Bharatendu Academy of Dramatic Arts, or BADA in short, is one of the most prestigious dramatic arts institutions in India. The academy is named after Bharatendu Harishchandra, a renowned Hindi poet, playwright, and one of the pioneers of modern Hindi literature. Established in 1975, BADA has been providing quality education and training in various aspects of theatre and performing arts for more than four decades.
History
The idea of establishing an academy for dramatic arts was conceived by a group of theatre enthusiasts and practitioners in the early 1970s. They wanted to create a platform where aspiring artists could learn, experiment, and showcase their skills in a professional environment. The academy was officially inaugurated on 8th February 1975, with the blessings of late Shri Brij Narain Chakbast, a prominent Urdu poet, and playwright.
Initially, the academy offered a two-year diploma course in drama and theatre arts. Over the years, the curriculum has been expanded to include various other courses and workshops on acting, direction, playwriting, production design, and other related subjects. The academy has also collaborated with several national and international institutions to offer exchange programs and joint productions.
Courses and Programs
BADA offers a wide range of courses and programs for students at different levels of experience and expertise. The academy's flagship course is the three-year diploma in dramatic arts, which covers all aspects of theatre and performing arts, including acting, direction, scriptwriting, production design, and stage management. The diploma course is open to students who have completed their 10+2 education or equivalent.
Besides the diploma course, BADA also offers short-term courses and workshops on various subjects, such as voice modulation, movement, improvisation, characterisation, and others. The academy also conducts summer camps and theatre festivals to promote the art and culture of theatre among the general public.
Facilities
BADA has state-of-the-art facilities for its students and faculty members. The academy has a spacious campus spread over 12 acres of land in the heart of Lucknow city. The campus has an auditorium, black box theatre, rehearsal halls, library, computer lab, and other facilities required for training and research. The academy also has a hostel for outstation students and a guest house for visiting faculty and artists.
Faculty and Alumni
BADA has a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The faculty members include renowned theatre practitioners, actors, directors, and scholars who have made significant contributions to the world of theatre and performing arts. The academy also invites guest faculty members from India and abroad to share their expertise and knowledge with the students.
Over the years, BADA has produced several notable alumni who have made a mark in the world of theatre, film, and television. Some of the prominent alumni of the academy include Rajpal Yadav, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Piyush Mishra, and many others.
Admission Process
The admission process for BADA's diploma course is conducted through a nationwide entrance examination, which is usually held in the month of May or June every year. The entrance examination comprises a written test, followed by a practical test and an interview. The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in all three tests and their overall academic record.
The short-term courses and workshops are open to all interested candidates, subject to availability of seats and other criteria specified by the academy.
Conclusion
Bharatendu Academy of Dramatic Arts is a premier institution for theatre and performing arts education in India. The academy's commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity has made it a hub of creative and intellectual activity in the field of theatre. With its world-class facilities, experienced faculty, and diverse student community, BADA offers a unique learning experience for aspiring artists who want to explore their creativity and passion for the performing arts.
