Kannada theatre history spreads over a century now. When talk about theatre in the state, Gubbi Theatre is the first that comes to mind. Started by Gubbi Veeranna in the late 19th century, famous personalities like Dr Rajkumar, B V Karanth, Varadachar and G V Iyer had associated themselves with it.

Then the Amateur Dramatic Association (ADA) was formed in early 20th century. This theatre is particularly known for popularizing contemporary theatre unlike traditional forms. It is said that even Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore attended their performances.

The main theatre members who are now accorded legacy status are T P Kailasam and Sriranga. This legacy status has been carried forward by groups like Ranga Sampadha, Voice, Samudaya and Abhinaya Taranga. Rangayana, the Karnataka government's theatre repertory in Mysore and Ninasam in Shimoga are other major centres that promote theatre in Karnataka.

Seventies can be rightfully said as the renaissance phase for Karnataka's theatre scene. A lot many theatre artists were born and plays based on Greek tragedies became a common act.

English theatre pulled the huge cosmopolitan crowd in the city. All big and small scale theatre flourished keeping the artists at the helm of activities.

Playwrights like Girish Karnad and Mahesh Dattani have been a constant source of original scripts to keep the theatre wheel moving.

Another major facet of the theatre scene in past few years has been Ranga Shankara. Founded by Arundhati Nag and late actor Shankar Nag, this theatre facility has given that shine to the fabric of culture in the city. It has been hosting performances both from far abroad and back home. Ranga Shankara has been holding dance, music and folk art festivals. Workshops on acting, writing, lighting, sound and mime and theatre appreciation are all conducted here. Art and theatre aficionados can enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing through the bookstore and art gallery.

Black Coffee

Tel - 2553 4021
Email- blackcoffee@ rediffmail.com
The founder of Black Coffee, Preetam Koilpillai is not only known for his theatre work but also has contributed in music field greatly. To name a few known productions include Martin Sherman's Bent, Irvine Welsh's Filth, Bill Manhoff's The Owl and the Pussycat, Edward Albee's Zoo Story and Yasmin Reza's Art. The theatre has been experimenting with original and unstaged scripts for theatre lovers.

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