On the occasion of Dr Enamul Haque’s 72nd birthday on May 29, a theatre festival has been organised by Nagarik Natyangan to honour the veteran theatre activist. The festival begins today at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
The event will open with the staging of “Shei Shob Dingulo,” a play based on the Liberation War. Written by Dr Enamul Huq, the play is directed by Haque’s wife Lucky Enam, who is also a seasoned theatre activist. The play highlights the contradiction of opinion amongst people when it comes to the Liberation War.
On the thespian’s birthday, Nagarik will stage “Pushi Biral O Ekjon Prokrito Manush,” a translated version of Arthur Miller’s “Pussy Cat and a Real Man.” Adapted by Proitee Huq, the play — written on the context of the Second World War — depicts different social problems including corruption, greed, dishonesty, and is relevant to the existing societal context.
On the concluding day, the festival will showcase Manik Bandopadhyaya’s “Pragoitihashik,” which is based on the ancient ethnicity of Bengal. The play has been adapted by theatre activist Mahmudul Islam Selim under the direction of Lucky Enam.
Dhaka Tribune had the opportuniy to catch up with Dr Enamul Haque and learn about his take on theatre, culture and the Liberation War.
“I have been involved with cultural activities as I consider it to be the way to understand one’s country and its people. We can reach the core of humanity, which was the true spirit of our Liberation, through cultural activities,” said Haque.
“Through our plays, we showcase our social realities and bring forward the possible solutions in overcoming the prevailing challenges. Also, we inspire the young generation to get involved in the art of theatre and be a responsible citizen,” he added.
An actor-director-playwright, Dr Enamul Haque won appreciation for his performance in stage plays such as “Acholayotan, Bishorjan,” “Dewan Gazir Kissa,” “Baki Itihash,” “Nurul Diner Sharajibon,” “Janotar Rangoshala,” “Shoroma” and others. Plays directed by him include “Chirokumar Shobha,” “Kholosh, Janotar Rangoshala” and “Amra Kobore Jabo Na.”