Shaiful Islam (b. 1965): Conceptual and Visual Narratives
As a key member of theater group Prachyanat, Shaiful Islam is renowned for his conceptual approach to stage design. His work seamlessly integrates symbolism, minimalism, and bold use of space, creating environments that enhance the narrative and deepen the emotional impact of performances. Islam’s designs frequently emphasize the interaction between actors and their surroundings, transforming static stage elements into active participants in the drama. This synergy between design and performance reflects Prachyanat’s experimental ethos.
In productions such as Koinna (2001), a play exploring themes of identity and displacement, and Raja Ebong Onnanno (2008), which delves into socio-political issues—Islam blends modernist and traditional elements, often utilizing indigenous materials and forms. His recent works, Agunjatra (2022) and Achalayatan (2023), further showcase his ability to merge modernist concepts with traditional aesthetics, creating immersive environments that resonate with Bangladesh audiences, who have rich cultural experience. Islam’s aesthetic merges the intellectual with the visceral, offering a multi-layered experience that enriches the storytelling.
Play: Circus Circus
Playwright: Azad Abul Kalam
Direction: Azad Abul Kalam
Set & Light Design:
Production: Prachyanat
Year: 1998
Photo Credit: Mumit M.
Play: Koinna
Playwright: Murad Khan
Direction: Azad Abul Kalam
Set & Light Design: Shaiful Islam
Production: Prachyanat
Year: 2001
Photo Credit: Afzol Tuhel
Play: Gondar (Rhinoceros)
Playwright: Eugene Ionesco
Direction: Kazi Toufikul Islam
Set & Light Design: Shaiful Islam
Production: Prachyanat
Year: 2003
Photo Credit: Mumit M.
Play: Agunjatra
Playwright: Mahesh Dattani
Direction: Azad Abul Kalam
Set & Light Design: Shaiful Islam
Production: Prachyanat
Year: 2022
Photo Credit: Prachyanat
Play: Achalayatan
Playwright: Rabindranath Tagore
Direction: Azad Abul Kalam
Set & Light Design: Shaiful Islam
Production: Prachyanat
Year: 2023
Photo Credit: Prachyanat