Theatre workshop to kick off on July 16, Mantri Dolansana to return on stage
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 05 2020:
Theatre Mirror and Manipur State Shumang Leela Council are planning to launch the 26th edition of the annual theatre training course on shumang Leela tradition on July 16 .
Speaking to media persons during a press meet held today at Palace Compound, Wareppa Naba, project director of the training programme, stated that this year's training course is being delayed due to the ongoing COVID lockdown.
Stating that they are planning to launch the monthlong theatre workshop on July 16 under the theme "War against Covid-19", Wareppa Naba lamented that only about 20 persons will be trained this year.
In previous editions, about 90 trainees were trained on average, he added.
The project director also said that a shumang leela entitled "The Return of Mantri Dolansana" based on COVID scenario will be released on the last day of the workshop.
Continuing that the training programme will be conducted from 7 am to 11 am following all COVID safety guidelines, Naba informed all enthusiasts to collect admission forms for the training programme from the office of Manipur State Shumang Leela Council, Palace Compound by paying Rs 300 only.
However, as the number of seats will be limited this year, the trainees will be selected by holding interviews on the day they submit application forms, he added.
Sougrakpam Hemanta has been appointed as camp director of the programme, Naba said.
Pointing out that shumang leela is an art form that helps people develop tolerance and empathy, Naba lauded titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba, who recently won the lone Rajya Sabha seat (Member of Parliament) of the State for helping famed shumang leela artiste Keirao Rajen and to the family members of late Chinglen Thiyam for their contribution to the performing art.