Transforming Artists: Ajker Projonmo Theatre Group’s workshops cultivate theatre talents, writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

Ajker Projonmo Theatre Group, under the guidance of director Sayan Biswas, has established itself as a renowned platform for nurturing and creating theatre artists through their engaging and comprehensive theatre workshops. These workshops, akin to vibrant festivals, attract individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels, ranging from inexperienced newcomers to seasoned veterans. Participants eagerly await the opportunity to delve into the world of theatre, knowing that Sayan Biswas, a multi-talented individual with expertise in various creative domains, will infuse life into every aspect of the workshop.

Sayan Biswas, who not only serves as a sports journalist but also excels as a theatre actor, director, scriptwriter, and lead singer of a music band, approaches his workshops with unwavering passion and dedication. He never settles for a moment of complacency because his love for theatre drives him to continually explore and innovate. As the director of Ajker Projonmo Theatre Group, he aims to organize at least two workshops each year, providing a platform for new enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the art form.

The workshops are primarily conducted at the prestigious Silchar Sangeet Vidyalaya on Park Road in Silchar. This esteemed institution serves as a second home to both Sayan Biswas and the trainees, fostering an environment where participants come to believe that “life is theatre and theatre is life.” The immersive experience of the workshops not only imparts practical skills but also instills a profound understanding of the art of theatre.

Sayan Biswas, along with invited experts, shares a wealth of experience and knowledge with the participants, empowering them to pursue their own careers in theatre. He aspires to see his students flourish and embark on their individual journeys, armed with a strong foundation in theatre direction, acting, lighting, set design, and sound. For Sayan Biswas, theatre is not just a medium of expression; it is a way of life, and he imparts this philosophy to his students.

The workshop curriculum curated by Sayan Biswas encompasses both practical and theoretical aspects of theatre. Through a variety of small games and exercises, such as name games, number games, and command games, the participants improve their focus, concentration, hand-eye coordination, physical movements, fitness, eye contact, and vocal quality. Sayan Biswas firmly believes that a holistic understanding of theatre requires a balance between theory and practice. In the theory sessions, participants delve into concepts and theories related to communication, including various types of communication, as well as the barriers and noises that can hinder effective communication.

One of the highlights of the workshop is the exploration of the navarasa, a fundamental concept in Indian arts that refers to the aesthetic flavors evoked by visual, literary, or musical works. The trainees also delve into the four types of abhinay, or acting, which include angik (physical expression), vachik (verbal expression), satvik (emotional expression), and aharya (costume and makeup). Through these lessons, participants learn to express and embody diverse emotions, feelings, states of mind, body languages, and movements. Theoretical teachings remain an essential part of the workshop, and Sayan Biswas ensures regular sessions dedicated to theory.

However, the workshops go beyond theoretical knowledge. Trainees receive specialized training to overcome stage fright and develop confidence in their abilities. As the workshop progresses, participants gradually shed their inhibitions and embrace the spotlight. Sayan Biswas understands that fear and shyness have no place in the world of theatre, and he actively cultivates an environment that nurtures self-assurance and fearlessness.

With Sayan Biswas at the helm of Ajker Projonmo Theatre Group’s workshops, it is only a matter of time before a group of passionate theatre enthusiasts emerges, ready to make their mark. Although Sayan Biswas is irreplaceable, his true success lies in inspiring and equipping others to embark on their own creative journeys. His relentless pursuit of knowledge, learning, and growth ensures that the theatre community continues to flourish, creating a vibrant tapestry of diverse voices and talents.