IMPHAL, March 6: Stressing the need for making collective efforts to preserve and promote the State theatre, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh informed that measures are being taken up by the government to set up Culture University and formulate culture policy to further develop the rich art and culture of the State.
He was inaugurating a seven-day long National Theatre Festival being organized jointly by National School of Drama, New Delhi; Art & Culture Department and Chorus Repertory Theatre at the Cine Play House of Chorus Prefecture, Kangchup Road in Imphal West today.
Attending as chief guest at the inaugural function, the CM asserted that the government and private organizations should work together honestly to enrich the State art and culture.
He expressed that serving monetary demand to the people working in the film industry and assaulting them for not fulfilling demands is most unfortunate.
People engaging in films in the State do not receive handsome amount of money. Such actions will only lead the society to downgrade instead of taking forward, Ibobi said.
He called upon the people to protect culture, custom and tradition of the State and further popularize both in the national and international level.
Works Minister Dr Kh Ratankumar Singh; Commissioner (Art & Culture) K Radhakumar Singh and Director of Chorus Repertory Theatre Ratan Thiyam who is also the Chairperson of National School of Drama were present at the inaugural function as president and guests of honour respectively.
‘’Macbeth’’ play directed by Ratan Thiyam was showcased on the first day of the theatre festival.
It may be mentioned that several acclaimed plays directed by renowned theatre directors of the country will be showcased during the National Theatre Festival which is being held for the first time in the State.