'Platform needed in State for drama artists to grow'
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 07 2017:
Contributions of Manipuri theatre in the field of art is well-known across the country.
Despite this, seasoned theatre artists are yet to be provided required assistance in order to retain and enrich Manipuri theatre.
Speaking exclusively to The Sangai Express, MDU secretary Athokpam Khol chandra said, "MDU which was founded under the leadership of Chingakham Mayurdhanraja, Nongmai them Thanil, Sorokhaibam Lalit, Ngangbam Shyamkishore (Yaiskul Lakpa), Hijam Irabot and Khomdram Dhanchandra is still producing numerous dramas written by more than 30 eminent writers" .
"Manipur State Kala Akademi and Art and Culture have been providing Rs 30,000-Rs 40,000 each every year to MDU.
Through these funds, MDU is able to produce dramas successfully.
Earlier, the ticket was sold between Rs 2 and Rs 5 per head.
Now it is sold at Rs 20 per head.
Invite system is used while screening new dramas," he added.
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"Around 25 artists are required to produce one drama.
The fund provided by the State Government would be used in hiring lighting equipment, stage and management.
After deducting all the expenses, an artist would get just Rs 500.Most of the time, artists would not charge any fee.
As a result, it is impossible for an artist to venture into drama professionally," Athokpam Kholchandra said.
There are many students who are studying in National School of Drama, New Delhi.
Unfortunately, most of them will settle in other States as there are better opportunities.
If talented artists are given a platform, Manipur theatre can be enriched and will be known across the globe, Kholchandra asserted.
It may be noted that Manipur Dramatic Union (MDU) was established on March 15, 1931 at Yaiskul.
Haorang Leishang Shaphabi, a drama produced by MDU, won a National award on 1954 .