Atlanta, GA, USA: Atlanta’s lively Hindi theatre community witnessed an exciting event on September 29 and 30 at the Comfort Inn on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. The Dhoop Chaoon Hindi Theatre Group hosted a comprehensive two-day acting workshop, guided by the celebrated Bollywood and theatre actor Shishir Sharma. This event was organised in collaboration with the Atlanta Indian Film Festival and the Aligarh Alumni Association of Atlanta.

Exploring the Depths of Text and Character

On the opening day, the focus was on grasping the heart of acting—interpreting the text. Shishir Sharma emphasised the critical role text plays in an actor’s performance, a factor often overlooked amid the thrill of acting. Attendees engaged in discussions about the subtle challenges actors face and techniques for developing authentic characterisations. The workshop covered key areas such as: understanding subtext in scripts; harnessing imagination, observation, and improvisation; distinguishing between hearing and truly listening; and answering essential actor questions: Who am I? What am I? Where am I? Why am I here? What do I want? Why do I want it? These exercises offered practical insights, combining theory with interactive activities that stimulated creativity and reflection.

In appreciation of his contribution, Shishir Sharma received a certificate from the Dhoop Chaoon team along with members of the Aligarh Alumni Association of Atlanta, honoring his guidance, time, and inspiration. The workshop concluded with an enthusiastic atmosphere, as participants eagerly anticipated the next session, which organizer Bhagat assured would take place soon. The event highlighted Dhoop Chaoon’s dedication to fostering local talent and reinforcing the Hindi theatre community in Atlanta.