GCW Parade, Rangyug conclude Masks and Props Workshop, 80 students showcase handcrafted works

• Experiential theatre training aligns with NEP-2020 goals, enhances student abilities: Dr. Ravender Tickoo
• Workshop reflects Rangyug’s mission to foster creativity, mentorship and professional excellence in theatre: Deepak Kumar

JAMMU: The Skill Development Cell, Department of Performing Arts (Theatre), Government College for Women Parade Ground, in collaboration with Rangyug, concluded the seven-day Masks & Props Workshop today with an exhibition-cum-sale of masks and props created by the students. The workshop, held from November 29 to December 4, 2025, witnessed participation of around 80 students from different departments, including participants from the first and third semesters of the Theatre Skill Course.

During the exhibition, students showcased a wide range of handmade theatre masks and props, reflecting creativity, craftsmanship and an understanding of visual design and stage aesthetics. Several items were sold to visitors, faculty members and students, encouraging learners to explore artistic entrepreneurship alongside skill development.

Speaking on the occasion, Nodal Principal All colleges Jammu Division, Dr. Ravender Kumar Tickoo congratulated the students and expressed satisfaction over their creative output. He stated that the workshop has strengthened students' confidence, enhanced their practical understanding of theatre production and promoted interdisciplinary learning. He further emphasized that such initiatives are crucial for implementing NEP-2020 in letter and spirit by integrating skill-based, experiential learning into higher education.

Founder/Director Rangyug Deepak Kumar appreciated the enthusiastic response of the students and highlighted the importance of hands-on learning in theatre education. He said that the workshop reflects Rangyug’s mission to nurture young performers through creative exploration, professional mentorship and collaborative pedagogy, preparing them for contemporary theatre and allied creative industries.

 The technical sessions were conducted by Narinder Sharma, a renowned theatre practitioner with over 35 years of experience. He trained the participants in mask-making, prop designing, material handling, colour mixing and visual interpretation, enabling them to produce theatre-ready objects independently.

 The workshop concluded with interactive sessions, peer review, and reflections by students who shared their experiences of learning new skills, working with diverse materials and understanding the functional role of design in performance.

The initiative underscores the efforts of GCW Parade and Rangyug to create meaningful platforms for artistic engagement, promote skill development and build a vibrant culture of theatre education in Jammu & Kashmir. The faculty members who observed the details of the masks and other exhibition items were; Dr Alpana Vohra, Dr Rakesh Kumar, Dr Atiya Sayeed and Randheer Kour from Arts, Sciences and Computer Sciences Departments.