Themes of freedom of speech and identity will be played out across theatre stages and other venues this autumn, as the council hosts A season of Bangla Drama from 4 to 27 November.
This year, the unique festival of British Bengali theatre, dance, music, and talks coincides with the 70th anniversary of the beginning of the Language Movement.
Lutfur Rahman, Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:
“We welcome the return of A Season of Bangla Drama which uses the powerful medium of theatre to celebrate Bangladeshi heritage in a creative and accessible way.”
This year’s theme is prevalent in productions which look back through history with topics including the Bengal famine of 1943-44; migration in the 70s and 80s; social injustice; and mental health.
The festival also includes a fringe programme of exhibitions, poetry, walks and much more.
Councillor Iqbal Hossain, Cabinet Member for Culture and Recreation, said:
“Covid has reminded us that there is no substitute for live performance and for physical connection. I hope that residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds venture out to some of the events on offer, many of which cross language barriers through the mediums of dance, music, and physical theatre.”
