, and use it to create a night of laughs. Mr Karimullah need to understand that all cultures and nationalities come with the whole sprectum of behaviors and class. Portraying Guyanese women a certain way does not mean to imply that all Guyanese women are that way. I have enjoyed many a Broadway show myself, as well as off Broadway and will no doubt enjoy many more. I can also say that not everything I
Mahadeo Shivraj, Paul Sanders, Lakshmee Singh and the others are friends or know who I am and what I stand for. I support all their endeavors and will continue to do so, hence my response to the review. They know there is nothing mean-spirited about this. I did not see the second half of the show, by the way.
Rishi, I will call Mahadeo and Paul. They were preparing for their show today and I had to go in to the City. You replied as if I did not know the show is satire and is a prody that will make us laugh at ourselves. You really believe that?
“Richmond Hill Guyanese”, when you are behind a keyboard you have no need to be responsible and you find it easy being downright malicious. Now if you had to say to me that “I am gas with scent” in front of my face would you have done so? Now man up and say who you are, or you’re gonna keep hiding behind that alias of yours? You are giving yourself away when you got into something about me being “kicked out of the Guyana Day Committee”. Whether I am a Guyana Day Committee member or not, what has that got to do with a discussion of the state of our Arts? Understand this, nobody kicks anybody out of an Community organization. If anybody is asked to leave or leaves voluntarily it is not a “kickout-able” act. Send me that memo by the way.
Veronica – another alias I presume – you seem to like getting personal on a blog like this. If it makes you happy to do a dis-service to the Show, the Producers and actors and the image of Guyanese-Americans and get personal with me, bring it on.
I will read the responses but I will not dignify them with a reply. But, those who make personal remarks, please identify yourself. I’ll start. My name is in this blog. I live in Ozone Park. I work in the City. You can always reach me by asking the people of the show, or people you know, or the Guyana Day Committee. I am anxious to be told I’m gas with scent or that I’m kicked out of this or that.
Aftab Karimullah
Great Show! Wonderful Review. Just sometimes the lighting was poor.
As for Aftab Kari-Fulla-(Edited),
Are you not the same person that Walked out of the show before intermission? Why did you fail to mention this 1 minor detail? It doesn’t matter where I was sitting, but I heard you say “I Am leaving!”
Dude, everyone knows you! So when a person like you make a big deal about leaving… it’s noticeable.
IF you want to comment on something, then comment on the FULL Production. Do not give people the impression that You sat your Ass down for the entire show. You left within 1 hour.
Aftab, Honestly, (Comment edited By Admin)
Before you open your mouth, (Comment edited By Admin) You have NO right to comment on Something YOU DID NOT SEE!
STORY DONE!
Don’t Even waste your time responding to me…
SUSH! I said… SUSH!
“Story Done again!”
BTW, the show was great! It’s the Best “Laff Till Yuh Belly Bust” i’ve seen so far!
Ricky Charran, kindly treat all users on this site with respect.
So there was fraffing going on?…….[Comment deleted by Admin]
Dear Pooran, please respect your fellow users on this site.
Admin
Dear Admin,
How did I disrespect my fellow users? I’m sure if you released my comment the way I wrote it, there wouldn’t be any one person here that feels that is disrespect. I think I had a very valid question to which I was hoping that my fellow bloggers would be able to shower some light on. Please stop the oppression of our freedom of speech.
Do you have some sort of connection to this “Laff til yuh fraff” production? Can we have REAL opinions here please? Seems like some people are bribing this site with baigan to make this choka..
Dear Pooran,
No one is hindering your freedom of speech. If that was the case we would have simply delete your comments, which we didn’t. Calling someone an “a$$” is disrespectful and not acceptable. While you are exercising your freedom of speech please be considerate of others.
Best regards,
Admin
Admin,
When did I call anyone an a$$? Why are you making it seem like I said something that I really didn’t say? There was absolutely no reference in my original comment to an a$$. I talked about what I thought “fraff” was and made no comment to anyone in particular. I made a general statement about “fraff” and my personal experiences with “fraff”.
