Renowned theatre troupe “Swapnadal” is set to honour the 16th death anniversary of Bangladeshi playwright and theatre artiste Natyacharya Selim Al Deen with a two-day event titled "Natyacharya Selim Al Deen Smaran Utsab."
As part of this initiative, Swapnadal will stage two of their most acclaimed productions, "Chitrangada" and "Macbeth," on January 13 and 14 at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
"Chitrangada" is scheduled for Saturday, January 13, with performances at 5:30pm and 7:30pm at the BSA's Studio Theatre Hall.
On Sunday, January 14, "Macbeth" will be showcased at 6:30pm and 7:30pm at the BSA's Experimental Theatre Hall.
In addition to the theatrical performances, Swapnadal will host the 29th edition of the festival, featuring a memorial rally, wreath placement on Selim Al Deen's grave, and discussion sessions to pay homage to the pioneering figure in Bangladesh's theatre scene.
"Chitrangada," an adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore's work, uniquely transforms the mythological princess's story into a modern-day 'jatrapala' styled drama. The troupe's innovative approach has garnered international recognition, securing a performance slot at the prestigious 23rd edition of Bharat Rang Mahotsav in Delhi in February.
"Macbeth," the 18th production of Swapnadal, adapted and edited by Juana Sobnom and directed by Zahid Ripon, tells the tragic tale of a protagonist driven by the desire to become king.
The play, premiered last year on the 15th anniversary of Selim Al Deen's death, unfolds in a black box theatre format, blending movements, gestures, facial expressions, and traditional dance forms like Raibenshe and Bharatanatyam.
Key cast members include Juana Sobnom, Hasan, Sumaiya, Nishak, Shishir, Shyamal, Zebu, Anindya, Ork, Masud, Ruhul, Sabbir, Hriday, Rocky, and other dedicated members of Swapnadal portraying various characters in the play.
