Team Herald
MARGAO: On the 77th death anniversary of renowned tiatrist João Agostinho Fernandes, a group of tiatrists on Thursday gathered at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, to voice their concerns over the delay in appointing a new executive committee for the Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG).
Expressing frustration over the lack of progress, which is hindering the growth and support of tiatr, the traditional Goan theatre, tiatrists comprising directors and producers, emphasised the urgent need for a new leadership team to address ongoing issues to advance the academy’s mission.
Tiatrists claimed that in the absence of a new executive committee, several pressing issues remain unresolved and various schemes have not been implemented fully. They said that the delay is stalling the progress and affecting the overall development of tiatr.
They came together to honour the legacy of the renowned tiatrist. The gathering provided an opportunity for the community to reflect on Fernandes’ contributions to Goan theatre.
Speaking to mediaperons, former president Menino Fernandes, popularly known as Menino de Bandar, claimed that many schemes and programmes of the Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG) are not being fully implemented, with only a few exceptions.
“Almost a year has passed, and the government has yet to constitute the new TAG committee,” Fernandes stated.
“There are several schemes and programmes that need to be organised. We must keep in mind that TAG is considered the parent body of the tiatrists, engaged in activities aimed at the promoting and developing tiatr, he said and stressed the urgency to appoint a new committee to ensure the effective advancement of tiatr and proper implementation of its initiatives.
It is pertinent to note that Fernandes was the last to hold the TAG president’s post from October 12, 2020, to October 11, 2023. Since then, Art and Culture Director Sagun R Velip, has been holding the post.
This interim arrangement has led to concerns about the delays in appointing a new executive committee and the impact on the implementation of TAG’s programmes and schemes.
Expressing disappointment over the delay in constituting the new TAG committee, noted tiatr director Roseferns said, “Our request to the government is to take this issue seriously and constitute the committee immediately. This will ensure that tiatrists receive the support they need for the development of tiatr.”
A few other tiatr directors also demanded the immediate formation of a new committee for the TAG. They stressed that the issues faced by tiatrists should not be left unresolved.