I don’t know where your accusations are coming from, and I would appreciate it if you either send me the full comment that I made through email or post it up on this blog for everyone to witness.
Thank you.
If you want my honest opinion on this show I would have to say that I definitely did not Laff until my Belly Bust. I did chuckle a few times. I have to commend Ramesh Deochand and David Margulis on their performances as they seem to be the actors that understand what
Dear Mr. Pooran,
I am only addressing this because you brought it up. If you notice on the flyer, Dheeraj was billed to perform. If you look closely, his picture is at the upper right corner with lakshmee singh. Due to Scheduling reasons, he was unable to perform this weekend.
The script that was performed on stage was Approved by Dheeraj himself at a rehersal 2 months ago, and he was going to play the role himself. The Dialogue has remained the same, and nothing was changed! The only difference is that I had to act the part instead. He even contributed ideas for that same skit, along with other “impersonations of Celebrities.”
We thank you for your comments, and concerns.
Best Regards,
Trevolta
Season Greetings Everyone!!! & Thank You all for your support!
Thank You for making this year’s “LAFF” entertaining!
Have a Happy Holiday, and Merry Christmas!!!
Dear Fellow West Indians,
I have to say this was my very first time attending this show and its was so badly done. I cannot believe the tasteless humor and the unprofessional-ism the entertainer showed not only toward each other but to other fellow entertainers.
First lemme say something nice. The song that Ramesh Deochand & Mahadeo Shivraj was done very well. They sang very lovely but alas I’m sure they didn’t write that song. This became clear to me as the show went on because the next scene had me puzzled. I didn’t know what I was looking at. It seemed that i was, for about 5 minutes or more (just felt like forever) watching a bunch of idiots on stage in Christmas outfits lip sinking and badly dancing. I heard laughter to the left of me and it was people who shared the shame dumbfounded feeling i had, except my facial expression was funnier then what we were looking at. As i sat there i began to dread the next hours of my life.
This whole production was washed up. The talent (if you want to call it talent) was washed up. The jokes were bad. Every time i thought “okay, this will be different” i was wrong, it wasn’t. It was just as bad, if not worse then the one before. I can tell they were really gutting jokes that were told in passing at family functions. We’ve all heard it. I didn’t want to pay $20 dollars for stuff I’ve heard ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE ! BUT… at least those “old jokes” made more sense then some of the skits that were done such as; the two old couple divorcing, the game show, the guy who got deport to Guyana, the beauty pageant… Please forgive me if i left some skits out, they were probably so bad I’ve blocked them out of my memory. The concepts were cool but the dialog SUCKED ! I didn’t even laugh once. And please don’t insult me (who ever reads this or responds) by saying something stupid like “you probably don’t know what funny is” I do know whats funny, its not this.
NOW FOR THE FINAL COMPLAINT… What in the world were these people thinking to poke fun at anyone within the West Indian community. The jokes with Terry Gajraj were so stupid and under developed. I was hoping for… NO.. Wishing Terry would really come out and kick their backsides, not for poking fun at him… OH NO… but for murdering a joke and dragging its feces across the stage. However, I did wish Dheeraj Gayaram would have gotten up and really put a few lash on them all. Especial Trevolta Karran, who came on stage and poked fun of the performer. I saw Mr.s Gayaram’s face as he was leaving and must say, they are lucky he is a better human being then them, to have left without really giving it to them. I for one think Dheeraj is an excellent performer, one who can carry himself next to top Bollywood choreographers. Growing up i have enjoyed his musical numbers and as a fellow dancer admire his talent. I will not say what was said or portrayed on stage but all i will say THAT WAS DISGUSTING ! From what i saw in this particular part of the show was talentless struggling “want to be” actor making themselves look like a donkeys rare end.
