Artiste community calls for more dramatics

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, March 27

Celebrating its 19th foundation day as well as World Theatre Day, Punjab Natshala honoured theatre artistes for their contribution towards Punjabi theatre. With a mix of folk music, dance and a special show of its critically acclaimed home production, “Daughter of the Bin”, Natshala patron Jatinder Brar also praised the young generation of theatre artists, who are making a mark under the spotlight.

Rajinder Bir Singh, director, Punjabi Cultural Society, Chicago, was the chief guest of the event. He appreciated the efforts being made by the artist community in the city to carry forward the traditions of the Punjabi theatre. “Having open artistic spaces that nurture young talent and also retain the essence of theatre must be encouraged,” he said, while addressing the gathering.

Meanwhile, Brar honoured 80 artistes from 16 theatre groups, including actors, directors and production hands. Singer Shahnaz, who is visually impaired and has recently been adopted by the Natshala, also performed soulful renditions. A Gurinder Makana-directed street play was also staged for the audience during the day.

Similar enthusiasm was witnessed at Virsa Vihar, where artistes held a seminar on World Theatre Day. Kewal Dhaliwal, president, Virsa Vihar Society, read out the message of French theatre and movie actor Isabella Huppert’s to the world on the day, in which she talks about actors and evolving dynamics of theatre. “Make way for theatre,” her message says as Dhaliwal put it in the context of Punjabi theatre.

He also released Nat Sarvar and dedicated it to theatre lovers. Deep Mandeep-directed play “Hun Mein Jhooth Nahi Bolda”, was also staged. Actors including Gurmeet Bawa, Vijay Sharma, Narinder Sanghi and other artistes were present at the event.