31st All Manipur Drama Festival commences
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, April 03 2023:
In connection with the golden jubilee celebration of Manipur State Kala Akademi, Imphal; the 31st All Manipur Drama Festival 2022-23 was inaugurated at Chandrakirti auditorium, Palace Compound, here, on Monday.
Presided over by Golden Jubilee Celebration Sub-Committee (Theatre and Shumang Leela) chairman L Brajamohan, the inaugural function of the 9-day festival was attended by Hiyanglam MLA Dr Y Radheshyam as chief guest.
In his speech, MLA Radheshyam stressed the need for formulating and implementing a 'cultural policy', suitable to Manipur so as to protect its rich cultural heritage and bring in more recognition.
He then assured of extending all possible help from his side in this regard.
Recounting the golden age of Manipuri proscenium the atre, the MLA, however, said that the art form has now lost its sheen.
Thus, efforts need to be made to revitalise this art form including making it more attractive so as to increase its audience, he stated.
He then expressed firm belief that Manipur State Kala Akademi, despite its many difficulties, would be able to bring about new changes in theatre by organising the festival annually.
This will not only help speed up the proscenium theatre movement but also encourage new theatre artistes, he remarked, while assuring all possible assistance to the Akademi in this regard.
In addition, the government has been focussing to preserve the culture of the state including establishing the Manipur University of Culture with different departments offering varied courses and launching the Chief Minister Artistsingi Tengbang (CMAT), the MLA conveyed.
Speaking on the occasion, L Brajamohan appreciated the Akademi for organising the festival.
Around 9 theatre groups are participating in the festival, he said, while expressing wish for other theatre groups to participate so as to make the festival grander.
During the festival which will go on till April 11, the nine theatre groups, namely Manipur Dramatic Union (MDU), Society Theatre Manipur, Rupmahal Theatre, Langmeidong Dramatic Union, Kakching Dramatic Union, Public Theatre, Kalakshetra Manipur, Aryan Theatre and Chorus Repertory Theatre, will be performing their respective plays.
As part of the inaugural function, the dignitaries also released a brochure of the festival.