Malayalam theatre has a rich tradition of experimentation, both in form and content, and among the prominent names in the field is Omcheri N.N. Pillai, whose plays were noted for their universality and diversity in themes.
Natyagruham, a theatre troupe in the city, is celebrating the 90th birthday of the playwright by organising a four-day festival of his plays, to be staged by amateur theatre groups from across the State.
Governor P. Sathasivam will inaugurate the Omcheri Theatre Festival at VJT Hall on Thursday in the presence of poet and Jnanpith laureate O.N.V. Kurup and renowned lighting expert S. Ramanujam.
Artistes and directors of Omcheri’s initial plays such as Roscott Krishna Pillai, S.R.K. Pillai, P. Narayana Kurup, and Sivan, among others, will be felicitated at the function.
Seven plays will be staged by theatre groups from Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Kollam. The play on the opening day, Ulakudaperumal , will be staged by Natyagruham. The other plays are Pralayam by Rangachethana, Thrissur; Daivam Veendum Thettidharikkunnu by Sraddha, Kozhikode; Sookshikkuka, Vazhiyil Bhakthanmaarund by Prakash Kalakendram, Kollam; and Thevarude Aana and Mindapoochakal by the Thiruvananthapuram-based Abhinaya and Nireeksha, apart from Nallavanaya Godse by Natyagruham.
The festival will also feature conferences and seminars on plays written by Omcheri.
Actor Madhu will inaugurate the closing ceremony on September 28.