NOW SOME ADVISE… Let me just say that many of our fellow West Indians try to over come the barriers put up against us in the this country as well as others. They try to change people perception of us so that we can make a name in the world and our race could one day be acknowledged for the talent and intelligence we contribute. And to have moronic, money hungry, talentless geezers… YES “geezers” such as what i witnessed last night on stage poke fun at those who actually strike for the progression of our people, truly sad and depressing . But if you cannot get what I am trying to say by now let me say it bluntly. Please please please stop acting or performing. Please stop taking hard working peoples money (which I’m positive is pocketed for your own personal gain) and continue to do what every it is you do during the day to make honest money and leave the acting and performing to the real actors and performers.
As for the ONLY good talent i saw, My hats off to David. Please never do a show with Shivraj Productions again. You’re better off and nice legs
Dear Pooran,
I am very pleased that your use of language is now appropriate. At Baiganchoka.com, we do appreciate freedom of speech and exercise it liberally albeit with responsibility. That is not to say because you are sitting behind a keyboard, you can use any type of language. We must respect all if we are to have an open discussion on this topic. Feel free to say what you want at anytime, just refrain from using slang.
Thank for understanding.
Admin
The show was funny. I had a great time. Some skits were creative while others I seemed to be more familiar with. Reading these comments, I appreciate Shiv and others for doing something productive for the West Indian community. It is not mandatory for these people to take out time in offering us a laugh. But they are doing so, I take it as a appreciation. We all have our perception on what funny is. A joke to me might not be a joke to you. I am a fan since the first show and will remain. Guys keep up the work and thank you for putting a smile on my face.
First and foremost, I’d like to commend all of the staff, actors/actresses who helped with the production of “Laff till yuh Belly Buss”. Unlike a lot of people who don’t seem to grasp the concept of a “comedy show”, I think you’ve all done a marvelous job. Secondly, the staff shouldn’t take to offense of the publics opinion. As the years have gone by, I’ve witnessed ” Laff till yuh belly buss” grow bigger and better with each passing year. Maybe you should have a disclaimer though… because it’s quite apparent that no one knows how to take a joke. Now, for the people who speculate and are quick to try to throw Trevolta and a light of scrutiny because he can “act”, get over it. If you didn’t like the show, then you should have gotten up and left, especially if you thought it was “offensive”. It shows the true maturity of the West Indian Community though, ready to “bash” someone for doing a “good job”. Trevolta, keep doing what you’re doing.
I would like to commend this years writers, why? Because you’ve incorporated everyday issues into the show without offending anyone or giving anyone a bad name… Congratulations on a job well done.
Oh! And Cynthia, it seems as if you’re either a spokesperson for Mr. Gayaram, or a die hard Dheeraj fan… I’ve seen Dheeraj perform for many years, and to be honest, what Trevolta acted on, was nothing but the SAME ROUTINE Dheeraj does OVER AND OVER AND OVER again… And there weren’t any jokes made on Terry Gajraj… I highly doubt you even saw the comedy, but hey, we’re all entitled to our own opinions
Happy Holidays
To the man above this comment,
I wasn’t commenting about the WAY Trevolta danced or the “so-called” routine Dheeraj does, but the distasteful homosexual joke as well as his personal life. Please learn to read my comment properly. Your lack of understanding in what I’m saying is very poor. Also a bad show is a bad show. I sat there with hopes it would get better because i do want to support my people. But to lie and say it was a good show, REALLY? i was thought not to tell a lie. What were you taught ? Again proper understanding of the English language I said “and the jokes WITH Terry Gajraj” , meaning its was annoying to carry that joke on for so long. If you want to defend this poorly put together “comedy special” go right ahead. But don’t insult my intelligence or my sense of humor. I wish them the best next year, even though i hope this was it. I’ll be sure not to be there nor will i subject others i know to it as well and that way those who don’t see will not be hurt.
