What makes Kolkata's theatre audience unique?

Kolkata's theatre audience is known for their empathy and ability to "live the play" with the actors, according to performers like Mallika Sarabhai and Lillete Dubey.

What is the future of theatre in Kolkata?

Mallika Sarabhai and Sohini Sengupta are optimistic about the future, noting a growing hunger among young, politically aware performers who are unafraid to transform the art form.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kolkata's Enduring Love for Theatre Shines Bright

Kolkata's Enduring Love for Theatre Shines Bright

Q: How are Kolkata's theatre curators reimagining the art form?

Curators like Richa Agarwal and Urvi Mittal are focusing on experimentation and contemporary storytelling to bring new perspectives to Kolkata's audiences.

9 Nov

•

Summary

Kolkata's deep emotional connection to theatre
Diverse range of productions set to captivate audiences
Young, politically aware performers driving theatre's evolution

Kolkata's Enduring Love for Theatre Shines Bright

As of November 9th, 2025, Kolkata's enduring passion for theatre remains undiminished. The city's stages have long been a platform for each generation to discover its voice, protest, and poetry, and the current theatre season promises to be no exception.

Veteran performers like Mallika Sarabhai and Lillete Dubey praise Kolkata's unique audience, who they say listen with empathy and "live the play" with the actors. Curators like Richa Agarwal and Urvi Mittal are reimagining the theatre experience, focusing on experimentation and contemporary storytelling to bring new perspectives to audiences.

The range of productions, from the introspective "Meanwhile Elsewhere" to the complex "Autobiography," reflect the human condition and provoke thought. Sohini Sengupta, who is curating the 42nd Nandikar National Theatre Festival, believes that Kolkata will always find its way back to theatre, as it is a fundamental part of the city's cultural identity.