Masum Reza: Back to the stage after 17 years
“Surgaon” to premiere today at BSA
Masum Reza is one of the popular playwrights of the current time, with hits like “Ranger Manush” under his belt. Besides TV dramas, he has directed plays for theatre. He recently directed a stage play after a 17-year pause. The first staging of the play, “Surgaon”, will be held today at 7pm at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA). The Bangla Academy award winner talked about his fresh venture in a recent chit chat with The Daily Star.
Tell us about your new stage play, “Surgaon”?
Masum Reza: “Surgaon” is a village where an elders teach everyone, even the criminals, how to play flute. The criminals get a new life through the learning.
When did you write the play?
Masum Reza: Although I wrote it last year, the idea clicked into my mind three years ago. When I started the play, I completed it within a week.
What's your expectation from “Surgaon”?
Masum Reza: I'm really very optimistic about it. “Surgaon” is new trend of stage plays and I hope that it will amuse the audiences.
You are directing a stage play after 17 years. What's your feeling about this?
Masum Reza: I'm really excited. I last directed the play “Nityo Puran” for my troupe Desh Natok. After a long gap, it's a special feeling to be working for the stage.
What type of hurdles did you face during direction on stage?
Masum Reza: There's no big problem, but there are some points to consider over rehearsals every day. As most cast members have a day job, it is a bit tough to join rehearsal in time regularly. Amid the time constraint, everyone tried to join the sessions with love and passion.
Who's your favourite character from the play?
Masum Reza: Aushto Kala is one of the central characters; he lives his life in poverty. At one stage, he is asked to 'eat sunlight' standing in scorching heat. And then he is given the lure of metal coins, but he does not fall for the greed. His honesty really touches me.