Monday, April 2, 2012

Entertainment, entertainment, entertainment – at IPL 5 opener!

Entertainment, entertainment, entertainment - at IPL 5 opener!Glitz, glamour and game. The hole ceremony of the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament will see numerous fireworks in Chennai Tuesday - from American pop icon Katy Perry's performance to Indian dancing sensation Prabhu Deva's act to Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan's poetry recitation.

If that isn't enough, Bollywood stars Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and music band Colonial Cousins are geared as much as set the stage afire.

"There can be good things, a lot of entertainment and cricket. It is the first time that this type of large-scale, separate concert is being organised for the IPL, so big things was planned," Wizcraft Entertainment director Sabbas Joseph told.

The performer line-up is impressive.

"Amitabh Bachchan could be opening the night. He'll render a poem written by Prasoon Joshi. And Salman Khan will give the show a fitting finale...all performers will bring something unique to the show," said Joseph.

Joshi says it was challenging to pen the verse.

"The challenge before me was to put in writing in verse concerning the spirit of cricket. The poetry captures this spirit and makes a commitment that whatever one may do in life, one would always wish to be connected to the sport of cricket," he said.

A huge highlight of the ceremony, to be held on the YMCA Grounds in Chennai, is pop icon Katy Perry.

The singer, who tied the knot with now estranged husband Russell Brand, in India in 2010, returns to the rustic to offer her maiden performance on the ceremony. She is about to enthrall the audience together with her hits like "Fireworks" and "California Gurls".

"Katy will add a unique flavour to the development. She is coming down April 2, but leaving almost in a jiffy after her performance," said Joseph.

Another highlight could be Big B - he returns to work after two abdominal surgeries earlier this year. The 69-year-old veteran has been home ever since his treatment, and appears forward to step out for the event.

Contrary to recent media reports, Big B is unlikely to dance, clarifies Joseph.

A rare sight can be dancing sensation Prabhu Deva on stage. Other attractions include performances by Bollywood beauties Priyanka and Kareena, whose performances has been choreographed by Shiamak Davar and his team.

Stepping up the passion may be music maestros Colonial Cousins, who will team up with international percussionist and composer DJ Ravi Drums and a gaggle of talented percussionists referred to as First Project and native percussionists, d'Frens.

"Whether it's international tracks, the 'Dhinka chika', southern tracks or the dances...the combination from around the country is aimed at entertainment and entertainment," said Joseph, who says the performers has been chosen at the basis in their profile and passion for cricket.

The fifth edition of IPL could be held during April 4-May 27. With nine teams and 76 games across 12 locations, it promises to be a treat for cricket fans.

The captains of the nine participating teams may also be present on the opening ceremony, where they are going to take a pledge.

The tickets for the star-studded opening night are priced at Rs.1,500. And, needless to say, the organisers expect a whole" house".