Two-day programme begins today
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy–the premier cultural organisation of the country– celebrates its 38th founding anniversary this year. To practice and uphold local culture and to manifest and evaluate the artistes, the academy was established under the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Act 1974.
Now the Academy is functioning under the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Ordinance 1989. To celebrate the journey, the academy has arranged a two-day programme that starts this morning through a rally. A cultural programme and informal gathering by artistes are the other major components of the celebration. Information and Culture Minister Abul Kalam Azad is expected to inaugurate the celebration at the National Theatre Hall.
Over the years the academy has been treated as the main hub for theatre practice, especially after the establishment of National Theatre Hall in recent years. However, all kinds of other cultural activities take place throughout every year.
The academy consists of five administrative divisions: Research and Publication Division; Finance, Accounts and Planning Division; Fine Arts Division; Drama and Film Division and Music and Dance Division. These divisions are run by five directors. The Director General, is the chief executive of the academy. Liaquat Ali Lucky is the present Director General of the academy. The stage of plays six days a week (except Tuesday), regular festivals and seminars keep the academy abuzz.
A 750-seat National Theatre Hall is the main hub of theatre practice of the country. A 300- seat Experimental Theatre Hall is reserved for staging plays. Studio Theatre Hall and a few rehearsal rooms attract theatre activists.
Recently, the academy has ventured into the arena of celluloid by regular screenings of world classics.
The 9960- square ft National Art Gallery is mostly being used for large scale exhibitions. The adjacent plaza can be used for discussions, seminars and cultural functions.
The National Music and Dance Centre has been promoting traditional artistes over the years. The use of the open space for festivals, especially in winter season, gives the academy an appealing ambience.
-With The Daily Star input
