# Nelson Afonso

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**Nelson João Sulpicio Afonso** (20 April 1934 – 18 June 1982) was an Indian singer, composer, playwright, and [theatre director](/source/Theatre_director) who worked on the [Konkani stage](/source/Tiatr).

## Early life

Nelson João Sulpicio Afonso was born on 20 April 1934, in [Vasco da Gama, Goa](/source/Vasco_da_Gama,_Goa), which was a part of [Portuguese India](/source/Portuguese_India) during the era of the [Portuguese Empire](/source/Portuguese_Empire) (now in India). He was born into a [Goan Catholic](/source/Goan_Catholic) family, with his father, Manoel Adolfo Alfonso, originating from [Aldona](/source/Aldona), and his mother, Evelina Idinha Cardoso e Afonso, being a [homemaker](/source/Homemaker).[1] Afonso's mother possessed vocal abilities, which he inherited, and it became evident at a young age that he had a natural talent for singing.[2] Encouraged by his neighbors, Afonso began showcasing his vocal prowess in village concerts and *[tiatrs](/source/Tiatrs)*, a popular form of [Konkani](/source/Konkani_language) [musical theater](/source/Musical_theater). One of his neighbors, Baptista Lobo, provided him with the opportunity to perform in these events. Although originally from Aldona, Goa, Afonso eventually settled in Vasco da Gama, Goa.[3]

## Career

Afonso embarked on his professional journey in the [Konkani theater](/source/Tiatr) at the age of 17, marking his debut on the stage. Known for his vocal prowess, he swiftly gained popularity within local villages. It was during this time that [A. S. Conception](/source/A._S._Conception), a *[tiatrist](/source/Tiatrist)* residing in Afonso's neighborhood, discerned his abilities while witnessing one of his performances in a village drama. Recognizing Afonso's potential, Conception took it upon himself to introduce the budding talent to the established *tiatrists* of that era. Conception's efforts culminated in Afonso securing a breakthrough opportunity on the commercial *[tiatr](/source/Tiatr)* stage, which facilitated his acceptance and artistic growth. Conception also took a personal interest in nurturing Afonso's development. Afonso's talents soon captured the attention of senior *tiatrists*, who promptly cast him in their productions. Initially, [he primarily portrayed female characters](/source/Cross-gender_acting), exhibiting an ability to convincingly embody their essence through his attire, actions, and comedic timing.[2] Gradually, Afonso's passion for music composition began to emerge, leading him to create a [repertoire](/source/Repertoire) of songs. His multifaceted abilities as an actor and singer left a mark on the *tiatr* stage. As his career blossomed, Afonso ventured into the realm of playwriting. Crafting his own *tiatrs*, he showcased proficiency in constructing compelling narratives. Afonso's scripts were appreciated for their thematic depth and meaningful messages.[3]

Afonso emerged as a known figure in the world of *tiatrs*, crafting a collection of theatrical works during his era. With a total of 27 *tiatrs* under his belt, Afonso covered a wide range of topics, including [social issues](/source/Social_issue) and [politics](/source/Politics). His [political *tiatr*](/source/Political_drama) titled *Nationalist* propelled him to fame and resonated with the [Goan](/source/Goan) audience. Among Afonso's popular *tiatrs* are *Doctor Salazar*, *Ghorabo* (Family), *Almas do Outro Mundo* (Souls from the Other World), *Jikle re Jikle* (We won, We won), *Goenkar Te Goenkar* (Goans are Goans), *Suttka Uprant* (Post Freedom), *Dolorosa*, and *Doganch Puro* (Two is enough). Afonso's contributions extended beyond writing, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the *tiatr* landscape. Afonso established the [troupe](/source/Theatrical_troupe) Stars of the Goa Stage, consisting primarily of young and aspiring *tiatrists*. The troupe's name was eventually changed to Young Stars of Goa. Furthermore, during the staging of his *tiatr Asro*, Afonso formed his own group, known as the Old and Gold Stars of Goa.[3] This group comprised both seasoned and emerging *tiatrists*. Afonso had a particular focus on composing songs. Initially, he composed [duets](/source/Duet) and performed alongside artists such as Anthony, Conception, and Champion Peter. Subsequently, Afonso formed a [trio](/source/Trio_(music)) with Conception and Anthony, specializing in politically charged songs. These compositions gained popularity for their outspoken commentary on issues like [corruption](/source/Corruption).[2] While the songs exhibited a satirical and critical tone, they maintained a respectful approach, avoiding any defamatory content.[4]

