John D Rockfeller Award 2007, to be conferred on Ratan Thiyam

{image-Ratan Tiyam_15122007.jpg news.oneindia.in}Imphal, Dec 15: Internationally acclaimed theatre personality Ratan Thiyam will be bestowed with the John D Rockefeller Award, 2007, in recognition of his extraordinary achievements as a theatre director, writer, designer, musician, actor and cultural leader.

T Dolendro of the Chorus Repertory announced here today that the Chorus Repertory Theatre, headed by Ratan Thiyam, had been making important contributions in popularising the performing arts of Manipur as well as the country among the international community. The Asian Cultural Council (ACC) presents the John D Rockefeller Award to an individual from Asia or the United States for his significant contribution to the international understanding, practice, or study of the visual or performing arts of Asia.

The award commemorates the deep and long standing interest of John D Rockefeller in Asian art and culture.

The candidates for the John D Rockefeller Award are nominated by artists, scholars and other professionals involved in Asian art and culture.

The awardees are selected by ACC trustees, in consultation with various specialists in the candidates' fields as well as qualified individuals having first hand knowledge of the nominees' professional activities and accomplishments.

The award enables recipients to pursue work in various aspects of Asian arts through international travel and research.

Speaking about the accomplishments of the literary genius, T Dolendro said Mr Thiyam firmly believed that plays should be based on logic and reason - it should mirror the society and analyse the social changes as well as comment on them.

''His plays have become ever more experimental with each new play. His writings also equally voice his concern for his native land. Mr Thiyam's plays are highly appreciated throughout the world,'' T Dolendro added.

UNI