Theatre Workshop Launched in Assam with Gauhati University Support, Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Abinash Sarma Attends

The initiative aims to develop acting, dialogue delivery and stage management skills while encouraging creative expression and preserving Assam’s theatrical traditions.

Guwahati, November 3, 2026: Aspiring theatre practitioners in Assam have received a new opportunity to explore the performing arts through a specialised drama workshop launched on November 2, with the involvement of renowned theatre director and Sangeet Natak Akademi Award recipient Abinash Sarma.

The initiative has been undertaken by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, in collaboration with the Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, Gauhati University.

According to information shared by Gauhati University through its official social media account, the workshop has been designed to encourage creative talent, strengthen theatre education and promote the rich traditions of performing arts.

Workshop to Focus on Practical Theatre Skills

The programme seeks to provide participants with practical exposure to different aspects of theatrical performance and production.

Rather than concentrating exclusively on theoretical knowledge, the workshop will emphasise the development of skills required for effective stage presentation.

Participants will receive guidance in acting, dialogue delivery, stage management and other important components of theatre.

The training is intended to help participants gain a better understanding of dramatic expression, performance techniques and the coordination involved in theatrical productions.

Through practical learning, the initiative aims to encourage confidence, creativity and greater engagement with the performing arts.

Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Abinash Sarma Attends Inauguration

The inauguration was attended by distinguished Assamese theatre personality Abinash Sarma, whose contribution to theatre direction has received national recognition.

Sarma was selected for the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for 2019 in the category of Theatre Direction.

His association with the inaugural programme adds significance to the initiative, which seeks to connect theatre enthusiasts with the artistic knowledge and experience of established practitioners.

The workshop also reflects the importance of interaction between experienced theatre professionals and emerging talent in sustaining the development of performing arts.

Gauhati University’s Role in Promoting Performing Arts

Gauhati University’s Centre for Performing Arts and Culture plays an important role in encouraging academic study and practical engagement with different artistic disciplines.

The centre offers a Master of Arts programme in Performing Arts, with specialisations in Sattriya Dance and Theatre Studies and Acting.

It also provides academic opportunities designed to strengthen students’ understanding of performance traditions, acting and related cultural practices.

The collaboration with the Assam government’s Directorate of Cultural Affairs brings together institutional resources and cultural expertise to support theatre-related learning.

Such initiatives can help create opportunities for participants to explore creative expression while gaining exposure to established performance practices.

Strengthening Assam’s Theatre and Cultural Traditions

Assam has a rich history of theatrical expression, ranging from traditional forms such as Ankiya Naat and Bhaona to modern Assamese drama.

The state’s theatre movement has contributed significantly to its cultural identity, offering an important medium for storytelling, artistic expression and social commentary.

Workshops focused on acting and stagecraft can contribute to this tradition by encouraging new practitioners to develop their creative abilities.

By combining practical training with an appreciation of theatrical heritage, the programme aims to strengthen interest in theatre among participants.

The initiative also aligns with the broader objective of the Assam Cultural Affairs Department to support and promote artistic and cultural activities across the state.

Encouraging the Next Generation of Theatre Practitioners

The workshop represents another effort to strengthen the relationship between cultural institutions and the performing arts community.

Through its emphasis on acting, dialogue presentation and stage management, the programme is intended to help participants build a foundation in theatrical practice.

Gauhati University’s announcement highlights the importance of developing creative talent while supporting the continued growth of Assam’s performing arts traditions.

Further details regarding the workshop’s duration, total number of participants and closing programme have not been specified in the university’s announcement.