Aranyak Natyadal, a prominent Bangladeshi theater group, canceled its scheduled play ‘Company’ at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) following an attack during a protest by theater activists in Dhaka on Friday. The incident occurred at the National Theatre Hall, where theater activists had gathered to oppose recent restrictions on theater productions imposed by BSA. During the event, unidentified individuals threw eggs at the stage while Mamunur Rashid, a renowned playwright and director, was delivering a speech. The attackers fled quickly, escaping capture by activists.
In response, Aranyak Natyadal decided to cancel their 7:00 pm performance of Company, citing concerns over safety and security. Rashid, who also wrote and directed the play, confirmed the cancellation, emphasizing that it was a stand against the unwarranted incident. He expressed disappointment over the recent events, which he said posed a threat to creative expression.
Shamima Shawkat Lovely, the acting chief secretary of Aranyak Natyadal and an actress and director, highlighted the gravity of the situation. "For years, we have protested against injustice by performing plays; today, we are being compelled to protest by canceling a performance," she said, reflecting the frustration among theater activists.
The attack has sparked widespread concern within the theater community, with the Theater Federation condemning the incident as an attempt to stifle artistic expression. Activists have vowed to continue their efforts, underscoring the need for a safe space for creativity. The cancellation has drawn attention to the ongoing struggle over freedom of artistic expression in Bangladesh, as theater groups push back against restrictions that they see as limiting their ability to engage with audiences on pressing social issues.
