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.