EFFECT OF PANDEMIC COVID-19 ON THEATRE ARTS

Abstract

This  study aims at highlighting the constraints  in  Theatre Arts industry during the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic which happens to be unprecedented due to the imposition of nationwide lockdown norms since 2020. Theatre arts is considered to be a form of performing arts where creativity develops through participatory approach and communication before live audiences. This study first analyses the importance of live theatre performance, capacity building with teamwork, its evolution through human history, and mass participation in the development discourse. It then incorporates the existing challenges with the fact of social distancing norms, financial crisis, physical health issues, other related mental health issues, and so on and so forth caused by the Pandemic. Theatre might not bring complete change but transformation can be expected in this global south nation. Hence with the help of thespians, dramatists, playwrights and directors (theatre practitioners) the present condition of this sector could be examined where the majority of theatrical workers, whose livelihood depends on this sector, are in an impoverished state due to  unemployment and are expecting its revival soon. People had the fear of starvation and failure, more than the infectious Corona virus. The crisis caused the ultimate breakdown of the industry. Lockdown restrictions had a strong impact on psycho-social problems of theatre personnel. The study was conducted in the metropolitan city of Kolkata, West Bengal, and it helped to acquire insights into artistic engagements in Bengali Theatre. It consists of a qualitative method of research study. The interviews helped to attain an in-depth understanding of this topic and developed the mitigation strategy for one of the low prioritized sectors in contemporary society.