JOIN USTheatre has always been an intrinsic part of college life and theatre clubs have often proved to be a platform for many budding artistes.
Though its popularity might have slightly declined among the student community, there are many who actively pursue it.
Anurag, who is an active member of the theatre club in his college, says that they are quite passionate about theatre even today.
“I have been actively involved in theatre from the time I entered college. It is not just me. There are many like me who love theatre and manage to juggle between that and academics. Theatre has always been synonymous with passion and the ones who take it up truly want to be a part of it. We can’t expect everyone to be interested in it,” he details.
The active theatre scene in the City has also been very inspiring for youngsters and many of them have taken up theatre and joined drama clubs in their colleges. Some are even considering taking up a professional course in drama to enhance their skills.
Rashmi, a student, says that she is actively involved with the ‘Laasya Club’ in her college — BMS College for Women.
“I was not very interested in theatre but ever since I joined the club, I have started liking it and am even thinking of pursuing it in future. There has been a considerable increase in the number of students taking up theatre now. We have a large audience in college and regularly perform at the annual day functions and other cultural fests. I feel that everyone today wants to see something new and that is one of the main reasons why more students like to watch as well as be part of theatre,” she notes.Teachers say that students today take theatre very seriously and want to better themselves each time they are on stage.
Shwetha, a professor, says that college-based theatre clubs are quite active and come up with innovative ideas and concepts during college functions. “Some of the ideas that they come up with are extremely mature and thought-provoking. The plays are not always centered around a social theme and go on to show the culture of the country and sometimes, the State also.”
Some colleges tend to invest a lot of time and resources in theatre and contribute to the active theatre scene in the City.
Abhinaya, an inter-college theatre fest conducted by the students of Jain University-CMS, saw many teams from different colleges taking part.
Nithish, a student who is interested in theatre, says that the theatre clubs have helped students identify their talent. “Thanks to events like Abhinaya organised by college-based theatre clubs, we have got a platform to perform. These programmes are organised professionally, especially when it comes to costume, make-up and lighting, and help promote up-and-coming talent,” he sums up.