THE 345th presentation of Kanjush . a drama by Lok-natyada! took place at the Guide House Auditorium on September 3 last. Lokonatya Dal has earned quite a reoputation for itself over the years for staging such comedies as Kanjush. This particular drama has entertained thousands of viewers around the country and seems all set to continue io do so. This is the only theatrical presentation which has been presented 345 times. Lokonatya Dal has so far earned oround taka sixteen lakhs from staging the play.

Kanjush is translated from a French masterpiece by playwright Moliere. The musical comedy Kanjush . (which means a miser) was directed by Liakat Ali Lucky.

Tareque Anain Khan translated the play on the contemporary basis of the sub continent's culture, with some delicate touch of course. ’

Similar to the other comedies of Moliere, this drama is also influenced by the French patrimony and the Italian Comedia Delarte. in which the cleverness and the fierceness of each of the characters predominate. Moltere's talent lay in his play with melody and words, interesting script, humorous dialogues and a happy ending .

Living upto the quality of Moliere’s authentic drama by the famous Persi theater, was not an easy task for the performers. The character's created by the famous French playwright had quick move-

ments with dialogues and songs. The expression of face and body were also important parts of the performance. Only the devoted practice of the performers carried them through with flying colours and the play became a hit with the local audience.

The story is based on the egoistic and selfish character of Haider Ali, representing the greed and vulgar among the society in this delicate comedy. In one of the scenes of the drama Haider Ali and his son get into

a. sword fight — this was dramatised with such ease of flow and movement and stands out almost as an example of the quality of performance by the actors.

The main character of the play Haider Ali, was played by Emdadul Karim Emdad. Among the other performers Sabina Bari Lucky. Ugine Gomes. Reja Mahmud Lenin and over all Liakat Ali Lucky's performance were also outstanding. The stage design further highlighted the representation the actual

meaning of title "Kanjush" through the use of cheap materials! The live musical performance with traditional instruments in the background and singing and dancing with the music made the play more interesting.

The drama once again gave a houmorus ride to the audience-who were reduced to tears of laughter every now and then ana seemd to be really enjoying their time. For the 345 time. Kanjush proved that it reigned in the hearts of the audience.