Live theatre returning to form with new plays
With the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic, live theatre came to an abrupt halt. Performing on a stage was no longer considered safe, and neither was being part of an audience. But theatre artistes are now slowly gearing up for new projects.
"It is amazing to see so many new productions on the way," said renowned thespian Ramendu Majumdar. "I believe it is a huge achievement for the theatre community."
Kamal Bayezid, General Secretary of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation, said that theatre is a passion for those who are associated with it. "After a break, we are working in full swing and bringing numerous new stories for the audience," he shared.
New plays will be organised at three halls of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) as well as Bangladesh Mahila Samity soon.
Dhaka Theatre has already introduced the Shahiduzzaman Selim directorial, "Ekti Loukik Athoba Aloukik Steamer". The play is written by Anan Zaman, and features Farzana Chumki.
On the other hand, Tauquir Ahmed is at rehearsals of his new production from his group, Natyokendra. The play, "Ondhokar", is also written by him.
Ananta Hira is a renowned name in theatre. He is set to introduce "Mriter Atmahattya", with Pramgonemor. The production is written and directed by him.
Prangonemor will be bringing one more production, "Potaka Pagol", written by Ananta Hira and directed by Nuna Afroze.
On November 13, under Rezanur Rahman's direction, a new play by theatre troupe Ethic, "Aynaghor", was staged at BSA. The play revolves around a family, which is living in peace and harmony, but their joyous days come to an end due to a rape incident.
Popular group BotTola is rehearsing for their new production "Shohote Mask". Directed by Pankaj Mazumder, the play will be staged soon.
Moreover, "Objection Overruled", written and directed by Mahbub Alam from Anurag Theatre, is in the making.
Theatre group Sanskar is gearing up for their new play, "Geetichandraboti" written by Nayanchad Ghosh and directed by Yousuf Hasan.
Meanwhile, Noibeddyo Theatre has been rehearsing for the play, "Prottyabrita" for the last few months. It is an adaptation of Anton Chekhov's story, by Bibi Kaniz. The play is directed by Rajib Reza.
The group Anushwar is gearing up for the Mohammad Bari directorial "Mullyo Amullyo", which will mark Abul Hayat's return to the stage after a long time.
Aranyak Natyadal has already staged "Kohe Facebook" this year. Thespian Manunur Rashid, who spearheads the group, shared that they are working on their upcoming play, "Noi".
Dhaka Theatre and Desh Natok will launch a joint venture, directed by eminent cultural and theatre personality Nasiruddin Yousuff. They have started the rehearsals online. Afzal Hossain will be returning to the stage after a long time with this play.
Desh Natok is currently working on three new productions, one of which is "Paro", directed by Masum Reza. Their other play, "Chinu Gayener Pesha O Prem", will be directed by Fahim Malek Evan, while the play, "Shoktirup", will be directed by Mamun Chowdhury.
Translated by Sharmin Joya