Seventy-one theatre organisations from across Dhaka have united to form a platform to boost theatre practice by cultivating a more theatre-oriented audience, and invigorating theatre groups and members. Established last month, the platform is called Dhaka Mohanagar Natya Parishad. The organisation announced plans to host theatre festivals at various venues starting this month, led by the initiative of the board. As part of this effort, the first phase of the Dhaka Mohanagar Natya Utsab will span 14 days.

The festival will kick off on February 15 at Mohila Samity's Dr Nilima Ibrahim Auditorium. Over a dozen theatre groups from Dhaka's vibrant stage scene, including Aranyak, Theater, Nattokendro, Anuswar, Dhaka Theatre, Prachyanat, and Agantuk, will take part in the event.

The festival's opening day on February 15 will showcase the acclaimed production "Payer Awaj Pawa Jay" by the Theatre troupe. Following that, on February 16, Loko Natyadal (Banani) will present "Konjus", while on February 17, the Theatre Art Unit will stage "Boloy". On February 18, Nattokendro will perform "Punnaho", and on February 19, Anuswar will present "Harmachis Cleopatra". February 20 will feature Dhaka Theatre's "Ghor Jamai", and on February 21, Prachyanat will present "Kinu Kaharer Thetar".

In addition, Dhaka Theatre will present "Ekti Loukik Athoba Aloukik Steamer" on February 22, followed by Soukhin Theater's "Antaraler Ayna" on February 23, Nattyapala's "Bagh" on February 24, Aranyak Natyadal's "Mayur Singhasan" on February 25, Agantuk's "Ondhokare Mithen" on February 26, Padatik Nattya Sangsad TSC's "Gunjan Bibir Pala" on February 27, and Prangonemor Theatre Bangladesh's "Shesher Kobita" on the final day, February 28.

Read more

8 cultural personalities who will be conferred with the Ekushey Padak

The festival aims to transform Dhaka's stages, including the National Theatre's three auditoriums at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Mohila Samity's Auditorium, and the Zahir Raihan Cultural Center, into more theatre-friendly spaces while boosting audience attendance. 

Following the first phase in February, the 71 theatre groups will perform their productions across five additional auditoriums in subsequent phases, expanding the festival as more venues become available.