A play has to be realistic: Masud Shezan
Masud Shezan, a journalist-turned-television director, has had long innings as a cultural activist right from his college days. Beginning his journey as a street theatre activist, Masud was closely involved with TSC based cultural organisations. Now he is a busy television director with notable single episode plays and drama serials like “Late Latif”, “Mudra Dosh”, “Mobile Court”, “Shari”, “Selfie”, “Hatem Ali” and many more to his credit. Arts & Entertainment recently caught up with him for an interview. Excerpts:
How did you become a director?
Masud: Theatre and recitation were my passion but at a certain point I felt an urge to do something different. I used to oversee the entertainment page of Daily Jugantor, and was also an active cultural activist. Then I thought of making television plays and started working on it. I directed my first play in the the latter of the 2000s.
How do you select scripts?
Masud: I write scripts for all my plays. My mind is on contemporary happenings and crises whether personal, psychological, social or political. I watch plays by both popular and new directors, and learn many things from them.
How do you select a cast?
Masud: I prioritise actors with good acting capabilities and commitment. I don't select so-called stars in my plays; instead I prefer to work with real actors. I think there are differences between stars and actors in our country.
What makes for a well-directed play?
Masud: A play has to be realistic; it has to be a pictorial description of the gradually changing emotions of human life. While making plays I strive to reflect life and the flaws in our society, sometimes through subtle satire and dark humour.
Your aspirations as a director?
Masud: I always dream of making films. I want to make something original which will reflect my taste as a director. I am looking for producers who will fund me.
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