23.03.2024 (Saturday) (1st Show)
ULPI
Mirror Theatre, Belpahar, Odisha
Subash Chandra Pradhan
Sambalpuri / Kosali
75 mins
THE DIRECTOR…..
Subash Chandra Pradhan, a luminary in Odisha’s theatrical landscape, boasts an illustrious 30-year journey as a theatre artist and director. The visionary founder-director of Mirror Theatre, Pradhan has scripted and directed over 50 full-length plays and 30 children’s plays, earning accolades for productions like “Dwitiya Gandhi, “Lal Paen “, Pachhen, Badkha Dada,” and the critically acclaimed “Ulpi.” Beyond the stage, Pradhan is a stalwart in theatre education, regularly conducting workshops for children and crafting theatre curricula for schools in Odisha. His directorial prowess extends to orchestrating 12 plays for the year-long drama festival 2021-2022 at Mirror Theatre’s own stage. Notably, Pradhan directed the groundbreaking “Kaenjuri,” a 48-hour nonstop Sambalpuri drama featuring 200 artists in 2023. His theatrical footprint extends globally, with performances at international festivals in Norway, Finland, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, and Denmark. Subash Chandra Pradhan stands as a beacon, blending artistic innovation with a commitment to theatre’s transformative power.
THE GROUP…..
Mirror Theatre was founded in 1993 in Jharsuguda, Odisha, Mirror Theatre stands as a prominent theatre research and promotion organization, leaving an indelible mark on Odisha’s social, cultural, and intellectual landscape. With a repertoire of over 300 performances, including 50 full-length & 30 children’s plays, the group actively contributes to various theatre festivals across India. Despite a COVID-induced hiatus, Mirror Theatre showcased resilience by initiating a “YEAR-LONG DRAMA FESTIVAL,” featuring diverse monthly performances from solo acts to collaborations. Highlighting their annual “RANGPARAB” festival, a cornerstone in their calendar, Mirror Theatre prides itself on state-of-the-art facilities encompassing an open-air stage, library, and Resource Centre. Actively engaging with the community through the Children’s Theatre Club and regular workshops, Mirror Theatre remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing cultural and intellectual enrichment. The anticipation for their upcoming 48 Hours nonstop Drama event in this year, featuring 200 actors, symbolizes their unwavering dedication to advancing theatre within the community.
THE PLAY…..
“Ulpi” unfolds against the backdrop of ancient mythology, drawing from the sacred Puranas that guide human culture and traditions. The play delves into the intricate tapestry of relationships among different clans, exploring the dynamics of friendship and enmity rooted in pride, land, and lineage. The narrative takes a poignant turn when the Pandavas, driven from their home, inadvertently disrupt the lives of the Nagas in the Khandab forest. This displacement sparks enmity, particularly between Princess Ulpi of the Nagas and Arjuna, Kunti’s son. As the drama unfolds, it weaves a tale of love amidst historical conflicts, revealing the transformative power of love to bridge divides and overcome deep-seated enmity. Set against the enduring landscape of Ulapgarh Hills, the play “Ulpi” explores the profound connection between the Naga princess and the middle Pandava, Arjuna, offering a timeless reflection on the complexities of human relationships.
DIRECTOR’S NOTE…..
“ULPI” is not just a theatrical rendition of the Mahabharata; it is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of love, reconciliation, and the transformative power of human connection. As we bring the timeless love story of Arjuna and Ulpi to the stage, we aim to transcend the boundaries of ancient epics and resonate with the pulse of today’s society. In this production, the narrative becomes a living testament to the possibility of turning enmity into friendship, mirroring the potential for positive change in our own lives. Beyond the confines of myth, “Ulpi” becomes a mirror reflecting the urgent need for a world free from the shackles of violence and war. May this play serve as a catalyst for introspection, inspiring our audience to embrace compassion, forge connections, and contribute to the creation of a more loving world. Through the lens of Arjuna and Ulpi’s love, let us collectively envision and work towards a brighter, harmonious future.
Cast…..
Sonia Behera
Kanha Bagar
Santosh Sahoo
Gourishankar Kumbhar
Sabita Das
Susanta Maharana
Paremeswar Marei, Anil Rana, Jitendra Pradhan Deepak Sah, Laba Pradhan, Bhabesh Pradhan, Babli Bej, Lizarani Makar, Archana Das & Rajshree Meher
Credits…..
