Shabdabali, Barisal holds theatre festival on 40th anniversary of Independence

Shabdabali initiated a studio theatre in Barisal two decades ago.
So far the troupe has staged 812 shows of 22 productions all around the country.
The five-day festival was inaugurated by Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Dipu Moni. The opening programme was held at the National Theatre Hall of BSA. The minister, an avid follower of Shabdabali's plays, praised the troupe's efforts spanning two decades and wished it success. Dr. Dipu Moni was also honoured by the troupe at the programme.
ITI Worldwide President Ramendu Majumdar was the chief guest. Liaquat Ali Lucky, director general of BSA, and Jhuna Chowdhury, secretary general of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation, were special guests. Shahanara Begum, chairperson to advisory committee of Shabdabali, presided over the ceremony, while chief of the troupe, Syed Dulal, gave the welcome speech.
Syed Dulal briefly informed all on the troupe's activities and talked about its struggles. “When initiating studio theatre, we were inspired by Group Theatre Federation's activities at the time. We feel fortunate that we have a space to showcase our activities but it wasn't without struggles,” Dulal said.
On the inaugural day, three plays were staged at the three BSA venues. All the plays staged on the inaugural day were based on the theme of Liberation War.
After the inaugural ceremony, Loko Natyadal (Siddheswari) staged “Mujib Maney Mukti” at the Main Hall, while Mahakal and Palakar respectively staged “Ghum Nei” and “Rifle” at the Experimental and Studio Theatre Hall.
“Mujib Maney Mukti” zooms in on the life and achievements of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Liaquat Ali Lucky planned, compiled and directed the play.
Mahakal's “Ghum Nei” has been written by Nasiruddin Yusuf and directed by John Martin. “Rifle” has been adapted into Bangla from a writing by Bertolt Brecht. The play has been adapted by Amit Chanda. Ashiqur Rahman is the director of the play.
No play will be staged today. Tomorrow, Shabdabali will stage “Phona” and Prachyanat will stage “Mayer Mukh” respectively at the Experimental and Studio Theatre Hall. Theatre (Bailey Road) will stage “Payer Awaj Pawa Jae” on January 12 at the Experimental Theatre Hall.
This is the first phase of the festival. The troupe will hold another five-day festival at its Studio Theatre in Barisal, from January 20 to 24.