Theatre of resistance a study of the selected works of Tripurari Sharma

Abstract

An intrinsic function of theatre lies in its endeavour of socio-political activism and bringing change for the betterment of society. Resisting against established conventions and prejudices inherent in society makes theatre an effective medium of social change and means of communication for the mobilisation of the masses. In this context, the present research analyses the representation of women in the contestation of stage, space and status. The study highlights that women s question began to find newlineits place in the works of women theatre practitioners who incorporated tabooed issues and autonomy of expression in their theatre which focused on lived experience in contrast with the works of the male counterparts. The thesis contextualises this notion through a study of the selected plays of playwright-director Tripurari Sharma to present women as the speaking subjected to provide authencity to women s concern. The central concern of the thesis is how her plays attempt to dismantle social codes and highlight theatre as the site of socal resistance. Sharma s dramaturgy in the context of womens theatre also brings to light the question of omission of women playwrights and performers from the traditional marratives and theatre histories. newline newline