Theatre's ability to succeed relies on resonating with audiences: Vinay Kumar
A scene from the play The goal of theatre is to hold a mirror up to society, believes Vinay Kumar. “From village plays to grand productions, theatre aims to bring the aesthetics of the world to the ...
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Vinay Kumar believes that the primary objective of theatre is to reflect society. He emphasizes the importance of theatre in presenting the world's aesthetics to audiences, addressing pertinent issues such as gender, politics, and social concepts. Vinay discusses his play Urmila, which explores power dynamics in the relationship between Urmila and Lakshmana from the Ramayana, touching on themes of consent, agency, and relevance in contemporary society. As the managing trustee of Adishakti near Auroville, Vinay stresses the need for dedicated theatre spaces in India to promote creative work effectively. He highlights the lack of suitable venues for theatre performances, expressing the importance of aesthetically pleasing and comfortable spaces for showcasing theatrical productions.Fulfilling the specific requirements of theater productions is crucial for the growth of this art form. Although cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have made advancements in this area, the real challenge lies in establishing a nationwide network of such spaces. According to the speaker, creating a platform for radical ideas within theater spaces is essential. These spaces serve as hubs for people to gather, exchange ideas, and nurture their creative pursuits. They are instrumental in fostering new talent, forming bands, sparking literary works, and inspiring filmmakers. Throughout history, iconic theaters have played a significant role in promoting intellectual exploration and innovative concepts. By offering a safe environment for individuals to challenge conventional norms, these spaces encourage artistic freedom and expression. The responsibility falls on theater practitioners to address the need for dedicated theater spaces, with governments urged to support such initiatives through cultural policies and resource allocation. Encouraging a broader audience to appreciate theater is critical for its survival in today's society. It is necessary to introduce people from all backgrounds to various art forms, fostering an environment where different artistic expressions can coexist harmoniously. One such example is the play "Urmila," which offers a fresh perspective on traditional narratives. The story revolves around a simple yet impactful statement by Lakshmana, prompting a deeper examination of power dynamics, individual agency, and self-determination. Urmila's defiance against societal expectations and assertion of her autonomy challenges the status quo. Adishakti Theatre is set to stage "Urmila," continuing the tradition of innovative and thought-provoking theater productions.Ranga Shankara in Bengaluru will host events on September 20 and September 21.