Singapore is set to experience a milestone in cultural exchange as India’s National School of Drama (NSD) makes its debut in the city-state this month.
The Indian Theatre Festival, organised by the High Commission of India (HCI) in Singapore, will run from Aug 28 to 30 at the historic Capitol Theatre, marking the first time NSD’s renowned Repertory Company will perform here.
This three-day event celebrates 60 years of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore as well as the 60th anniversary of NSD’s Repertory Company.
The festival will present three critically acclaimed Hindi plays, each a unique reflection of Indian theatre’s breadth and depth:
Abhigyanasakuntalam – Kalidasa’s timeless Sanskrit classic, retold with poetic elegance and emotional resonance.
Babuji – A powerful social drama delving into themes of humanity, dignity, and justice.
Tajmahal ka Tender – A sharp, satirical comedy imagining the challenges Mughal emperor Shah Jahan would face if building the Taj Mahal in modern-day India under bureaucratic tender processes.
To ensure accessibility for all, each play will feature English subtitles on separate screens, allowing non-Hindi speakers to fully enjoy the performances without compromising their authenticity.
Founded in 1959, the New Delhi-based NSD is India’s premier theatre institution under the Ministry of Culture. Its Repertory Company, established in 1964, has staged hundreds of productions ranging from ancient Sanskrit works and modern Indian classics to experimental and international theatre.
Many of India’s finest actors, directors, and playwrights have emerged from its ranks, and the troupe is celebrated worldwide for its artistry and professionalism.
HCI emphasised that the festival is more than a cultural showcase – it is also an educational journey, offering audiences a window into India’s heritage, social narratives, and humour through live performance.
Hosting the event at the Capitol Theatre adds prestige, with its art deco charm and modern technical facilities providing the perfect setting for NSD’s elaborate sets, costumes, and powerful stagecraft.
Tickets are now available at www.bukitnow.sg/get-tickets, offering theatre lovers and newcomers alike a rare chance to witness one of India’s most respected cultural institutions perform in Singapore.
