Curriculum-based theatre programme launched in Panchagarh

A curriculum-based theatre programme has been launched for primary school students in remote areas of Tentulia upazila in Panchagarh.

Deputy Commissioner Shukria Parvin inaugurated the programme at the Sarialjot Government Primary School premises on Monday. The initiative is being implemented by Pran Prakriti Environment and Karigar, a cultural organization, with support from the district administration.

Under the programme, students will turn stories and subjects from their school curriculum into plays and perform them at their schools. Before joining the programme, the students received seven days of theatre training. A theatre club comprising 25 students from five classes has been formed at the school. Through curriculum-based plays, the students will receive training in pronunciation, public speaking, acting, storytelling, music, physical exercise, meditation, nutrition, environmental awareness and positive behaviour.

On the opening day, the theatre club staged Banshiwala, directed by Sarkar Haider. Mostaq Ahmed, project director of the initiative, said children in remote areas often have limited opportunities to engage in cultural activities. “Students will learn and enjoy different cultural activities through their curriculum, while their guardians and local residents will also have the opportunity to watch the performances,” he said.

The pilot programme will be implemented in 10 schools in Tentulia upazila. A theatre festival featuring performances by the participating schools will be organised later, organisers said. Deputy Commissioner Shukria Parvin said theatre is a composite art that involves acting, speech, appearance, discipline and other skills.