The Department of Theatre Arts, Sarojini Naidu School of Art and Communication, University of Hyderabad (UoH) performed the play ‘SIHARAN’ as a part of the Final Year Diploma Production on May 2nd, 2023, at Studio No. 2 in the department. SIHARAN demonstrated contemporary issues like “gender issues, religious tension in society, hate speech, sensationalism and misreporting by the media industries, and social stigma related to same-sex relationships” through the lives of the common person and labour class.
The play was directed by Priya, a final-year student, under the guidance of Kanhaiya Lal Kaithwas, Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre Arts, and enacted by the students from the department. Priya, who directed and also wrote the script of SIHARAN, describes her experience by saying, “As an artist, if you are failing to reflect the times, there is no meaning in being an artist.”
The students’ exceptional acting skills, combined with their creative use of lighting, sound, and props, brought to life the complex themes and emotions inherent in the play. The performance was engaging and informative, drawing the audience into the characters’ world and struggles.
What was particularly impressive about the play was the way in which it tackled complex issues with sensitivity and nuance without shying away from the hard truths. The students demonstrated a deep understanding of the complexities of contemporary issues and their impact on individuals and society.
While encouraging the artists and appreciating their work Rishikesh, a M.A. Communication student who watched the play, opined that “he thoroughly enjoyed the performances and that theatre has the power to educate, enlighten, and inspire change in society.”
The play’s enormous success was due to the collaborative efforts of the faculty members and students from The Department of Theatre Arts. Their collective dedication, hard work, and talent were evident in every aspect of the production, from the script development to the final performance.
Contributed by Raunak Kumar, M.A. Communication student, Department of Communication.
Photo Courtesy: Krishna Mohan, Raunak Kumar, M.A. Communication students, Department of Communication.