Bangladesh's theatre group Swapnadal staged their one-act play 'Helen Keller' in Melbourne, Australia, on Saturday. The play, based on the life, work, dreams, struggles, and philosophy of Helen Keller, was performed at Chandler Hall, hosted by the local Bangladeshi theatre group Renaissance Drama Society.
Written by Apurba Kumar Kundu and directed by Jahid Ripon, the play features a solo performance by Juena Shabnam. Swapnadal's director Jahid Ripon mentioned that the production has previously been performed in Japan and India, receiving praise, and has also been broadcast in six international virtual theatre festivals.
The Melbourne theatre festival's first phase included a special event honoring Kamruzzaman Balarka of Renaissance, who received the Australian state medal 'Medal of the Order of Australia 2026' for his contributions to arts and culture. Juena Shabnam expressed her pride in portraying such a significant figure, emphasizing the profound impact of Helen Keller's life story.
Additionally, during their Australia tour, Renaissance organized a workshop on 'Bengali Theatre Techniques' for Melbourne theatre workers, led by director Jahid Ripon. A special performance of the play is scheduled for June 28 at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Studio Theatre to commemorate Helen Keller's birth anniversary.
