Theatre is catching up in Hyderabad

After films, fashion industry and music, a new trend is fast catching up students -- theatre and drama.
Though Hyderabad is not known for theatre and drama culture, the core reason that is luring students towards this new arena, is the zeal to do ‘something different’. And many students observe that theatre provides them with a platform to express their views and share thoughts.
Hyderabadi youth has realised the importance to speak out and give something to the society. “Through theatre we promote our culture, traditions and other aspects. It is more about creating awareness on different issues and developments,” says Shaaz Mehmood, a law student, who leads Shoelace Dramatics, an organisation set up by a group of students.
Youngsters feel that rock band performances, fashion shows and movies fail to catch attention of all age groups. “Theatre plays can be fun-oriented, comical satires, serious shows and there is vast scope for experimentation,” observes Ambika Bhalerao, a final year mass communications student.
On adjusting to the academic schedule and examination preparations with theatre play rehearsal and discussions, Ambika says rehearsals are conducted after college hours and during holidays. Excepting for few theatre organisations like Father Ali Baig Foundation, Dramanon and Jeunesse, there are not many groups in twin cities that help students in developing their skills. But this is where workshops conducted by professionals come in handy and students make best use of such opportunities, explains Nidhi Dugar, a student and General Secretary of Shoelace Dramatics.
“The craze is definitely increasing among students. There was tremendous response to the auditions we conducted in September last and 10 students were short-listed from over 150 students,” says Nidhi. Students are not confining to participate in theatre plays but they are also organising shows to raise money for charity and support voluntary organisations. They say it’s indeed a new beginning.