Film, TV and stage, Shahed Ali does it all

Shahed Ali's (L) association with Prachyanat has been for over a decade and a half.

Shahed Ali is a popular name in the country's theatre scene. He has been involved in acting and organisational activities with Prachyanat since the troupe's inception in 1997. Starting his journey as a theatre activist, he has established himself as a TV and film actor as well. In a recent chat with The Daily Star, the multi-dimensional actor talked about his journey into theatre, his achievements and more.

How did you step into the theatre sphere?
Shahed: From my student life, I regularly watched plays and in 1985, when I watched “Kirttonkhola” by Dhaka Theatre, I decided to stick to the stage. I've watched all Dhaka Theatre plays; the works of Selim Al Deen, Humayun Faridee and NasiruddinYousuff never ceased to amaze me. I inherited the passion from my jatra artiste grandpa; my father also worked on stage.

What is the most special thing -- according to you -- about being an actor?
Shahed: There's no feeling better than performing for an audience. While playing a character, I enter into my role completely. In fact, when I take a bow with the other artistes after the last scene, I feel a vacuum as I emerge from the character I am playing.

Tell us about your experiences of working in TV serials.
Shahed: Unlike stage performances, acting in drama serials allow second chances for making corrections as we can retake a shot if something goes wrong. However, what is common to theatre and TV serials is that both require the artiste to play particular roles.  In both cases, I play theatrical characters before the audience.

You've also acted in films. Among theatre, TV serials and the silver screen, which medium is your favourite?
Shahed: I'm an actor and I love acting. Theatre is in my heart, but I prefer acting in films as people can watch me act even hundred years after my death.

How would you evaluate your achievements?
Shahed: I've played key roles in most of Prachyanat's plays. Some of the much-acclaimed productions are: “Raja Ebong Onyanno,” “Koinna,” “Circus Circus,” “A Man For All Seasons” and I am lucky to have appeared in these plays. Apart from theatre, I did many TV serials, two films: “Monpura” and “Udhao” (currently in post-production) — and all these achievements are a blessing.

Tell us about your aspirations.
Shahed: At the time of its inception, we wanted Prachyanat to be the best troupe in Asia, but our dream didn't come true. Though Prachyanat now has its own identity, I dream one day it'll be the best troupe in the continent. I'm an artiste, and evoking joy and entertainment is my duty; I want to live on in the hearts of the audience for a thousand years.