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NT Reporter The tiatr fraternity is mourning the loss of one of its cherished voices, Joaquim Santana Marques, popularly known as Marques Pereira. He passed away on Wednesday following a brief illness. He was 60. Pereira was known for his multifaceted talent as a singer, writer, director, lyricist, and composer. He enriched the tiatr world for over four decades. His distinctive voice, deeply rooted storytelling, and unwavering dedication to the art form have left an enduring legacy. Born on January 12, 1965, in Betalbatim, Salcete, Pereira was introduced to tiatr at a young age by his uncle, the late Francis Anton Pereira, a traditional folk playwright and composer of cantos for ‘Zomnivele Khell’. He was also heavily influenced by Anthony of ‘Trio Kings’, whose musical styling helped shape his own creative direction. Pereira composed over 600 songs, including solos, duets, trios, ‘chovkos’, and duos. Many of these were performed in tiatrs staged for the Kala Academy Tiatr Competition, as well as by various other groups and institutions. He was especially noted for his work with tiatrist Derrick Dmello, having performed in Dmello’s acclaimed 2009 tiatr ‘Kallokhi Uzvadd’, and composed songs and cantos for several of his other competition entries, including ‘Teag’, ‘Vadoll’, ‘Ekvott vho Duspott’, ‘Tumcho Sangat’, ‘Mullam’, and ‘Vossad’. His lyrical themes often reflected real-life incidents, with songs structured as compelling narratives that resonated deeply with audiences. Although he was most comfortable with solos and trios, he frequently collaborated with fellow tiatrists such as Martha and Melisha on duets. In addition to his contributions in Goa, Pereira also expanded his reach while working abroad. After stints in Mumbai, Dubai, and Kuwait, he released his first CD/VCD titled ‘Saibinnichim Vizmitam’, which was well-received among the Goan diaspora. Expressing deep sorrow over his passing, Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG) president Anthony Barbosa said, “Marques Pereira was a well-known lyricist and singer. He was one of the artists who worked for tiatrs with dedication throughout his life and inspired many young tiatrists through his work and commitment.”
