Children drama carnival ends with a pledge

Child performers in one of the plays

The "Sixth National Drama Festival- 2005", arranged by People's Theatre Association (PTA), ended with enthusiasm and the participation of about 2000 children. There was much to choose from- 68 theatrical productions of 65 theatre troupes coming from different corners of the country.

Another interesting aspect was that the World's Children Drama Day on March 20 coincided with this festival. This explains why PTA made some special arrangements to observe this landmark day: besides regular staging of four plays a day there were some colourful cultural performances such as songs and dances by the activists of PTA.

There was a good turnout of children at the Public Library Auditorium on the day of the drama festival on March 24. Among the audience was Senjuti Sarkar, a student of Viqarunnesa School who came two days and watched four plays in the festival. As Senjuti said, "I have enjoyed the performance of my contemporaries in the festival. I also take part in my school's cultural events and therefore, have an idea about acting techniques in children's drama. I believe that my experience at the festival will help me to act in such productions arranged by our school. I hope for more such programmes in the future."

Tania Alam, a college student, was amongst hundreds of viewers who came at the closing day. Tania said, "I came with my family to watch 10 plays in the festival. I wish there were more festivals like this."

Satyen Pal, a parent, said, "In our country there is a lack of outdoor recreation for children. During the festival days we got a chance to acquaint our children about our culture."

The festival attracted not only the masses, but also celebrities like Mamunur Rashid, Jamaluddin Hossain, Keramat Moula, Tariq Anam, Shahiduzzaman Selim, Azizul Hakim and others who went there to encourage future artistes.

On the future plan of PTA, Liaquat Ali Lucky, the Secretary General of PTA, said, "Next year, we hope to arrange an international standard children drama festival, including Saarc countries. Moreover, we are planning to popularise other children drama forms like Grips Theatre, Shadow Theatre, School Theatre and others."