HYDERABAD: “Design and Direction in Theatre’, a day-long workshop by two Indian stage theatre directors MS Sathyu and Mohammad Ali Baig was organised by the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation (QABTF) at NASR School. The workshop was held as part of the foundation’s ‘Celebrating Theatre’ series of workshops and talks that brings to the city eminent names from the world of theatre. About 30 participants and theatre students various universities and attended the workshop, wherein the elements of theatre design were brought to focus. MS Sathyu, one of the prominent directors of theatre and cinema, known for ‘Garam Hawa’, ‘Rashomon’, ‘Caucasian Chalk Circle’ and other plays explained that, “Design is an important element in a play to turn a playright’s script into a memorable production.” He also added, “Such workshops are essential to identify talent in and encourage theatre.”
Mohammad Ali Baig, founder, QABTF said, “Theatre design is hardly taught as a subject in any theatre institute or drama school in our country, hence it was important that we acquaint participants with this crucial department.”
The later part of the day had director Sathyu sharing his experiences of Brechtian plays, which he pioneered. Drawing examples and illustrations from Oriental, European, Japanese as well as Chinese theatre , he showed the differing techniques being implemented. Agreeing with him, Baig stressed the need of understanding ‘Natya Shastra’ and Indian elements, to add an authentic flavour to plays.