The show was great. This was my first
Dear Ms. Prema,
For a person who comments so strongly on how another person
Cynthia,
Thanks for taking the time to respond to my post. I actually appreciate it. Just a few pointers for you though. If you can not speak nor write proper English, I would ask you humbly not to. It saddens me that people (such as yourself) can take the time to scrutinize (analyze) the faults of others, but yet, can’t try to fix the ones they have as their individual self. I read your comment and understood what you were trying to get across to the public, but apparently, you don’t know what you’re trying to get across. If you truly wanted to “support” your community, then you yourself would take the time to analyze or understand what the staff at “Laff” were trying to do. Now, I’m very sorry to burst your “bubble”, but in Comedy Shows, WORLD WIDE, this is how it’s done… If you have Cable or Dish, you may want to look up the “Comedy Channel.” There you will find various shows, and various acts of individuals “acting” or better yet “impersonating” another individual. Hell, if you can’t afford Cable or Dish Network, then just simply watch MADTV on channel 5. You’ve taken this all way too personally, and it’s not that serious. I personally feel the moment that you found the show to be “tasteless”, you should have gotten up and left. And yes, I was taught ( process of learning) not to lie either, but I thought (process of thinking) everyone new what a comedy was. Go back to English Class, because you need it.
And the skits which included Terry Gajraj, were impersonations OF HIM, no jokes were made WITH HIM… Do you see the difference? You cannot insult a person on their sense of humor, if they have nothing close to one. I never questioned or insulted your intelligence, I don’t stoop down to little children games. Oh! And you shouldn’t lie… Stand by your remarks and your opinions, it’s never a good thing to flip flop what you think- You’ve already voiced that “Laff” should cease to exist, don’t take it back now. I was TAUGHT that when a person is upset, they should take the time to calm down and think about what they will say before they start spewing garbage… You might want to do the same… Just a piece of helpful advice… And don’t worry, say what you want to say… Hey, It’s America, freedom of Speech. Hmm… For a person who can’t read or comprehend, I think I did a pretty good job.
I personally think that you don’t even know what you were trying to say, but whatever…
Dear Ms. Prema,
I have also noticed a few holes in your backlash to Shivraj Production and user SB29. Your lack of understanding of a skit (Skit: A short comic performance; to make fun of) should not be blamed on Shivraj Productions. Also, we are all responsible for what we say but I do not understand how one can say
WOW ! Really ? I think your an ignorant and pathetic person to keep this insult towards me going because of my opinion. I actually was trying to be nice about things in the end, but i see that just as disgusting as the show was, its supporters are even more disgusting. Hey, if you want to be offended and feel like a man and keep this insult towards me up, go right ahead. I’ve pretty much said all i care to say in regards to this . I am not taking it to a childish level, I’m only speaking as a response to your mention of me in your comments. Maybe you should take your own advise and calm down.
I hate the show. I think they copied too much from “Welcome to my Life” and “Agree to Disagree”. Everything about the show is just too absurd with the same old Guyanese mentality.
The casts are boring and their acting sucks . If you wanna be an actor – be happy, comfortable and confident in what you do. Don’t try to hard – it shows on your face and then its not funny anymore.
I have to say, each one is entitled to his or her opinions. Like any nationality, we sometimes want and need and look for different things. I am appalled at some of the comments . I thought this blog was revolving around the show or related shows, and only the show. Instead I find nasty comments relating to each others socioeconomic status (can we afford Cable or dish?), educational level (well deserved), anger management (the pot calling the kettle black), and so forth. I certainly don’t need to know where anyone lives and works (I live in Ozone Park and work in the city), it is about the show, not beating each other up on the street. Carrying on like a fish woman /fisherman (if the cap fits, wear it), seems a little more personal than just the show…makes me wonder. Any intelligent forum can agree to disagree. However, some of us have to have the last word. I can identify with that. I am Guyanese after all. I’m also human.
I think in true West Indian Guyanese style, those same characteristics we would like to pretend don’t exist in the Guyanese community, we have all nicely displayed.
Enough material to expand on for another night of laughs I would think.
