“Theatre is the ultimate example of teamwork”

Tropa Majumdar is a name known to all for her various identities; this star child, theatre activist also known as the head of creative and social communication department in a well-known advertising agency, shared her views as a theatre director with this correspondent.

How do you plan a play?

Tropa: The first step is choosing a topic and creating a script, or adapting one. Next is research regarding the topic, and compilation of information. After that, close reading process takes place repetitively to find out various subtexts of the play. To enhance the understanding of the character, character analysis is done by taking account of social, cultural, psychological and other contexts. Then rehearsal starts. However, I do prepare a plan beforehand on the basis of my requirements, and during the rehearsals we finalise everything. Plus involvement of lights, music, set and choreography in-charges are encouraged from the beginning, so that they can understand and fulfill the technical needs of the play by contrasting my requirements.  Lastly the technical rehearsal starts where we review and correct our errors and performances.

How do you see the mechanism of a play while it is staged?

Tropa: In theatre, everything is based on live performance and there is no chance of correction; theatre is an ultimate example of teamwork, as it demands the effort of every individual. So in my view, it is an individual's responsibility and teamwork that helps to prepare an organised play.

What is your take on the future of theatre in Bangladesh?

Tropa: In the field of theatre, professionalism is very common. The challenging part is to attract viewers. The theatre has a crisis of viewers.

Is there any marketing strategy or way to promote theatre?

Tropa: There is not enough financial support behind marketing and promotions. Therefore, it is another limit we face regarding promoting theatrical activities.

Can you share a few guidelines for the newcomers?

Tropa: There are various public and private universities that offer theatre studies, so for beginners it is a good idea. The second is one have to watch a lot of plays to learn through experience. Plus enrolling in theatre school can always help.