A 'fearless' story

Dhaka Theatre, in association with British Council Dhaka, recently staged the story of a visually impaired girl, titled Fearless, at the Experimental Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. Scripted by Ruma Modok and directed by Samiun Jahan Dola, Fearless featured three physically challenged artistes.

The play began with Rini, played by Lovely Khatun, narrating happy memories from her childhood on a butterfly-themed stage. Her vibrant attitude harmonised with the theme of the stage. Lovely Khatun, a visually impaired artiste gave a marvelous performance as Rini. She maintained a bright smile throughout the story, until she was met with a brutal incident in her life.

In the dialogues, Rini kept mentioning blue, red and green amidst various different colours. When she lost her eyesight, it was heart-breaking for her as she was unable to see those colours anymore. However, she continued her journey with utmost bravery, fulfilling her dreams in life.

Hawa Akhter, a hearing-impaired artiste, played the role of Rini's mother, and other minor roles. She also narrated the story to the audience using sign language. Rini and Hawa were unable to see and hear each other respectively. Yet they had brilliant coordination on the stage. Rabbi, another differently abled artiste, played his part with equal dedication. He played the role of Rini's husband, who abandoned her, and other minor male roles.

Wasim Ahmed, who was behind the stage and light direction, choreographed the play as well. State Minister for Cultural Affairs, K M Khalid, attended the show and gave an encouraging speech at the end.