Director's Note: TAJ MAHAL KA TENDER

Neeraj Chawla as Shah Jahan

Costume by Tannistha Mukherjee. Makeup by Nitya Kansal. Photo by Basab Pradhan.

I have loved directing Taj Mahal for many reasons. First, it's a comedy. I love writing and directing comedies, and even more, acting in comedic roles. There is something about making people laugh that makes my motor hum.

Then, Taj Mahal is a political play. It lampoons the Indian bureaucracy. BADCo followers know that we strive to do theatre with a socio-political point of view. Taj Mahal is right in our wheelhouse.

Next, Taj Mahal is a modern day fantasy that places Shah Jahan in modern India. Since the setting is unmoored from time and place, we set aside any pretense of authenticity and instead played it up where we could. We went big on sets, costumes and makeup. Shah Jahan's costume was tailored in India and the court scenes have a majestic set, as befits an emperor's court.

Finally, I have loved working with a high energy, fun cast and crew. Having two casts for shows in two different languages can be quite an ordeal. But this cast and crew has the energy and the attitude that has energized me and everyone involved. It's been a lot of fun.

I've had a blast directing Taj Mahal Ka Tender. I'm sure you'll have a blast watching it. See you there!