Bangladeshi mime artistes stun audiences at festival in Morocco

The 35th Theater Festival, currently underway at Hassan II University in Casablanca, Morocco, witnessed an amazing display of mime artistry by Bangladeshi artistes. Artistes from France, Germany, Italy, Morocco, Tunisia, and Saudi Arabia also came together to showcase their talents at this international event.

The Bangladeshi production, a 40-minute masterpiece, presented four thought-provoking sketches - "Oshikriti", "Chair: The Sign of Power", "Valobasha", and "Athopor, Subodh Palabe Na Ar". Collaborating with the Institute of Mime and Movement, an academic platform for mime action and puppetry, the production addressed the social and political realities of the present world.

Each sketch delved into significant themes. The first play exposed the dark chapter of violence against women, highlighting issues of murder, rape, and brutality. The second focused on the symbolism of a chair, representing power and authority. The third delved into modern love and its complexities. Lastly, the production tackled the controversial 'Subodh' character of Bangladesh, portraying the character with a modern mime twist using props and sets.

Written and directed by Mir Lokman and Shahriar Shaon, the production featured stellar performances by Moushumi Mou, Sohan, Shahriar Shaon, and Mir Lokman. The mime performance earned praise and appreciation from participants of the 35th International University Theater Festival, which commenced on July 24 and will conclude on July 29.

The Dhaka University Mime Action (DUMA) was established on February 27, 2011, under the visionary leadership of Mir Lokman, with the motto "Na Bola Kothagula Hok Bola". Since its inception, DUMA has participated in over 700 exhibitions both at home and abroad, spreading the essence of mime art to diverse audiences.