Children Theatre Festival kicks off

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 14: The 16th National Children Theatre Festival and Children Short Film Exhibition began at the Russian House in Kathmandu on Thursday.

Dinesh DC, Chairman of the Film Development Board, and Anton Maslov, director of the Russian House in Kathmandu, jointly inaugurated the festival.

Speaking at the programme, DC stressed the need to promote the theatre sector along with films. He also urged children to move forward and not delay in identifying their goals.

Likewise, Shailee Theatre Chairman and Festival Director Nawaraj Budhathoki said, “Children's short films are being screened to help children turn defeat into victory.”

 He said that although there have been challenges in promoting drama and theatre continuously for about 16 years, it has been promoted meaningfully.

Similarly, Russian House Kathmandu Director Anton Maslov said, “Theatre, stage and its combination will make a difference in the theatre sector, including children’s literature.” 

He further said that the Russian House has always been at the forefront of the cultural development and promotion of Nepal and Russia.

 He said that awareness and participation of new children, including the field of drama and theatre, will make a difference.

In the programme, the Children’s Literature Ratna Shantadas Smriti Samman 2081 was awarded to the late Janak Prasad Humagain.

 Budhathoki said that the festival, which would last for a week, will feature a total of 16 plays, including the plays of the organising organisation, as well as workshops and interactions. The festival will run until February 19.