Shadhona’s acclaimed production “Mayar Khela,” based on Tagore’s dance drama of the same title, will be staged this evening at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
Shadhona, which is famed for introducing foreign dance genres in their productions, has followed the form of the western opera in the experimental production.
Tagore’s “Mayar Khela” or ‘The Play of Illusions’ delivers the message of the true beauty of unconditional love.
The central characters of the dance drama are Amar and Shanta. Seized by wanderlust, Amar sets off from his home to explore what the external world has to offer.
During the course of his adventurous journey, Amar falls in love with beautiful Pramada. Here, the story reaches another height of suspense.
The dance drama is jointly choreographed by Amit Chowdhury and Sabbir Ahmed Biju. The performance’s allure lies in the Maya Kumaris (maidens of illusion) who appear in very colourful attire and vivid makeup. Their aerial dance was extremely well-received by the audience at previous showings of “Mayar Khela.”
The production features popular Tagore songs such as “Amaro Porano Jaha Chay,” “De Lo Sakhi De,” “Ami Jene Shune Bish Korechhi Pan,” “Dibasho Rajani Ami Jeno Kar” and “Era Sukher Lagi Chahe Prem” fusing eastern and western musical arrangements.
Reaz Mahmud is credited with the light designing while Lubna Marium and Ali Ahmed Mukul jointy designed costumes and set.