100 years of Manipuri theatre celebrated

Imphal, March 27: The Panthoibi Natya Mandir observed the 24th World Theatre Day today at the conference hall of the state Guest House. The observation of the day was highlighted by addresses of renowned theatre directors on the topic of retrospection on 100 years of Manipuri theatre. Forum for Laboratory Theatre, FFLT director, Dr Lokendra Arambam initiated the interaction on the 100 years of Manipuri theatre in his deliberations and explored the system of patronage of the theatre in the last 50 years of colonial India during which no signs of growth showed. Lokendra paid tribute to the uncounted contribution made by elders of yesteryears who arc less credited at present but who stood tall in the bygone eras. Appreciating the yeoman service rendered by artists in setting up of Manipur Dramatic Union, Rupmahal Theatre and Aryan Theatre, he stated that their zeal and the love for theatre is worth counting, he said. Coming on to the contemporary theatre, the FFLT director dwelt upon the crises faced by theatres at present and contributions for its development. He also explored the project based theatre which has become anvils for certain individual needs. Later, as a part of the discussion, renowned directors like Kanhailal, MC Thoiba, Dr N Premchand and professor Sadananda among others also joined the deliberations. Though no concrete medium of understanding was emulated, the gathering expressed the need for a far broader discussion in its next edition of the observation which will enhance more understanding on the contemporary theatre.