Vijayawada: Theatre comes to life after 8 months

Vijayawada: The first Parishad after eight months gap was organised by Dr Nandamuri Taraka Ramarao Kala Parishad, Tenali in memory of Polepeddy Narasimhamurthy and Tummala Venkatramaiah. It was held on December 23, 24 and 25. A total of six playlets were staged.

'Ratilo tema' playlet presented by Young Theatre Arts, Vijayawada grabbed many awards including best production, best actress, best villain, best direction, best makeup and a consolation prize. 'Akhari majili' staged by Sri Srungaravallabha Arts, Tirupati captured second best production along with best script and a consolation prize.

R Vasudeva Rao was adjudged as best director for 'Ratilo Tema' playlet and K Kasi was selected as best writer for the playlet 'Akhari majili'. The best actor award was received by Chedukuri Sambasiva Rao for his performance in the playlet 'Mahrishi', presented by Ushodaya Kalaniketan, Katrapadu. Surabhi Prabhavathi was selected as best actress for her performance in the play 'Ratilo tema', best character actor award was given to B Umamaheswari for her performance in the playlet 'Palarathi Samadhi'. V Satyanarayana was selected for best villain award in the playlet 'Ratilo Tema'. Best comedian award was captured by A Haribabu for his acting talent in the playlet 'Poyoyi Anukoni Atidhi'. Best music and best set design awards were given to 'Reite Raaju' playlet performed by Gurumitra Kala Samithi, Repalle.

During the Parishad, Alaparthi Venkata Subbarao, recipient of Kendra Sahitya Akademi award was felicitated with Tummala Venkatramaiah memorial award. MP Kanneswara Rao, GS Prasada Reddy and G Vijay were in the jury panel.

Significantly, almost all Telugu drama competitions scheduled since April have been cancelled due to Covid-19. Due to the cancellation of Nataka Parishads this year about 50 new playlets and about 25 running playlets lost chance to perform. Many artistes have suffered a lot during this period.

However, with the organisation of the parishads, drama will certainly get new lease of life and it is good sign of revival and normalcy is limping back to life in the city.