‘Success is incidental; shouldn’t be the primary goal’: Ranvir Shorey on his career spanning two decades

“I don’t subscribe to the idea of ‘giving the audience what they demand.’ I don’t believe the audience demands anything; it’s the business side that demands success,” said actor Ranvir Shorey, known for his versatility, improvisational skills, and adaptability.

From starting as a video jockey to becoming a respected actor across television, films, and theatre, Shorey’s career has spanned over two decades. His nuanced performances in films like Khosla Ka Ghosla, Sonchiriya, and Titli have earned him widespread acclaim.

While cinema remains his first love, Shorey regularly returns to the stage, performing in at least one play each year to continually hone his craft. He is currently rehearsing for actor-director Rajat Kapoor’s Macbeth-inspired play What’s Done Is Done, set to feature in the fifth edition of the Delhi Theatre Festival.

In an exclusive interview with indianexpress.com, Shorey reflects on his artistic journey, stressing the importance of storytelling over success, the invaluable lessons from Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and his deep affinity for theatre.

Read the edited excerpts below:

Q: Having had such a diverse career, how do you feel your approach to storytelling has evolved?

Ranvir Shorey: The passion for good storytelling stays constant, what evolves is your understanding of the different mediums. You learn the ropes of each one—whether it’s television, cinema, or theatre, and more technical things. Your aesthetics improve, especially when you work with the right people. You gain more knowledge over time and the horizons broaden. That’s been my journey.

Q: As you’ve also been actively involved in theatre, what inspired your continuous involvement?

Ranvir Shorey: I’ve always had at least one play running for nearly 25 years. I don’t do a lot of shows—maybe a dozen a year—but I keep revisiting the stage. Theatre isn’t my first love; cinema is. But, I have a strong affinity for theatre because it helps me hone my craft. It’s not just about performing, it’s about working with the right people and continuing to improve.

Q: Many actors view theatre as more spontaneous and collaborative compared to films. How do you feel theatre helps you grow as an actor?

Ranvir Shorey: Theatre is actor-intensive. Unlike filmmaking, where the director and editor have significant control, theatre relies heavily on the actor. Once the show begins, it’s all on the actor to deliver. For me, theatre has been an incredible place to refine my skills—whether it’s learning lines, hitting marks, or finding new nuances in repetition. The live aspect of theatre is a different kind of pressure, and that makes you a better actor.

Q: How does the difference in audience interaction influence your acting and craft on stage compared to on-screen?

Ranvir Shorey/Instagram

Ranvir Shorey: Acting for the camera and acting on stage are technically different. On stage, there’s an immediate connection with the audience, and that gives you instant gratification. The challenge with film is to connect with the audience long after the film is made, especially in independent films. Each medium has its own set of challenges, both in terms of performance and in reaching the audience.

Q: How do you balance the artistic aspects of your work with the commercial demands of the industry?

Ranvir Shorey: I don’t subscribe to the idea of giving the audience what they demand because, honestly, I don’t think the audience demands anything. It’s the business side that demands success. For me, both theatre and film are art forms and should be pursued as such. Success is incidental; it shouldn’t be the primary goal.

Q: In theatre, there’s an element of improvisation. Do you find that improv plays a role in your film work as well? 

Ranvir Shorey: Absolutely. Improvisation isn’t limited to theatre—it happens in front of the camera too. Some directors encourage it, some don’t, but it’s a fundamental part of acting. It allows for more organic performances, whether on stage or screen.

Q: As an actor, how have you interpreted classic Shakespearean characters for a contemporary adaptation of What’s Done is Done for the Delhi Theatre Festival?

It’s that time of the year again! Shows of Rajat Kapoor’s ‘What’s Done is Done’, based on Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’, this weekend in #Kolkata, and next weekend in #Delhi for the Delhi Theatre Festival.
See y’all there! 🤗❤️ pic.twitter.com/QUQIqp6MUX

— Ranvir Shorey (@RanvirShorey) September 12, 2024

Ranvir Shorey: The play is part of a series directed by Rajat Kapoor where we reinterpret Shakespeare’s works through clowns. What’s Done is Done is our take on Macbeth. We tell the story of Macbeth but also add a layer of humour, taking a dig at it from an outsider’s perspective. It’s a fun, contemporary way to engage with the audience while still paying homage to the original text.

Q: Is there a particular theme or message in What’s Done is Done that resonated with you?

Ranvir Shorey: Absolutely. The themes in Macbeth are timeless. One of the biggest lessons is choosing the right life partner, which resonates even today. The wrong partner can make your life hell, while the right one can make it amazing. That’s a message that transcends time.

Q: You’ve been acting for over two decades now. Are there any new areas in theatre or cinema that you aspire to explore?

Ranvir Shorey: I started my career behind the camera, so I know that’s where it might end up one day. Lately, I’ve been taking my YouTube channel more seriously, and I’ve started exploring shooting and editing. I’m also working on writing and directing, especially for digital mediums. It’s an exciting new direction for me.

Q: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring actors who are just starting in this competitive industry?

Ranvir Shorey: This is the best time to be an actor because the internet has democratised the medium. You can showcase your talent to a global audience with ease. But one piece of advice I’d give is to never compare yourself to others. That’s the quickest way to feel defeated. Focus on your journey and your growth.

Macbeth: What’s Done is Done will be performed at the Delhi Theatre Festival on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 7:00 pm.

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