Paulo Coelho’s globally acclaimed novel The Alchemist is set to come alive on the Dhaka stage. The metaphorical story follows a young man’s journey from Andalusia to the pyramids of Egypt in search of self-discovery, dreams and destiny.
Theatre group Actomania is bringing the story to the stage under the title The Alchemist: Shubornosrshota. Mahfuz Islam Megh has adapted the novel for the stage, while Talha Zubayer is directing the production. It marks Actomania’s fourth production.
The central philosophy of The Alchemist is that when people truly desire something, the universe seems to help them achieve their dreams. The production explores this universal idea through a story of purpose, self-discovery and the search for one’s true path.
Talha Zubayer, head and director of Actomania, said people today are so caught up in the rat race of professional life that they often forget what they truly wanted to do.
“The Alchemist reminds us that every person has a particular purpose in life and that we are born to achieve it. This production is about rediscovering our inner drive and dreams. It will encourage audiences to dream again and inspire them to begin a spiritual journey,” he said.
The opening show will take place at 7pm on 17 September at the Experimental Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The second show will be held at 4pm on 18 September, followed by the third at 7pm the same day.
The production features Shashank Saha, Kamruzzaman Tapu, Sayem Sizan, Salauddin Evan, Kamrul Tihan, Fatema Elma, Sayera Akter, Mahbuba Mou, Sanbi Mir, Joybrata Biswas, Mahfuz Islam Megh, Moinul Bappi, Barish-Dhara, Sakib Shubho, Oishi Roy, Dibakar Jitu, Sad, Rihad Islam, Arian, Suluiha Tarzia, Rudra and Johnny.
