ITV

Tag: Zee Theatre

  • NCPA & Zee Theatre partner to present Pratibimb Marathi Natya Utsav

    NCPA & Zee Theatre partner to present Pratibimb Marathi Natya Utsav

    Mumbai 2024: The National Centre for the Performing Arts’ Pratibimb Marathi Natya Utsav returns this summer. Co-powered by Zee Theatre, the three-day Marathi theatre festival (from the 17 to 19 May) encompasses a variety of vibrant activities such as poetry readings, venue tours, workshops and plays.

    The festival opens with the premiere of Patra Patri, a tongue-in-cheek epistolary play about changing times, featuring two stalwarts – Vijay Kenkre and Dilip Prabhavalkar. In stark contrast to this humorous offering is Kavi Jaato Tenvha, a musical play-reading on the poetic works of Manik Sitaram Godghate, known by his pen name Grace. The festival also offers two workshops; one on the fundamentals of acting by renowned actor Priyadarshan Jadhav and the other about stage design by noted art director Macchindra Shinde.

    NCPA head of theatre & films Bruce Guthrie shared, “The NCPA’s commitment to Marathi theatre and cultural groups is demonstrated through initiatives like Pratibimb. This festival aims to preserve and nurture Maharashtrian culture. It is a celebration and a collaboration between the NCPA and established and emerging artists, creating a vibrant space for artistic expression in the Marathi theatre community. The upcoming Pratibimb festival promises an enticing blend of mainstream and innovative performances. With no fewer than three premieres, it gives our audiences a chance to see the fantastic plays first at the NCPA. Alongside these, enriching readings, workshops, and tours will be held, all designed to provide a comprehensive experience of the vibrant world of Marathi theatre. This diverse lineup ensures there’s something for every theatre enthusiast eager to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Marathi theatre. We also offer greater access with many of the performances subtitled in English, so people who don’t speak Marathi can still experience the plays. We invite our audiences to join this celebration and immerse themselves in Pratibimb’s rich tapestry of experiences.”

    This year, Pratibimb also features two intriguing love stories. Playwright Irawati Karnik, renowned for delving into the complexities of human behavior and relationships, presents her highly acclaimed work, “Jar Tar Chi Goshta.”  Complementing this, Niranjan Pedanekar’s “Love is Hanikarak” offers a darker perspective on love.

    Emerging from the NCPA’s prestigious “Darpan” playwriting competition, “Golkonda Diamonds” by Yogeshwar Bendre explores the perennial struggle of individuals against the overwhelming forces of the system. Building on the success of last year’s winning play, “Kalgitura,” by Datta Patil, the festival also presents “Dagad aani Maati” that delves deeper into themes of provenance and identity.

    Witness these captivating stories unfold on stage and immerse yourself in this unique theatrical experience. Tickets are now available on BookMyShow.

  • Celebrate National Youth Day with five captivating youth-centric tales

    Celebrate National Youth Day with five captivating youth-centric tales

    Mumbai: On National Youth Day, also known as Vivekananda Jayanti (12 January), a United Nations report informs that half of the people on our planet are 30 or younger, and this figure is expected to reach 57 per cent by the end of 2030. This survey itself underscores why the concerns of the youth must be amplified in policy-making and also storytelling. This National Youth Day, watch stories that take you into the heart of the aspirations, challenges, dreams and hopes of the young.

    Sir Sir Sarla  (teleplay)

    This Zee Theatre teleplay is as much a coming-of-age tale about young love as about the clash between fantasy and reality. The story explores the feelings that Sarla, a naive student harbours for her professor. Though professor Palekar and she share an unspoken affinity for each other, the much older professor is unable to come to terms with his own feelings and steers Sarla towards a loveless marriage. The third angle of this story is his other student Phanidhar who admires the professor and resents him for the role he has played in his life by pushing Sarla away. Years later, when the three meet again, suppressed emotions bubble to the surface and Professor Palekar realises to what extent he has meddled with two young lives. Filmed by Suman Mukhopadhyay, this Makrand Deshpande teleplay stars him as the professor with Aahana Kumra,  Sanjay Dadhich  and Anjum Sharma.

    12th Fail (film)

    This biographical drama produced, written and directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra is like a huge dollop of inspiration for every young person who is struggling to break the cycle of poverty. Based on Anurag Pathak’s book about Manoj Kumar Sharma who overcame  countless setbacks to become an Indian Police Service officer, the film shows how a student from a marginalized section of society manages to succeed. The film stars Vikrant Massey in the title role, alongside Medha Shankar, Anant V Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Priyanshu Chatterjee. This true story of  grit and resilience revolves around not just Manoj  but an examination system that is loaded against students from poor backgrounds. That Manoj still manages to crack a tough competitive exam like UPSC shows that the young can achieve any dream if they do not give up.  

