All About The 40th Edition Of Kolkata's Nandikar Theatre Festival

Everyone knows about that old trope, Kolkata and culture go together, perhaps more than any other city in India. It is a bibliophile's dream, with some of India's best independent and speciality bookstores. Kolkata is also known for its rich legacy of stunning heritage structures that are still standing. Then there are the iconic trams which are a symbol of the city's heritage. One of the oldest transport systems in Asia, trams have been operating since 1902 in Kolkata. This thread of culture is reflected and reiterated in the thriving theatre scene, be it contemporary experimental or leftist themes. The city hosts several theatre festivals throughout the year. Nandikar's National Theatre Festival is one of the most popular.

About The Festival

The first Nandikar's National Theatre Festival took place in 1984. It is held yearly in Kolkata, India in December. The festival features productions by leading and avant-garde theatre companies from India and, on occasion, from the United States, Sweden, Switzerland, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. In conjunction with the festival, exhibitions, and workshops are also organised. The 40th National Theatre Festival will be held from December 16 to 25, 2023 at the Academy of Fine Arts and Rabindra Sadan.

The Line-Up

The festival kicks off with Chetana’s Mareech Sanghbad by Arun Mukhopadhyay at the Academy of Fine Arts, Kolkata. Do not miss the inaugural programme at 5.45 PM. There will also be a felicitation and exhibition on theatre stalwart Rudraprasad Sengupta. Utpal Dutt was known for his plays and Chakdaha Natyajan will showcase one of his plays, "Barricade." Another one to look forward to is Manush by Nandikar with direction by Sohini Sengupta. Check here for the full schedule.

Children's Theatre On Christmas Day

Ring in Christmas with a dose of cultural fun for the kids. The festival will host an array of plays, from Alice in Wonderland to Lakshmaner Shaktishel, and Podipisir Bormibaksho based on Leela Majumdar's iconic book.

Nandikar Natya Mela also provides an opportunity for theatre enthusiasts to see shows from all around the country. Among the plays by other troupes are Kharu ka Khara Qissa by Backstage from Allahabad and Hunkaro by Ujaagar Dramatic Association from Jaipur are other attractions.

The Information

Venue: Academy of Fine Arts

Dates and Timing: From December 16 to 25, 2023; 1pm-7pm

To Note: You have to show a copy (either electronic or printed) of the booked ticket at the ticket counter of Academy of Fine Arts on the day of the show to get your regular ticket. They start delivering the tickets two hours prior to the show's start time. Tickets once booked cannot be cancelled/altered.

Book your tickets here.