Padatik Natya Sangsad’s ‘Prerona’ promotes autism awareness

Popular theatre troupe Padatik Natya Sangsad's 33rd production "Prerona'' premiered at Bangladesh Mahila Samity's Nilima Ibrahim Auditorium yesterday, marking World Autism Awareness Day. The play is written and directed by Sabil Reza Chowdhury. "Prerona" highlights the story of a child who is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Noted actor Lucky Enam, Director General of Shishu Academy and Board Member of Bangladesh Group Theater Federation, was present as the special guest. Jowaherul Islam Mamun, President, SWID Bangladesh, were also in attendance, among others.

Cultural personality Selim Shamsul Huda Chowdhury, the chief of Padatik Bangladesh, sent a video message from Canada, wishing good luck to his team.

The inaugural ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by the acting chief Sabil Reza Chowdhury. "Prerona is not just a play, but our attempt to raise awareness regarding autism both at home and abroad," he said. "We aim at staging this play on platforms all over the world in the next two years."

The play featured actors Samia Chowdhury Joey (Pori), Sadia Baidum Makhnun and Dolly Akhter (Mayaboti), and Sabil Reza Chowdhury (Shanto). The background voice and narration were done by Dr Shahadat Hossain Nipu. Polash Hendrey Sen is the stage director of the production, whereas Omlaan Biswas and Mamun Abdullah were the light and music directors, respectively. The costume and choreography were done by Sadia Baidum Makhnun.