Veronica (My real name Mr K)
@Veronica, Funny how you comment how replies should be about the show and not observations about people yet you yourself do that
I was happy to see that there are so many supporters for this show and for West Indian Arts. So while you’re waiting another year for this show to come back again, you can enjoy free comedy at TheTVSho.com, a website created by Flat Tire Productions. You’ll see many familiar faces. New videos are released periodically, so stay tuned and stay entertained!!
Flat Tire Productions is also doing a stage show in February in NY and will be travelling to Canada, Florida, Minnesota and New Jersey with a comedy show based on their original series, “Liberty Avenue Singles.”
So if you’re a supporter of the arts, which it seems all of you are, then come check us out for free!
Ajay Singh
@Ajay Singh,
38.Steve Espen on December 16th, 2009 5:59 pm
Very good point Ajay Singh. Refering back to Ms. Cynthia Prema, who is a member, actress and representative of Flat Tire Productions, She stated that the show she saw over the weekend was
Comment removed by Admin.
Steve Espen,
Please do not post such comments regarding anyone on this site. If you need to get in touch with Dr. Rudy Jadoopat then please contact him directly.
Thank you for understanding,
Admin
Why do you people protect this Bum Dr. Jadoopat?Are you all the same?
The last I looked this was a free country…But those just off the banana boat don’t believe in free speech do they?Why dose America tolerate such narrow minded irresponsible rude grunts?
Steve Espen,
We are not protecting anyone, and this is not a message board for your personal attacks.
Regards,
Admin
Dah,this is a public forum,is it not?
Steve,
Get some proof and write an article, I’d love to read more about this. This sounds like a very interesting story!
Ali Baba is alive and well in Little Guyana!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Very good point Ajay Singh. Refering back to Ms. Cynthia Prema, who is a member, actress and representative of Flat Tire Productions, She stated that the show she saw over the weekend was “DISGUSTING” and filled with “Tasteless Humor”.
I would recommend that everyone who is Interested in seeing “Comedy with BALLS” these folks know the true meaning of “Disgusting”, and “Tasteless Humor” SO PLEASE do Support “THE ARTS” and check out their show “For FREE.”
Quoting Mr. Singh, “So if you
Steve Espen,
Yes, this is a public forum for discussion, not a gossip site for unsubstantiated claims.
Regards,
Admin
Dear Ray,
This is a forum to post your opinion. There was nothing in my first comment that show any ignorance or disrespect. I only spoke about the show. I did not attack anyone on a personal lever because i don’t know any of them. It appears, either YOU weren’t at the show or one of your buddy’s on stage (I’m referring to Shiv a.k.a SB29) asked you to take time to post an attack on my opinions. Only reason why I’m saying this is because Dheeraj was indeed there in the front row, so what were you smoking? I hope people who read these comments see how this Shivraj productions operates and how they encourage verbal attacks to anyone who has an opinion against them. Oh and Ray i read you first attack on me… thanks for copying and pasting my comment again. I know now this forum operates. This is not a open forum for anyone to voice their opinions its a gang related page for all of Shiv’s friends and family to behave in the same way the show was conducted and that is in a very distasteful and ridiculous manner.
Wow I’m actually ashamed i came back on this thing to see what else was said towards me. But of course if Shiv (meaning SB29) had said something back to me after I shut him down, he’d look very childish. But I’m not stupid. I know how people like you old guys behave. Its very sad and i agree with some of the other comments from people after this whole back and forth game you people have in here. Some people like it and some people don’t and to bring it down to this level, your kind of pathetic. And with that mentality you’ll never get anywhere in life nor will you be successful in future endeavors.
@Cynthia P, Cynthia, it appears to me that you have A LOT of maturing to do. It seems as though you and Your Friends (organization) have some serious personal issues. (From all that I have gathered in the past few days)
This might very well be a publicity stunt to bring attention to your organization which appears to be struggling with horrible writing, and poor storylines, and terrible direction. (Just another one of my observations). But then again, I have no experience in the field, so who am i to comment?