    Jawaan (film)

    This massy high-octane action thriller is also a wake up call for the youth as it exhorts them to be aware of ground realities and do something positive for the country. Its protagonist who was born in a jail is named ‘Azaad’ to denote the unconquerable nature of the human spirit. He grows into a man with a mission and brings the nation’s attention to its invisibilized citizens including debt ridden farmers, doctors in under-equipped hospitals among others. He also appeals to citizens to vote for the betterment of the country and its democracy. Much like ‘Rang De Basanti’, this film is a call for change and has struck a chord with the youth of the country.

    Directed by Atlee, the film stars Shah Rukh Khan in a double role with  Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi.

    Dhak Dhak (film)

    ‘Dhak Dhak’ is a film that feels like a breath of fresh air and is for the young and for the young at heart. Its two young protagonists are dealing with the prospect of a loveless arranged marriage and sexist trolling respectively. A middle-aged homemaker and a grandmother on the other hand are eager to free themselves from the weight of duties and expectations. As these four women from different age groups and social backgrounds ride their motorbikes from New Delhi to the highest mountain pass in the world in Ladakh, they get in touch with their authentic selves. This road movie with a difference shows that dreams can be dreamt and achieved at any age.  Directed by Tarun Dudeja and produced by Taapsee Pannu, it stars  Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanjana Sanghi.

    Dhumrapaan (Teleplay)

    Directed for stage by Akarsh Khurana and filmed by Adhaar Khurana, this Zee Theatre teleplay gives audiences an insight into the suppressed angst and frustrations of young people caught in the grind of a draining corporate career. They meet in the smoking area of their office and air their thoughts over  appraisals, interpersonal politics, relationships all the while dealing with their stress, fears and insecurities. The teleplay is a comedy about  rat race but also talks about mental health and the manner in which young people cope with the pressures in their professions. It stars Shubhrajyoti Barat, Akarsh Khurana, Sartak Kakkar, Taaruk Raina, Sidharth Kumar, Lisha Bajaj and Ghanshyam Lalsa.

  • Zee Theatre presents Manto’s ‘Mammad Bhai’ in ‘Koi Baat Chale’

    Zee Theatre presents Manto’s ‘Mammad Bhai’ in ‘Koi Baat Chale’

    Mumbai: Zee Theatre is all set to captivate audiences with the dramatic reading of Saadat Hasan Manto’s story ‘Mammad Bhai’. Directed by Seema Pahwa and narrated by Vineet Kumar, this story is part of the acclaimed literary anthology, ‘Koi Baat Chale.’  The story revolves around a mafioso of Arab Gully in Mumbai who couldn’t bear to part with his dagger or his moustache. When life forces him to give up both, how does he cope without the symbols that defined his identity? Watch the reading to discover the answer to that intriguing question.  It will be aired on 27 October 2023 on Airtel Theatre, Dish TV Rangmanch Active and D2H Rangmanch Active.
     

  • Enjoy the ultimate musical experience at home with &PrivéHD

    Enjoy the ultimate musical experience at home with &PrivéHD

    Mumbai: &PrivéHD is the home to nuanced cinema, bringing critically acclaimed films to Indian audiences. To take its offerings a notch higher, the channel had previously introduced Privé Theatre; a creative collaboration with Zee Theatre which has been mainstreaming premium theatrical content and teleplays to a worldwide audience since 2018. The synergistic aim was to keep the love for theatre alive amongst audiences, and now continuing the same legacy, the channel has announced Privé Musicals, another collaboration with Zee Theatre. Through the new property, the channel and Zee Theatre will co-present musical plays that are timeless classics and some even have been inspirations for blockbuster Hollywood films.

    Privé Musicals offer a form of entertainment that appeals to those seeking high-quality performances, refined storytelling, and a sophisticated theatre experience. It creates its relevance in the present time by incorporating contemporary themes, modern music styles, and relevant storylines. Musicals are a treat for those who enjoy music in all its forms. These include classics like ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Peter Pan Live!’, ‘Billy Elliot: The Musical’ and ‘Hairspray Live!’.

