Audience in theatre festivals thinning

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Mar. 22: Theatre artist Sarita Giri has said that working as an artist in theatre and films offers different experiences. 

Speaking at the ongoing discussion titled ‘Theatre or the Silver Screen’ during the 8th Nepal International Film Festival on Friday, she said that with the thinning audience in both theatre and film festivals, she started feeling that these events are being held for no one.

In the programme moderated by journalist Sukreet Nepal, Giri highlighted that even when such festivals are scheduled separately, there is still a lack of audience.

Theatre artist Pramod Agrahari compared the transition from theatre to the screen to building a strong foundation for a house. 

He said that the current situation arises when one does not know who they are and what they are doing. He added, “Theatre is essential. Money is also a factor. Criticism is a part of it. Within a limited time, someone can become an artist, but it is a tremendous task.”

Actor Buddhi Tamang expressed that theatre artists face different circumstances when transitioning to the big screen.  He further added that theatre is the stepping stone to cinema and that the experience of acting on stage and screen is distinct.

Theatre artist Sirjana Adhikari said that in theatre, the director guides the actors, but after that, the actors must handle everything themselves.

 In contrast, in cinema, there are numerous assistants, handling the filmmaking process. 

She further added “There are more writers, and since most of them are men, this has shaped the current scenario. In films, characters are crucial, but there is little effort to sustain them.”

There is no such thing as a small or big character and theatre has a significant presence, she added. 

“I have genuinely built my career and financial stability through theatre. I do not believe that theatre lacks financial opportunities.”