The show gets better

Mona

‘Adapt or perish, now as ever, is nature’s inexorable imperative,’ wrote H. G. Wells…looks like City Beautiful is taking the The Time Machine’s writer’s words seriously!

Tagore Theatre, the favourite place of theatre-lovers, is in for changes. What the audience would get to see and immediately use is a mini-theatre with a seating capacity of 100.  Wooden flooring, retractable chairs that can be moved to any side; green-rooms for male and female artistes, this soundproof, air-conditioned space is perfect for shows meant for a small audience. 

Inaugurated on May 3, one show has already been staged here. “A very good move,” says Mukesh Sharma, director, Samvaad Theatre Group, whose play Adhyaye was staged here on May 14. Perfect, little space for experimental theatre, the place could play a significant role for those who want to stage and see something not mainstream.

Scope for more 

While the space is only significant for any theatre troupe, Mukesh mentions how it could be made better. “There are few technical glitches — like the entry to seating is through the stage and there is little backstage connectivity, but a little adaptation here or there and it could be made functional,” he says, while also making case for keeping a provision to have air-conditioning on when artistes are preparing for the show and not just during the show alone.

Also, the main theatre is under renovation, beginning with greenroom for male artistes — new tiles, water cooler, full-length mirrors; it should offer a comfortable space for the performers. 

Then there are two rehearsal rooms, which are air-conditioned, sound-proof and offer excellent space for practice. “Divided in time slots, each day eight groups can make use of these,” offers Parmod Sharma, assistant director, Tagore Theatre. “Recently, we have made use of the rehearsal rooms free of charges,” pitches in Balkar Sidhu, director, Tagore Theatre. The duo is also kicked about ambitious 24x7 canteen, which is in process.

Ticketed shows

Very evident are the newly plated rows and seat numbers at Tagore Theatre. With ticketed shows becoming a reality more often than not, it works to have a clear system in place. “While tickets less than Rs 200 are tax-free, more than that will attract a 30 per cent tax,” offers Balkar Sidhu.

With Chandigarh Theatre Festival starting May 26th, it’s about time to feel and enjoy the new change. The tickets for the festival are available on tagoretheatrechd.org.

mona@tribunemail.com