Srinagar, Nov 04: The renowned National School of Drama (NSD) Repertory Company is joining forces with the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL) to present the highly anticipated Srinagar Theatre Festival 2023.
The cultural extravaganza will grace the scenic city of Srinagar from November 6th to 10th, 2023.
The festival 2023 is poised to be a platform where artists and theater enthusiasts can come together to appreciate the beauty of live performances.
Addressing the Press Conference in Srinagar, Rajesh Singh, Chief of the Repertory Company at the National School of Drama, said that the festival’s inaugural ceremony will be honored by the esteemed presence of Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary of J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, who will serve as the Guest of Honour.
Additionally, the event will be graced by the presence of Bharat Singh Manhas and Bashir Dada, who will be the Special Guests, adding prestige and significance to the occasion, he said.
Singh said the inaugural ceremony of the festival will feature “Laila Majnu”, a play written by Ismail Chunara and directed by the distinguished figure of Indian Theatre, Padma Shri, Prof Ram Gopal Bajaj.
“Throughout the festival’s duration, audiences can anticipate a diverse array of compelling plays, including “Khoob Ladi Mardaani Subhadra Ki Zubani” by Asif Ali, directed by Bharti Sharma, “Maai Ri Main Ka Se Kahun,” a musical adaptation based on Vijaydan Detha’s story Dhuvidha, directed by Ajay Kumar.” he said.
“Andha Yug” by Dharamvir Bharti, under the direction of Padma Shri Prof Ram Gopal Bajaj, and “Taj Mahal Ka Tender” written by Ajay Shukla and directed by Chittaranjan Tripathy.
On the occasion, the inaugural address will be delivered by Shri Paresh Rawal, Chairperson, NSD Society and presided over by Chittaranjan Tripathy, Director, NSD. Mr. M. Amin Bhat, Mr. Nisar Naseem, Mr. Mushtaque Ali Ahmad Khan, Mr. Ayash Arif will also attend the said event.
Singh urged the public to seize this extraordinary and unforgettable festival as a rare chance.
He encouraged everyone to mark their calendars for the festival, scheduled from November 6th to 10th, 2023.
“The plays will grace the stage daily at 3:00 PM at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, with admission on a first-come, first-serve basis, making it an accessible and cost-free cultural experience for all,” he said.
In June and July, the NSD Repertory Company orchestrated the Summer Theatre Festival 2023 across diverse locations in Odisha and Delhi, engaging with approximately 1,04,000 individuals across various aspects of the festival.
The company continues to serve as a professional platform for NSD graduates, aspiring theatre artists from other drama schools, and seasoned practitioners, contributing significantly to India’s thriving theatre scene.