The trio's success propelled them to continue performing together, placing Afonso in the forefront as the primary composer. As the demand for [government criticism](/source/Political_criticism) grew, Afonso's songwriting abilities were put to the test, as he met the audience's expectations by delivering thought-provoking compositions. Afonso's creative innovation extended to the realm of [stage design](/source/Stage_design). In 1968, he made history by introducing the first single [revolving stage](/source/Revolving_stage) in [Konkani](/source/Konkani_language) *[tiatr](/source/Tiatr)* with his popular production, *Dolorosa*.[3] This stage design, named the "ring and roll", featured a kitchen hall on one side and a road scene on the other.[5] The stage's unique fabrication by Afonso allowed for seamless transitions between sets, eliminating the need for frequent set changes. By situating the two sets opposite each other, Afonso enabled a swift rotation of the stage, presenting the second set to the audience after the completion of the first.[4] Over the course of his career, Afonso composed and performed over 100 songs. Songs like "Nak Chepta," "Knockout," and "Gaddo" gained popularity. Additionally, he participated in more than 500 *tiatr* performances, spanning across his own productions and collaborative endeavors. Afonso's talent led him to tour various regions, including [Bombay](/source/Bombay), [Goa](/source/Goa), and [East Africa](/source/East_Africa).[2]

## Personal life

On 24 May 1958, Afonso married the [homemaker](/source/Homemaker) Maria do Rosario Dias (later known as Maria Rosada Dias) at [Mormugão](/source/Mormug%C3%A3o) Church.[6] Their son, Tomas "Tommy" Afonso,[1] known professionally as [Jr. Nelson](/source/Jr._Nelson), is a singer on the [Konkani stage](/source/Tiatr).[7] On 18 June 1982, Afonso died at MPT Hospital in [Vasco da Gama, Goa](/source/Vasco_da_Gama,_Goa), at the age of 48.[8]

## Selected stage works

Year Title Role Notes Ref c. 1951 Untitled tiatr Professional debut [2] 1960s Nationalist Writer/director [9][2] Doctor Salazar Writer director [10][2] Almas do Outro Mundo Writer/director 1963 Ghor Sounsar Writer/director Also singer [2] 1968 Dolorosa Writer/director [3] 1969 Ghorabo Writer/director [11][2] Jikle re Jikle Writer/director [2] Goenkar Te Goenkar Writer/director Suttka Uprant Writer/director 1977 Doganch Puro Writer/director [12][2]

## Select discography

- *Nak Chepta*
- *Knockout*
- *Gaddo*

### Trios (with Conception & Anthony)

- *Separate State*
- *Apar*
- *Votam*
- *Brazil*

## References

1. ["Registo De Nascimento"](https://goaonline.gov.in/Appln/UIL/BirthDeathCertificate_af?__Key=&_Mode=B&__cscKey=). *Goa Online*. 30 June 2006. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230810131321/https://goaonline.gov.in/HomePage) 10 August 2023 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 10 August 2023.

1. Mazarello, Wilson (2000). [*100 Years of Konkani Tiatro*](https://books.google.com/books?id=K-1PAQAAIAAJ). Government of Goa, Directorate of Art & Culture. pp. 133–136. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240107200151/https://books.google.com/books?id=K-1PAQAAIAAJ) 2024-01-07 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2024-03-07.

1. Fernandes, William (2019). *TIATR 125th Anniversary Commemorative Volume*. [Panaji, Goa](/source/Panaji,_Goa): [Tiatr Academy of Goa](/source/Tiatr_Academy_of_Goa). p. 59.

