Dhaka Theatre Festival Concludes with Grand Celebrations

The second phase of the festival came to an end on Monday, September 14, with a closing ceremony held at the National Theatre Hall of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in the capital. During the nine-day second phase, nine productions by nine theatre troupes from across the country were staged.

DSCC Administrator and freedom fighter Md Abdus Salam attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest. The programme was chaired by DSCC Chief Executive Officer Md Khaybar Rahman.

Earlier, the first phase of the festival was held from August 16 to 23 at the Zahir Raihan Cultural Centre auditorium in Sutrapur, Old Dhaka. The second phase began on September 6 at the main auditorium of the National Theatre Hall and continued until September 14.

The productions staged during the second phase included Kinu Kaharer Theatre by Prachyanat, Kanjoos by Lok Natya Dal (Banani), Trial of Surya Sen by Dhaka Padatik, Aleya by Banshori Repertory Theatre, Company by Aranyak Natyadal, Amina Sundari by Theatre Art Unit, Kanthanolite Surya by Tirandaj Repertory, Se Ek Swapner Raat by Drishtipat Natyadal, and Sea-Morog by Bangladesh Theatre.

In his speech, the DSCC Administrator said the responsibilities of a city corporation are not limited to maintaining cleanliness and collecting taxes. Creating opportunities for recreation and presenting the history and heritage of Dhaka to the younger generation are also among its important responsibilities.

He said that fostering love for the city would help develop a sense of responsibility and respect among citizens, which would also contribute to environmental conservation.

Emphasising the preservation of Dhaka’s historical landmarks, he said renovation work was underway to restore structures, including Lal Kuthi, to their original form. Initiatives are also being taken to organise educational tours for students on holidays to historic sites such as Curzon Hall, the Central Shaheed Minar, Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil.

He also assured that special concessions would be provided to cultural organisations for using auditoriums and community centres under the jurisdiction of the Dhaka South City Corporation.

At the end of the programme, the DSCC Administrator presented commemorative crests, certificates and gifts to the participating theatre troupes.