Karnataka Drama Teachers Criticise Hasty State Science Drama Competitions

Government high school drama teachers in Karnataka are unhappy with the Department of School Education for holding this year's Science Drama Competitions in a rush. The State-level event is set for Saturday in Shivamogga, organised alongside the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum to build a scientific mindset in students.

Timeline Pressures

Teachers say the Department started the process on October 28, moving the event to the State level within just 15 days. The circular about the "Science and Society" theme reached individual schools only on November 1. With taluk rounds set for November 5, teachers questioned how anyone could write, practice, and stage a play in four days. District and divisional rounds had to finish before November 11, and some teams reached Shivamogga immediately after finishing zonal contests on Friday. Teachers noted that neighbouring Kerala gives schools much more time to prepare for national-level contests.

Venue Change

Poor planning also affected the choice of venue. DIET Shivamogga principal Krishnamurthy initially picked an NGO-run hall that lacked basic sound, lighting, and screen facilities. After local theatre-lovers and teachers objected, the venue was moved to Shivamogga Rangayana.

Context

These annual science drama events draw student teams from across Karnataka to compete through regional rounds before reaching the State level and potentially representing the State nationally. Proper preparation time is generally seen as important for students to perform well in competitive theatre arts.