Cynthia P,
Why do you feel “This is not a open forum for anyone to voice their opinions”? Everyone has been sharing their opinions for and against the show. We are not biased to either side. Some will like the show, others will not – that’s just how it will be.
Dear Admin,
Why are you only questioning people who disagree with the show?
I rest my case.
@Cynthia P, So you are the only one who can share your opinions? It shows that your are just as ignorant and self centered as I thought. Thanks a bunch! By the way, it turns about you are more than twice my age! That is so funny to me seeing as how you are still illiterate and thick.
Hello Cynthia P,
My concern is not with anyone’s opinion regarding the show. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. I only care that while sharing those opinions we treat each other with respect, that’s all.
Warm regards,
Admin
Free speech is part of the reason people moved from Guyana to the US right?But the Administrator here wants to bring Guyana’s repression to the US.Maybe when Guyana becomes a free country we US citizens can move there…
@Steve Espen,
If such is the reason why you moved from Guyana, that is all the more reason to respect freedom of speech since you understand some of the costs associated with not having such liberties. With freedom comes responsibilities. Appreciate this freedom and respect your peers as you would like to be respected.
Tell me why it sucks…
Mr. Espen,
Freedom of speech is the freedom to speak without censorship and/or limitation. The synonymous term freedom of expression is sometimes used to indicate not only freedom of verbal speech but any act of seeking, receiving and imparting information or ideas, regardless of the medium used. In practice, the right to freedom of speech is not absolute in any country and the right is commonly subject to limitations, such as on “hate speech”.
Hate speech is speech perceived to disparage a person or group of people based on their social or ethnic group, such as race, gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language ability, ideology, social class, occupation, appearance (height, weight, skin color, etc.), mental capacity, and any other distinction that might be considered by some as a liability. The term covers written as well as oral communication and some forms of behaviors in a public setting. It is also sometimes called antilocution and is the first point on Allport’s scale which measures prejudice in a society.
It is within the Rights of this forum to prevent any type of improper language/ behavior. The Freedom of Press amendment gives this company [Baiganchoka] the right to sensor any type of language that would discriminate against their views/ readers.
If you so decide to pull the constituion on your side, please be sure you understand it from back to front!
And this is all over a bum who won’t pay his child support..[Phrase Edited]
I have been watching all of the above with great interest.
I have to agree “freedom of speech” is different from “hate speech” as explained by Mr Charran. There is quite a bit of “hate ” and “insecurity” that comes across in some of the posts above. Freedom of speech is certainly not the right the refer to an individual (s) as ignorant or pathetic among other things. That is hateful and disrespectful. It is certainly not acceptable behavior in the professional world. It also does not say much for the integrity and professionalism of one actor or actress expressing those kinds of emotions for another.
Indira.
Cynthia P has lost her groundings. I cannot follow her logic; her rant sounds like a woman with severe PMS or an old sexually frustrated curmudgeon surrounded by a sink flowing over with dishes. The more she spews the funnier she sounds.
C’mon Cynthia, think dispassionately, you can articulate without blowing a fuse!
I got my point across.I am sure Dr. Rudy Jadoopat has gotten the message.Pooran there will be an article,and there is plenty of information.My only goal is to get this person to live up to his responsibilities.And yes expose lies and fraud….
This is a disgusting display of west indian ignorance, each and every one of you should be ashamed of yourself. is this the only thing you can do as a community? talk name?, it is no wonder you people will never make it out of the bush from where you came, even those who try to “sound educated”, i know 5 year olds who set a better example in their community than ANY OF YOU. i have never been to this Production, but if this is what i can expect at one, count me out. have a good day fighting over scraps like a bunch of stray dogs.
Suresh (FreeVibes.Ent)
Man, you got to love Guyanese people. They fight in clubs, bars, and now online. Guys the show is what it is. I don’t see anyone you getting up and trying to to better. But like anything else, it is easy to find faults or speak negatively about some one or something. It is our nature as human beings, and this display shows no different. I like the author’s review and thought it was on point. This show has quite a lot of potential. I do hope that laff till yuh belly bust will consider something revolutionary next year to add to the show.
