Theatre and films are mediums that engage audiences on both intellectual and emotional levels. The Ministry of Education and Skills Development’s Black Box Theatre initiative has paved the way for aspiring artists to pursue their passion for acting. Since the first Black Box Theatre in January, several participants have been able to act in Bhutanese feature films.
The Black Box Theatre initiative has served as a launch platform for aspiring artists.
So far, ten participants of the Black Box Theatre initiative have been selected as casts in Bhutanese feature films.
Dawa Tshering, who was among the first participants of the Black Box Theatre initiative in January, acted in a recent movie, which has completed production.
Dawa has high hopes for his acting career. He says the Black Box Theatre has given him a platform to pursue a career in acting. He now trains the participants of the course.
“Even if we have the skills, we do not have a platform to showcase those skills. This is one of the challenges we face as theatre performers. Since I have just started my acting career, I am a little hesitant. With time, I would like to work towards reaching international levels as well.”
The Black Box Theatre trains young people between the ages of 19 to 25 in creative storytelling.
The Black Box Theatre hopes to start its own production house to advance the art of acting and theatre in the country.
“I studied but my true interest is in acting. The Ministry of Education and Skills Development has created the Black Box Theatre which provides us with a platform to showcase our talent and interests,” said Tshering Penjor, a trainee.
Sonam Rinzin, who only produced documentaries so far, is now working on his first feature film.
Sonam believes that films are powerful mediums to deliver messages to the society. He intends to highlight youth issues of modern society with his film.
Sonam has worked as a cinematographer and a documentary filmmaker with international film agencies.
“I cast young people since they need a platform to showcase their potential instead of those who are already popular. Regardless of less exposure in the film industry, young people have talent. The charm of theatre is to convey messages through acting, which stays with them longer.”
Charmi Chheda has been working in Bhutan for ten years. As instructor of the first Black Box Theatre, she has featured participants from the theatre in her feature films.
“Black Box can give a platform for different kind of performances, from realistic, monologue, solo performances to experimental. So, it has a different kind of nature, but I think it is a highly artistic and creative space.”
Theatre and film reflect societal issues and promote social changes.
They have the power to entertain, and educate, making them valuable forms of communication and artistic expression.
Tshering Deki
Edited by Sherub Dorji
