A play begins as words on a page, but the drama in the text comes alive only when it is brought to the stage – interpreted by creatives at play. How does a script transform into a compelling stage performance? What lies beneath the surface of dramatic texts? Get answers to these questions and more as Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Sunil Shanbag shares his expert insights. 

How well the text is realised by actors depends on their understanding of the text, its context, visible and hidden layers of meaning, rhythms, subtext, structure, and – perhaps most importantly – what it means to the person who visualises it and brings it to life. ‘Text as Drama’ is an immersive workshop that explores the intricate relationship between text and performance, offering actors and directors the tools to unearth meaning and refine their craft.  

Led by Sunil Shanbag – one of India’s foremost theatre directors – the workshop uses a contemporary classic play as the working text, guiding participants through exercises that deepen their understanding of structure, context, and personal interpretation. With a career spanning over four decades, Shanbag’s work has shaped Indian theatre, bringing complex narratives to life on both traditional and alternative stages. As the artistic director of Theatre Arpana and Tamaasha Theatre, his productions have been showcased at major festivals and international platforms, including Shakespeare’s Globe in London. 

This three-day workshop goes beyond simply reading a script – it’s about exploring the dynamic relationship between the written word and its on-stage expression, providing artists with the techniques to make every word resonate. Come learn from one of the field’s finest!