Bangalore has always had a fan following and talent for theatre, owing to which we are able to enjoy many cultural hubs in the city. The various theatre arenas, old and new, stand testimony to the same, along with the variety of local, national and internal performances they have on display, throughout the calendar year. The best part – they are way more pocket friendly than a night out at the movies, while being just as engrossing! Here’s a list of the top theatre arenas to catch a play, this weekend:
Alliance Francaise de Bangalore
A part of one of the world’s most renowned French language centres, Alliance Francaise has been around since 1964! Besides offering several courses in music, literature, dance and drama, what the academy is best known for is the host of plays that bring excitement to their audiences, throughout the year. Some of the finest theatre personalities have performed on the stage of Alliance and their commitment to fostering and propagating the arts has largely shaped the culture of new-age Bangalore. Make an evening out of visiting the place as you’re sure to be taken in by the modern art that decorates the campus while finding an event or activity that will catch your fancy. End the evening with a quiet and relaxing meal at their quaint little café set amongst the greenery.
Where: 108, Thimmaiah Road, Opposite U.N.I. Building, Vasant Nagar
Contact: 080 4080 8181
Chowdaiah Memorial Hall
A timeless landmark of our city, this hall was built as a tribute to Thirmakudalu Chowdaiah, the famous violin maestro. Many of us may have fond memories of visiting the hall as school kids to watch some exciting performances, while being enthralled by the shape of the building (a 7-stringed violin). Needless to say, it will always be a part of the theatre and music culture of the city.
Where: 16th Cross,2nd Main Road, G.D. Park Extension, Malleswaram
Contact: 080 2344 5810
Ranga Shankara
World class facilities at affordable rates is what comes to your mind when you visit Ranga Shankara. It is no wonder that the space has captured the attention of top personalities in the nation. Their main aim to build & promote the culture of theatre is reflected in every aspect of their planning and offerings. Ranga Shankara offers the opportunity to watch top class plays at bare minimum prices or (many-a-times) free. Girish Karnad (celebrated Indian actor, film director, writer, playwright and Rhodes Scholar) is closely associated with the arena and has had some interesting productions at Ranga Shankara.
Where: No. 36/2, 8th Cross Road, JP Nagar, 2nd Phase
Contact: 080 2649 3982
Jagriti Theatre
The 200-seat theatre built around a full-thrust stage has hosted many plays from India and abroad. Besides the main stage, Jagriti offers 3 more stages for cosier interactions: The Rooftop – an open-to-sky space for 50 people, The Terrace – apt for an informal seating of 20 people and Lumbini – a terraced space for upto 80 people. Some of their recent in-house productions include Alice! in 2015 and Radio Jagriti & Us and Them in 2016.
Where: Jagriti Renaissance, Varthur Rd, Near Adarsh Palm Meadows, Ramagondanahalli, Whitefield
Contact: 080 4124 2879
Ravindra Kalakshetra
Built as an ode to Rabindranath Tagore on his 100th birthday celebration, the cultural hub has a seating capacity of 900 with advanced facilities and technologies for artists and audiences, alike. Mainly shadowing the history and traditions of South India, the arena has had many prominent theatre and film personalities like Umashree, Mukhyamantri Chandru, T. S. Nagabharana, Master Hirannaiah, C. R. Simha, T. N. Seetharam, and Prakash Rai among others, on its stage.
Where: Besides Town Hall, J.C. Road, Kumbaragundi, Jayachamaraja Wodeyar Road, Kumbaragundi, Sampangi Rama Nagar
Contact: 080 2224 1325