The most significant event in the development of modern Kashmiri theatre was the construction of Tagore Hall in the heart of Srinagar. The Academy efficiently managed it, organizing festivals there as well as shows by independent groups. Since Tagore Hall's establishment in 1960, it became the centre of variegated cultural activities until it was partially destroyed in an explosion in 1990. The hall was equipped with modern technology, which made it possible to stage such memorable plays and operas as Dina Nath Nadim's Vitasta, Pushkar Bhan's Machami, Gyandev Agnihotri's Shuturmurg i.e. 'Ostrich', Pran Kishore's Gatireny i.e. 'Dancing Girl', Bansi Nirdosh's Bas akh tamah i.e. 'Just One Desire', Ghulam Rasool Santosh's Akanandun, Zubir Rizvi's Tipu Sultan, Moti Lai Kemmu's Tshay and Trunove, Mohammad Subhan Bhagat's Taqdir and various Pethirs, and Hari Krishan Kaul's Natuk keriv band. The Abhinava Theatre in Jammu was built in 1978. This is affiliated to the Academy and is now an important centre of theatrical performances. This well-furnished hall, accommodating 500 spectators, combines several new concepts of a functional theatre. |