" Young talents in theatre need motivation,"

Anu performs as protagonist in “Amina Shundari”. Photo Courtesy: Theatre Art Unit

Though there are a large number of talented youngsters in the current theatre arena, they are not consistent in their efforts to hone their talent, feels Fauzia Karim Anu, actor of Theatre Art Unit. She says motivation by troupes and seniors as well as dedication by youngsters is needed to keep the theatre journey running smoothly.
Anu herself is a young talent. Since her initiation into theatre in 2002, she has observed a gradual change in theatre, which according to her is a welcome phenomenon. Although the lure of electronic media is apparent, youngsters are significantly interested in theatre, she asserted.
“Theatre is a compact medium. Just as acting is important to a performer, an understanding of light and sound is vital. Ideally, young theatre activists should have a sufficient grounding in these aspects,” said Anu.
“There was a time, when individuals thought twice before studying the fine arts. Now even parents are open to the idea of their children opting for the medium. Theatre holds much appeal for those interested in the arts. We want to pursue our goals in this medium; what we need is support.”
Anu gained an introduction to theatre through her present troupe, Theatre Art Unit. So far she has performed in several of the troupe's plays including “Shomoyer Proyojone”, “Court Martial”, “Amina Shundari” and “Shesher Kobita”. She performs as protagonists in the latter two productions.
Though Anu is dedicated to stage performances, she wants to be a director in the future. However, she has to juggle her time as she has a job as well. “It is a tightrope walk to fit in time for theatre. Sometimes we light-heartedly tell our seniors to give us a small remuneration so that we can devote ourselves full time to theatre,” she said.
Anu feels that theatre will touch new heights with greater professionalism. “I have to do a job to survive. Sometimes it becomes stressful when there is a show around the corner. Every performer needs extra time to feel relaxed prior to a show. But we cannot manage the time,” she said.
Anu sees the dawn of professionalism, especially activities of repertory troupes, as a positive aspect. “The process has begun. Some repertory troupes are active on the scene and they are working step by step to infuse professionalism. It will grow. If you see the transformation of theatre from Bailey Road to National Theatre Hall, you can see the gradual change and this is a big achievement. So, if we keep on the journey, professionalism will be possible someday,” she said, adding, “We need government support.”
Anu concluded the conversation by expressing the hope that organisations like Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy will play a more active role in promoting theatre in the future.