    Speaking about this new initiative, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd chief channel officer – English cluster Rishi Parekh shared, “Since its inception, we at &PrivéHD, have been committed to delivering differentiated and niche content to the TV-viewing audience and after introducing World Box Office and Privé Theatre, our next step in this direction is Privé Musicals. This new IP will host some of the most renowned musical plays on the channel, which must be on the bucket list of both music and theatre lovers. Musicals like ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Peter Pan Live!’, ‘Billy Elliot: The Musical’ and ‘Hairspray Live!’ are some evergreen classics that will be a part of our programming and our aim is to give viewers a chance to witness these masterpieces from the comfort of their homes.”

    ‘The Sound of Music’ is based on an original 1959 Broadway production which was inspired by Maria von Trapp’s, ‘The Story of the Trapp Family Singers.’  In 1965, came the iconic film starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. This version stars Grammy winner Carrie Underwood as Maria.

    ‘Peter Pan Live!’ is based on Scottish novelist and playwright J. M. Barrie’s story about a boy with a never-ending childhood. Academy award winner Christopher Walke plays Captain Hook while Critics’ Choice Award nominee Allison Williams stars as Peter Pan.

    ‘Hairspray Live’ was watched by over nine million viewers and went on to win three Emmy awards in 2016 and revolves around Tracy Turnblad, a small-town girl who becomes an overnight success after appearing on a TV dance show. The musical boasts a dream cast including marquee names like Ariana Grande and EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson.

    ‘Billy Elliot: The Musical,’ is an aspirational story set to Sir Elton John’s tunes. Set in a dreary English mining town, it traces the journey of a young boy who chooses ballet shoes over boxing gloves. It stars Elliot Hanna, Ruthie Henshall and Deka Walmsley.

    Privé Musicals resonate with the interests and sensibilities of all generations including the modern GenZs. This is a golden chance for all to enjoy the brilliance of world-renowned presentations, from the comfort of their homes, musicals that are certainly on every theatre lover’s bucket list.

    Stay tuned for more information on Privé Musicals.

  • Zee Theatre to celebrate dramatic feast of 30 plays in 30 days

    Zee Theatre to celebrate dramatic feast of 30 plays in 30 days

    Mumbai: Zee Theatre has announced an unprecedented theatrical extravaganza to provide dramatic riches to its audience on a daily basis. Har Din Naya Drama, a dramatic feast of 30 plays in 30 days, will entertain and engage viewers every day at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Tata Play Theatre.

    This is a celebration of the best of India’s vast and diverse theatre fraternity’s classic, contemporary, and boundary-breaking content. Under this campaign, viewers will be able to watch both old favourites and brand new, original plays in the “Blockbuster” and “Premiere” categories. The “Weekend Highlights” will feature stories that are themed or commemorate special occasions and festivals.

    This campaign will also be live on other platforms such as Airtel Theatre, Dish TV & D2H Rangmanch.

    Talking about “Har Din Naya Drama,” ZEEL Shailja Kejriwal chief creative officer of special projects said, “The idea of “30 Days, 30 Plays” stems from our commitment to offer audiences more of what they want and to give them more value for the time and resources they invest in Zee Theatre. We always strive to make the best of Indian theatre more accessible and to give audiences what they love by enriching and expanding our repertoire. We want to transform the concept of daily entertainment by bringing these masterpieces right into your living room, and we are proud that viewers will now be able to watch a specially selected teleplay everyday.”  

    The new teleplays in the “Premiere” category will add to the existing repertoire of over 90 teleplays, while popular stories such as Sir Sir Sarla and Chokher Bali will be screened in the blockbuster category.

    Over the years, Zee Theatre has collaborated with renowned theatre veterans such as Mahesh Dattani, Vijaya Mehta, Lillete Dubey, Atul Kumar, and young stalwarts such as Purva Naresh to recreate and bring to life some of the most celebrated stories across languages.

    Among the well-known actors in this vast library are Gajraj Rao, Mita Vashishth, Ashutosh Rana, Virendra Saxena, Vikram Gokhale, Mohan Agashe, Nandita Das, Mahira Khan, and Aahana Kumra.                                                                                                                               

  • Zee Theatre brings the endless magic, innocence and wonder of ‘Peter Pan Live!’ to India

    Zee Theatre brings the endless magic, innocence and wonder of ‘Peter Pan Live!’ to India

