TBT DESK
Popular Bangladeshi actress Tamalika Karmakar is set to perform on a US stage for the first time in six years, bringing the acclaimed play “Omanush” to the audience in Virginia.
The production, presented by Suchana Theatre, will be staged on 4 October at 5:30pm at the City of Alexandria-Lee Centre on Jefferson Street in Alexandria.
Known for her versatile performances in television, cinema, and theatre, Tamalika has been living in the United States for the past six years. Although she has remained connected with the arts, the play “Omanush” marks her first stage performance in the US during this period.
Tamalika began her acting career in Bangladesh through television and film. She earned widespread popularity through BTV dramas including “KonKanonerPhul”, “Kothao Keu Nei”, and “Sarabela”. She also appeared in the film “OnnoJibon”. Her theatre journey began when legendary theatre personality Mamunur Rashid brought her into his renowned troupe Aranyak.
She made her stage debut in 1992 with “Pathor”, written by Mamunur Rashid and directed by Azizul Hakim. Over the years, she went on to perform in numerous productions, including “Mayur Singhasan”, “Joy Joyanti”, “Rarang”, “Shatrugan”, “Uporwala”, “Bhangabanga”, “The Jubilee Hotel”, “Iblish”, “Helakhela”, and “Prakritojan Katha”.
Written by Mamunur Rashid around 31 years ago, “Omanush” holds a special place in Tamalika’s theatrical journey. However, staging the play in the US without her mentor and beloved “Mamun uncle” has left her feeling somewhat apprehensive.
“The fact that ‘Omanush’ is being staged without the esteemed Mamun uncle beside me makes me feel a bit anxious. I know his blessings are always with me; nevertheless, performing this play places a heightened sense of responsibility upon me,” Tamalika said.
For Tamalika, the audience’s response remains one of the most compelling aspects of theatre. She believes stage drama is not only a form of entertainment but also a powerful medium for addressing social and class realities. Through ‘Omanush’, she hopes to reconnect with audiences and begin a new chapter of her theatrical journey on the US stage.