1. ["the times they are a-changin'..."](https://www.thegoan.net//the-times-they-are-achangin%E2%80%99/32064.html). *The Goan EveryDay*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240307141226/https://www.thegoan.net//the-times-they-are-achangin%E2%80%99/32064.html) 2024-03-07 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2024-03-07.

1. ["Tiatr magic 'revolves' around innovation"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/movie-details/news-interviews/tiatr-magic-revolves-around-innovation/articleshow/21503686.cms). *The Times of India*. 2013-07-31. [ISSN 0971-8257](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/0971-8257). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240307141128/https://ow.pubmatic.com/setuid?bidder=amx&uid=4895c12c-e1e4-4d4d-88dd-a046be2ae856&do=timesofindia.indiatimes.com) 2024-03-07 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2024-03-07.

1. Blauelie, Dennis William (19 June 1958). ["Registo De Casamento Canónico"](https://services.goaonline.gov.in/VWXJW6vEpQrDFBaVNsjMUw66DfH3saxZpCV9zkkxHjVLHq7nDrwPSSJ8-QuYQ7smxUl4eZ99O31318c3K9SyrWi6_8JI_vRGPkXaBQWGxTlONcL9XQfgDy3I-jUDJnDTsywjfj4D-Rvt-jZC7KJAn0FlhCiJtECI3atfNdNWbu4/VWX96/vEp80ZUeFHBL0zH_B_o_qI0Yn9nWEpm_kl2vuh1xW8sAol-2ZD-iDWhXpXWE_eMk/t-bc8/9nW91). *Goa Online*. Retrieved 14 December 2023.[dead link]

1. ["Tommy Afonso (Jr. Nelson) | Tiatrist | Mannkam Motiam | S3E46 | Prudent | 170823"](https://www.prudentmedia.in/mannkam-motiam/tommy-afonso-jr-nelson-tiatrist-mannkam-motiam-s3e46-prudent-170823/22883.html). *www.prudentmedia.in*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240307141249/https://www.prudentmedia.in/mannkam-motiam/tommy-afonso-jr-nelson-tiatrist-mannkam-motiam-s3e46-prudent-170823/22883.html) 2024-03-07 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2024-03-07.

1. ["Directorate of planning, statistics and evaluation and office of the chief registrar of births and deaths"](https://rbd.goa.gov.in/Certificate/DeathCertificate.aspx#aSearch). *Goa Online*. 22 June 1982. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240123154022/https://rbd.goa.gov.in/ErrorPage/500.htm?aspxerrorpath=/Certificate/DeathCertificate.aspx#aSearch) 23 January 2024 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 29 December 2023.

1. ["Take a cue from him!"](https://www.heraldgoa.in/Review/Voice-Of-Tiatr/Take-a-cue-from-him/110471). *oHeraldo*. 31 August 2022. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240223175835/https://www.heraldgoa.in/Review/Voice-Of-Tiatr/Take-a-cue-from-him/110471) 2024-02-23 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2024-03-07.

1. ["Depiction of violence in tiatrs"](https://www.thegoan.net/goa-news/depiction-of-violence-in-tiatrs/2437.html). *The Goan EveryDay*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240223180051/https://www.thegoan.net/goa-news/depiction-of-violence-in-tiatrs/2437.html) 2024-02-23 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2024-03-07.

1. ["Four-day Classic Tiatr shows in Margao packed to capacity"](https://www.heraldgoa.in/Goa/Fourday-Classic-Tiatr-shows-in-Margao-packed-to-capacity/127714). *oHeraldo*. 31 August 2022. Retrieved 2024-03-07.

1. Noronha, FN/Frederick, ["Philo de Pilerne... a Konkani Tiatr Stage Artiste from Goa, India"](http://archive.org/details/PhiloDePilerne...AKonkaniTiatrStageArtisteFromGoaIndia), retrieved 2024-03-07

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Nelson Afonso](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelson_Afonso) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelson_Afonso?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.