    Mumbai: Scottish novelist and playwright J. M.Barrie’s ‘Peter Pan’ is about a boy with eternal childhood who lives on a mythical island called Neverland. The narrative revolves around Peter’s quest to find stories that can entertain his co-inhabitants. Along the way, he faces many odds and blurs fantasy and reality to make us all realise that with imagination and courage, we can rewrite our destiny and defeat evil. This tale has lent itself to various adaptations across decades; from animation to live-action and theatrical interpretations at West End and Broadway. And now Zee Theatre brings to India, all the joy and magic of this tale via ‘Peter Pan Live!’ a production inspired by a 1954 Broadway musical. The delightful entertainer will be screened on 10th July on Tata Play Theatre at 2 pm & 8 pm

    ZEEL chief creative officer – special projects Shailja Kejriwal said, “There is a Peter Pan in all of us refusing to grow up. This story is a perfect respite from a world that tells us constantly to wise up, lose our naivety, and our sense of wonder. J.M. Barrie was a masterful storyteller and this version does full justice to the glorious world he created for all of us. I am sure that audiences of all ages will enjoy this family entertainer also for its rich musical score and much-loved songs like ‘Tender Shepherd,’ ‘Never Never Land,’ and ‘Distant Melody.’ Reality must be dealt with but Peter Pan reminds us to never stop dreaming, to hope and to rediscover our inner child.”

    In 1955, the Tony Award-winning musical attracted an audience of 65 million viewers and was then the highest-rated single television program in the history of television.  One major highlight of this current version is Christopher Walken, the winner of an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Walken plays Captain Hook with great flair while Critics’ Choice Award nominee Allison Williams stars as Peter Pan in this Rob Ashford and Glenn Weiss directorial.  

    The musical also stars Christian Borle, Kelli O’Hara, Alanna Saunders, Taylor Louderman, and Jake Lucas and will be screened on Tata Play Theatre.

  • Zee Theatre expands its content slate with four musical blockbusters

    Zee Theatre expands its content slate with four musical blockbusters

    Mumbai: Zee Theatre brings star-studded stage productions like “The Sound of Music”, “Hairspray Live!”, “Peter Pan Live!” and “Billy Elliot: The Musical” to the small screen. This is the first time that four international musical blockbusters can be seen on Indian television.

    A glorious month of star-studded, award-winning musicals will begin with “The Sound of Music Live!”, which will be aired at Tata Play Theatre on 29 May, followed by “Hairspray Live!”, “Peter Pan Live!” and “Billy Elliot: The Musical“. Over the years, these musicals have been adapted to stage and as well on the big and small screen with great success and Zee Theatre’s offerings have much to recommend them, including stunning production values, captivating performances and large helpings of nostalgia. With these treats, Zee Theatre has not only diversified its slate but will tap into new audiences who will discover for the first time, the energy and verve of immersive musicals.

    “The Sound of Music” revisits the much-loved musical score with Carry Underwood, the multiple Grammy and Academy of Country Music Awards winning sensation. Underwood stars as Maria along with Stephen Moyer, Audra McDonald, Christian Borle, and Laura Benanti. Directed by Beth McCarthy-Miller and Rob Ashford, this true story based on Maria Von Trapp’s memoir, ‘The Story of the Trapp Family Singers’ has been a resounding hit from the time its first Broadway production was unveiled in 1959. Thanks to its central love story, ageless music, and family-centric wholesomeness, the musical has become an eternal favourite. Its cinematic version was the highest-grossing film of 1965 and starred Oscar winner Christopher Plummer and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Julie Andrews.   

    Explaining why Zee Theatre is bringing these musicals to Indian television, ZEEL chief creative officer-special projects Shailja Kejriwal said, “Indian audiences are no stranger to musicals. Our cinema and theatrical traditions thrive on musicality and dance. Musicals are also a huge part of Broadway and West End and we have curated some that will resonate the most with Indian audiences. “The Sound of Music“, “Hairspray Live!”, “Peter Pan Live!” and “Billy Elliot: The Musical”  are genre-defining stories that span coming-of-age dilemmas, love, self-discovery, and a lot more enthralling generations worldwide. These productions have much to recommend them and we are thrilled to introduce them to families across India.”

  • Zee Theatre, Nine Rasa team up to showcase ‘Pashmina’

    Zee Theatre, Nine Rasa team up to showcase ‘Pashmina’

    Mumbai: Zee Theatre has collaborated with performing arts-focused OTT platform Nine Rasa to showcase Manish Chaudhary and Anamika Tiwari starrer “Pashmina”. Tata Sky Theatre will air the play on 26 September at 2 p.m and 8 p.m.