If we are to have a n intellectual discussion, we need to be objective ans such is the not the case with many of those who commented. Lets remove ourselves from the picture and lets discuss what can be done to improve this show. I will start. I would like to see a better designed backdrop for the show, better sound and lighting system and i would love if they would actually start on time.
James,they are also refuse to pay their child support…..And we all know who that is!!!!
It’s so sickening to see this type of behavior from my own kind of people This is why no one respects us and this is why we probably can’t go further from owning a real estate or Sari and pooja shop on Liberty avenue. Because our mentality and ignorance stops us short from becoming anything greater than that.
These organizations wants us to “support to arts” but they themsevles cannot respect or support it, so why should we? They create fake names on this website in order to make negative comments regarding one another. What a typical case of a “coolie bad mouthing another coolie to get to the top.”
Shivraj productions and Flattire productions have no respect for one another with the amount of negativity being disgorged on both sides, and I plan on boycotting both of their events,shows,activities.
Until they learn how to deal with things PROFESSIONALLY I don’t want to provide support to them. Either one of this organization could have ignored what the other was saying, and that would have been that. But NO, it’s always an eye for an eye with coolie people.
Regardless of what is written or thought about the PLAY, there should be no mis-characterization of the INDIVIDUALS who put on such shows. I personally know of nothing dishonorable, theiving or scampish about any of the individuals who perform. They are all wonderful human beings who, with budget and family time constraints, are willing to put a cheer on the faces of Guyanese-Americans in South Queens and beyond. And at times these show go on with funds from their own pockets. They ought to be commended, technical or artistic flaws aside.
The actors and producers of the Laff show and “Flat Tyre Productions” are humble individuals and among whom you will not find an iota of arrogance and haughty behavior. A lot of them do humanitarian and charitable work elsewhere. They involve themselves in community work without advertising such efforts. Their shows should be judged in the overall context. I mentioned my response to a review that was clearly hyperbolic and it was meant to redress this impression. The intention is to help.
There are logistical constraints that lead to shortcomings on the technical and logistical side. I would rather see an attempt at such offerings rather than nothing at all. It is how we evolve and grow as a new immigrant community, as we take our places among the communities of New york City. We are not alone in human frailties, and no one should seek to label us as the worst of communities. All communities exhibit the same characteristics of infighting like us. We as Guyanese-Americans have done our birth place proud. Just go to corporate America and you will hear managers extoll the virtues of our work ethic and intellectual contributions. Look around at research in technology and medicine in the New England and Manhattan that involve Guyanese. There are Guyanese whose economic achievements are not touted because they are not in the obvious services industries like real estate and travel and insurance. No amount of writing about us fight like coolies can erase these achievements.
@Jessica Jadoornauth,
Jessica:
You need to be careful how you spit in the wind. There is rivalry, competition nor turf wars between Flattire productions and Mahadeo Shivraj Productions. I am familiar with these wonderful folks on both sides. I am intimated how they evolved and how Mahadeo Shivraj parted ways with Flattire productions.
By the way, the driving force behind Flattire Productions was Mahadeo Shivraj. The records will show that he directed all the productions and “laff Till yuh Belly Bust” was his brainchild. How the spilt came about is irrelevant for now.
Flattire Productions is driven by Frankie Sooknanan. There is mutual cordiality among all the artists. The ones you are groaning about is all in your imagination. Please contact Frankie or Shivraj yourself for authentication.
But as a point of argument, let me say this unequivocally . You cannot compare Frankie with Shivraj none day. Frankie cannot stand beside Shivraj artistically, morally, philosophically. And that’s the point. The respect you rhapsodize about is something you need to consider for yourself. And I wish that for you this Christams. Enjoy!
@Big Ben,
I agree with all that you’ve said. Point well made! Frankie has been trying to portray himself as a good guy, However, the truth is, He has used many people in the past and will continue to do it.
