Mishal Shomapto Theatre has consistently played a pivotal role in elevating the cultural essence of nations, serving not only as a conduit for artistic expression but also as a powerful instrument within the realms of political and social movements across epochs. On the other hand, akin to other forms of social art, theater functions as a captivating entertainment medium. However, due to various reasons, the spontaneity of Theatre Studies in Bangladesh has been gradually dampened. Not everyone dares to build a career or higher education in the field outside of a traditional job or business. But many members of the current age are adamantly breaking this taboo. Without considering the opinion of society, many people are selecting this subject for their higher education and career. One such example is Mishal Shomapto, who has budged to the United States of America for a master's programme at Binghamton University, New York.
But the interesting thing is that Mishal's graduation was in a completely different subject. He completed graduate studies in Persian Language and Literature. On the face of it, such a shift is surprising. The other departments of the university are also a bit leery about studying in the dance, music, or drama department. Although there is a lot of study or hard work in other disciplines, it is not less typical to believe that theatre students pass with ease with no academic hard work.
On the other hand, the Persian Language and Literature is one of the oldest departments of the university. However, due to the lack of upgradation of curriculum and the lack of guidelines, many students do not understand how they can traditionally compile their studying with the demanded employment skills. Mishal says that he got admitted to this 'unconventional' subject only because of strong desire to study in the University of Dhaka. From the beginning, he tried to adapt to his department, but he could not settle his mind towards his graduation subject.
According to Mishal, most students studying Persian Language and Literature struggle to find career that align with their studies, leaving them frustrated. When Mishal could not make up his mind, he thought of devoting himself to the development field, as he was very interested in development activities. But later he realised that it was more convenient and enjoyable for him to join a familiar platform than cross the threshold of a completely different genre. However, finally, he chose theatre.
The extracurricular activities were Mishal's biggest support in this regard. During graduation, he was involved in the Dhaka University Mime Action Society and Dhaka University Cultural Society. He was a lively participant in stage plays and mime performances in various events. He finally chose the practice of this dopamine booster thing for higher education.
According to Mishal, while planning an adventure overseas, it is a good idea to get in touch with university instructors for things like admissions and research. There are hardly many schools that provide teaching assistantships, and the majority of master's and PhD students obtain support via research assistantships. The majority of the research funding held by academics pays for research assistantships. Once more, there are many places where the advisor must be determined before admission; in such cases, the instructors need to be contacted aggressively.
"You need to know what you want". If one's goal is to get funding for research assistantship, or to gain communication for research, one need to know that. "If admissions and funding are the objective, you need to find someone who has funding and is accepting new students. You need to do a little homework to sort this out," said Mishal. Many professors advertise on the website if they want to take new students or hire research assistants when they get new grants. The news of that grant is also published on the website of the departments. He says, "If you shortlist where you want to get admitted, you must check their website updates out regularly. "
While chewing the fat on the reason for choosing the USA as the destination for higher studies, we get to know that "The United States has been leading worldwide as the most coveted university location for students from all around the world during the past several years. Diversity is considered to be one of the distinguishing fundamentals of almost every institution in the United States. In the past, many higher education institutions have made a concerted effort to diversify their student body by emphasising different cultural backgrounds and expanding educational options."
To help international students’ transition to a US institution, he continues, "These universities offer a tonne of support to help them get ready for their studies. Through a range of seminars, practice courses, orientations, and other programmes, international students frequently receive sufficient aid to prepare them for their lessons."
Not every theatre major wants to be an actor. Some people prefer to work behind the scenes, creating sets and music for performances using their imagination. Lighting, directing, and costume design are other backstage jobs.
He adds, "These colleges provide a bucket of support to help overseas students get ready for their classes to make the transfer to a US university. International students often receive enough assistance to get them ready for their lessons through a variety of seminars, practice courses, orientations, and so on."
Participation in theatre classes and performances has been found to enhance students' self-esteem and academic confidence in addition to developing social and communication skills generally. Currently, performance studies are becoming popular in the west and throughout the world. An industry is emerging around theatre, acting, drama, etc. In Bangladesh, there is a need for a paradigm shift in the perception of unconventional studies, with a specific focus on performance arts. Students like Mishal, who bravely venture into the realm of theatre, should be applauded for their innovative pursuits and passion. Encouraging more students to follow suit requires a revisitation of curricula to incorporate and appreciate the value of unconventional fields. By doing so, the education system can better align with the evolving global landscape, fostering a generation of individuals who not only excel academically but also find fulfillment in their unconventional and creative pursuits.
Purbasha Prithvi studies development studies at the University of Dhaka.
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