    “This collaboration between Zee Theatre and Nine Rãsã is an attempt to make nuanced stories accessible to audiences and to familiarise them with the power and poignance of good theatre,” said the statement.

    “Pashmina” follows the story of Amar and Vibha Saxena, who habitually visit a new place every summer. However, a holiday in Kashmir turns out to be an eventful trip down memory lane. Directed by Rasika Agashe, the play also stars Shaurya Shanker, Paramvir Singh, Manjeet Yadav and Yasir Iftikhar Khan.

    “Zee Theatre and Nine Rasa are aligned in the belief that theatre must reach people even if they can’t reach it. By bringing immersive theatrical experiences to the audience on their screens, we collaboratively aim to expand the reach of poignant stories like Pashmina,” said Zee Entertainment’s chief creative officer of special projects Shailja Kejriwal.

    “The idea of Nine Rasa was started keeping in mind that the plays, skits, storytelling are accessible to all and also help the theatre community,” said Nine Rasa founder and actor Shreyas Talpade. “Zee Theatre coming on board is a positive sign that Nine Rasa is heading in the right direction and this collaboration will surely help reach more people.”

  • Tata Sky Theatre to premiere iconic Marathi play ‘Natsamrat’

    Tata Sky Theatre to premiere iconic Marathi play ‘Natsamrat’

    MUMBAI: Tata Sky Theatre in partnership with Zee Theatre is all set to premiere the most gripping, unconventional play of Marathi ‘Natsamrat’ as tribute to the Late Dr. Shriram Lagoo, who played a leading role in the play written by Vishnu Vaman Shirwadkar.

    The joint venture between Tata Sky Theatre and Zee Theatre brings theatre enthusiasts a chance to watch the most celebrated and award-winning plays across genres from the comfort of their homes.

    The Marathi play features Mohan Joshi and Rohini Hattangadi in the lead role. It was first staged in 1970 and has seen many runs over the years with several theatre stalwarts in lead roles.

    ‘Natsamrat’ is a first Marathi play to be premiered on the channel that portrays the story of a veteran actor Ganpat Belwalkar, who must choose between a successful past and the realities of being a father to ungrateful children.

    The Marathi play ‘Natsamrat’ was also adapted into a film which received multiple accolades and has been well-received by the audience across the country.

    The iconic play Natsamrat could be watched every day until 4 January alternately at 12 pm and 7 pm on Tata Sky Theatre. It can also be viewed on the Tata Sky Mobile App under the Live TV section.

  • Theatre has a new stage with Tata Sky

    Theatre has a new stage with Tata Sky

    MUMBAI: Tata Sky, India’s leading content distribution platform announced Tata Sky Theatre- a 24-hour, first ever ad-free service that brings to its subscribers acclaimed plays and performances from the finest theatre groups on television. Powered by Zee Theatre, Tata Sky Theatre has launched over 100+ plays from across genres – Musicals, period drama, social satire, romantic comedy, crime drama, etc. in a cinematic format to the comfort of your home.

    The service primarily offers Plays in Hindi and English language. Complimenting the envious line-up of plays will be exclusive content relating to Backstage – behind the scenes, Theatre Talks – interviews with cast and crew, etc.

    Present at the launch, Pallavi Puri, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Sky said, “Tata Sky aims to bring unique and engaging content to our subscribers. Tata Sky Theatre brings rich & imaginative theatre to life on TV screens, which fits in very well with our legacy of innovative special service offerings. In association with a valuable partner Zee Theatre, Tata Sky Theatre will bring to your screens hand-picked plays & performances starring the finest theatre artists.”

    Renowned theatre artists such as Sonali Kulkarni, Amitosh Nagpal, Milind Pathak, Rajeshwari Sachdev, Reema Lagoo, Vikram Gokhale, Govind Namdev and many more will be seen enacting these televised plays. Some of the celebrated plays that you can catch on Tata Sky Theatre would be Vaastav, Wrong Turn, Doll’s House, Agnipankh, White Lily & Night Rider, Scavenger’s Daughter and many more. Tata Sky Theatre’s content library has something in it for everyone.

    Shailja Kejriwal, Chief Creative Officer – Special Projects, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, “Theatre has been the heart of India’s rich cultural heritage for decades now and has played an integral role in shaping our social identity. Committed to delivering extraordinary entertainment experiences, we aspire to revive, restore and spread this rich cultural heritage by bringing the best of Indian theatre for audiences to experience. With Tata Sky Theatre, we bring the purest form of entertainment by offering a variety of plays across genres, each being socially relevant to today’s evolved viewers.”