Eventually one day, the truth will come to light, and everyone will see Frankie for what he really is. He is no different that those real estate crooks who were taken away by the feds. I just hope that when that day comes, his associates doesn’t fall to the same fate as him.
@Tricia,
Oh my my looks like I take back what I said about not supporting flattire productions. The fact that “Tricia” and “Big Ben” again are using fake names to back up shivraj productions shows their class and maturity level. Flattire has yet to backfire and seems to be handling this situation a lot better and more tactful. Applauds to you.
This seems so much more personal to Tricia and Big Ben for them to be a regular onlooker. I can’t remember a tricia or big ben being apart of Shivraj productions, yet they seem so much more angry than to be just a regular fan. Why? Is it because they are members of Shivraj productions pretending to be someone else? Huge possibility but we will never know.
I’m so repulsed by them. Whatever you’re doing “Frankie” keep doing it and dont listen to these low class coolies called shivraj productions. Clearly they speak of you being a ‘crook’ but i dont see any of your people creating fake names backing you up.
He may have created the name “laugh till your belly bust” but look at how many people think it sucks since you left. Cleary he may have been the brain child behind the name of the show but its evident he wasnt responsible for all of the materials and skits that were apart of the show when you were there.
Keep up the good job at making those movies you’ve created. Sacrifice and Karma was artistic, genius and talented. Though some may like to believe you can’t stand next to shivraj I dont think he was responsible for making those movies a huge success. He was a mere actor just like the rest of your cast and crew unless I am wrong and he had a bigger role. You sure didnt need laugh till your belly bust to be who you are today your movies speaks for themselves.
You hit the nail right on the head Jessica about the mentality…
Well I know a distinguished P.H.D. in the Queens Guyanese community who can but will not pay his child support responsibility!!!!….Is that Coolie mentality or is it not?
this was my 3rd laugh til … and it got a bit better, but that’s not saying much.
WHY is it always THIS lazy, slap stick, sexist, racist, bull– is this all the writers can think of? STOP dumbing down us YEAR after YEAR. we are intelligent people not absent minded individuals.
PLEASE don’t do another laugh til … the community wants and deserves more. CHILDREN were in the audience and more than half the material was highly inappropriate. if you know your content is not suitable have an age minimum.
This show sucked case it is basically a repeat of past years. Also Till I find a Place which is a movie with Mr Shivraj is an adaptation of the work of someone else. Come on, can’t you all write something original for once.
@Karen,
I would like to see Mahadeo Shivraj direct a play that he himself has written. As someone quoted (which was the funniest thing I read this morning), he is “artistically, morally, philosophically” but yet everything he has put on has been written by someone else. Cindarella? LOL What are some of the other famous plays he did again?
How hard is it to say “Hey I like this story that someone else has written. Let me get some people together and tell them where to stand on stage and how to say their lines?” LOL
You’re right BIG BEN he can’t be compared to or even stand next to Frankie because all of Frankie’s work were written by Frankie! And if Shivraj didn’t think Frankie had any talent he wouldn’t have been in all of his movies. If he’s a crook that ‘Tricia’ seems to think, then he’s a crook, but you can’t take away the fact that the guy has talent.
Get a life shivraj productions. No one is saying that you’re not good but stop thinking that you’re the reason Frankie is where he is now. Get over yourself!
If you haven’t realized by now, your fan base for Laff Till keeps getting smaller and smaller. Soon enough you’ll only be able to fill a basement for one of your shows.
I just hope this production gets better. I am quest sure the producers of this show are aware of some of the short comings and will take some time to enhance the show with some new skits and additional actors.
Well said Sunita. If you are going to do something, do it right or don’t do it at all.
I think that Cynthia P. should refrain from calling anyone ignorant, especially since she can’t spell or construct a proper sentence. How can you complain about a poorly written and constructed show, when you lack the intelligence to compose a paragraph that makes sense?
This can be the worst article of all, I’ve read