In an innovative event for inclusivity and creativity, Bangladesh proudly concludes the International Disability Art Festival 2024 on April 26 and April 27. The art festival held at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, the festival promises a diverse range of activities over two days, including theatre shows, film screenings, exhibitions, and seminars.
Organized by Dhaka Theatre and British Council, with support from Sundaram and the Institute of Informatics and Development (IID), the festival aims to provide a platform for artists with disabilities to showcase their talents and creativity. The event kicked off with an inauguration ceremony led by Valerie A Taylor, founder of the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), and attended by Social Welfare Minister Dr. Dipu Moni.
With ten distinguished theatre productions from Bangladesh and India, the festival aims to reflect the vibrant diversity and untapped potential within the disability community. Nasir Uddin Yousuff, founder of Dhaka Theatre, emphasized theatre's role in mirroring society and promoting inclusivity.
The festival serves as the culmination of the British Council's DARE (Disability Arts: Redefining Empowerment) project, reflecting a decade-long journey of fostering disability arts in Bangladesh and beyond. Matt Cannell, from the British High Commission in Bangladesh, highlighted the festival's role in bridging gaps between arts, disability, and society.
Shannon West, director of British Council Bangladesh, reiterated the organization's commitment to fostering equality, inclusion, and diversity through cultural exchange programs. Sayeed Ahmed of IID emphasized art as a powerful medium of expression, advocating for the recognition and opportunity of disabled artists.
Jenny Sealey, artistic director of Graeae Theatre Company, expressed pride in participating in the festival, emphasizing the courage and talent of disabled artists. The festival features panel discussions addressing disability representation in the arts sector and breaking barriers for accessible arts.
On the first day, guests enjoyed five theatre productions and a panel discussion, while the concluding day will feature the remaining theatre productions and two panel discussions on breaking barriers for accessible arts and funding inclusion for disability arts. The festival marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and equitable society, celebrating the creativity and talent of disabled artists.