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Theatre art reaches Manipur hilly areas
by LCK Singh

     Ukhrul (Manipur): To promote theatrical art in Manipur’s hilly areas, for the first time, a 45–day theatre workshop cum production programme is being held in remote area of the state. The event has been organised at Tongou village in Ukhrul District, around 80 kilometres from Imphal. It is taking theatre activities to the hill districts for the first time in Manipur. Hosted by Zingso Arts and Films, the theatre workshop cum production is being organised as part of the 'Extension Programme' of the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi . "Though Manipur is very famous in the field of theatre in India and also being recognized internationally, but I feel disappointed to see the hill people lagging behind in the field of theatre. That has motivated me to find out whether they do not have any interest or they have not been introduced in the theatre field. That is how I started this workshop," said Thanileima, Director of the workshop. The workshop’s objective is to promote the rich cultural tradition of the ethnic groups of the state at the state and national level. Trainees participating in the workshop expressed happiness and Content with their first experience in the theatrical world. "I have never thought that such theatre workshop would ever be conducted here. People in our village are passionate about films, arts and theatre. We are very fortunate and happy to receive such training," said Ahor Ngalonung, a trainee. About 40 individuals including young artistes from five different villages are attending the workshop. After conclusion of the workshop, their production would be showcased at the drama festival of the National School of Drama. Director of the workshop Thanileima informed the need of promoting the theatre movement in the hill areas has inspired her to take up the initiative. Having started on May 1 the workshop will last till June 15.
-May 11, 2009