The 1st Nagaland Theatre Festival powered by TaFMA in collaboration with Hill Theatre, Nagaland was held at the RCEMPA, Jotsoma from September 15 to 16.
On the opening day, the audience was enthralled by the stage adaptation of Sentilong Ozukum’s “The Case of Longti Village”. Directed by Bendang Walling, an alumnus of the National School of Drama, the play portrayed the ill effects of coal mining in the state driven by greed and corruption, leading to environmental degradation.
The play set in the fictitious village of Longti left the audience spellbound with its exceptional performances. Kilangtemsu Imsong, alumnus of NSD Tripura, served as the assistant director and the set was designed by Limanungdang, an awardee of NEZCC Young Talented Artist Award and V Uto Chishi, alumnus of the National School of Drama. Caroline Sangtam was the make-up artist while costumes were designed by Imchatsung and Anungla Zoe.
On the second day, a day-long theatre workshop was conducted with Bendang Walling, Uto Chishi, Kilangtemsu Imsong and Limanungdang as experts. The workshop was attended by 52 participants including students from Patkai Christian College, Sazolie College and Kohima College.
The festival was organized by TaFMA in collaboration with Hill Theatre which aimed at promoting theatre arts in the state. Both the play and workshop received an overwhelming response, marking a successful first edition of the Nagaland Theatre Festival. Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu was the host of the Theatre play while LC Sekhose was the co-ordinator of the festival.