If we count years, BotTala is a relatively new theatre troupe that recently celebrated its sixth founding anniversary. But to count quality productions, passion and commitment, BotTala has already proved its worth and might.
Being one of the vibrant local troupes, BotTala has chalked out its first international theatre festival to be held later this month. Beginning on October 24, the eight day festival will feature plays and performances by local, Indian and American troupes and artistes.
BotTala has invited seven top local troupes to stage their recent productions. The list includes Aranyak’s Swapnapothik, Prachyanat’s Bon Manush, Theatre’s Kuhakjal, Theatre Art Unit’s Na Manushi Jamin, Nagarik Natya Sampraday’s Naamgotrohin, Dhaka Theatre’s The Outsider and the host troupe’s The Trial of Mallam Ilya.
Besides, Indian troupe Rangashram and versatile American theatre actor Kawalani Lee will present a play and a performance respectively.
All these shows are scheduled to take place at National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The hall of the Academy however, will not be the only place of attraction for the audiences; the festival will also have a wide array of activities lined up to take place in front of the hall. The festival will feature diverse performances like dance numbers by Puja Sengupta-led troupe Turangami, evening of Lalon songs, Geetolbanga’s songs, street play Jotugriha by the host troupe, mime by Nithor Mahbub, puppet show and more.
In addition, Kawalani Lee will conduct a two-day workshop at the same venue on plays that address working-class people’s struggle on October 29 and 30.
‘We initially planned to organise the festival in August to celebrate BotTala’s founding anniversary. Due to unavailability of venues that month we had to postpone it. The festival, I hope, will express our unwavering commitment to theatre’, said Samina Luthfa Nitra, theatre activist-playwright and member of BotTala.
-With New Age input
