Q. Tell us about yourself, where are you from and your educational background. 

Julley! My name is Tsering Lhamo, and I am an actor, theatre practitioner, and drama teacher from Sumoor, Nubra Valley, Ladakh. I graduated from the National School of Drama, Delhi, where I earned my postgraduate diploma in Dramatic Arts with a specialization in acting. Since 2016, I have been passionately involved in theatre, dedicating my time to both performing and teaching.

Q. What inspired you to choose a diploma in Dramatic arts for your post graduation from National School of Drama and what course did you have for your Bachelors? 

Ever since I was introduced to theatre, I have found the world of storytelling through this medium incredibly captivating. Theatre offers a unique way to express emotions and connect with audiences on a deeper level. We all know that the National School of Drama, Delhi is a prestigious institution where one can learn the art of theatre and develop their skills thoroughly. For my Bachelor’s degree, I pursued a B.Com, but alongside my studies, I was actively involved in college theatre. It was during this time that I got to know about NSD, and my passion for theatre grew even stronger. 

Q. How was your journey at NSD, was it challenging? 

My journey at the National School of Drama was both incredibly challenging and immensely rewarding. NSD is renowned for its rigorous training and high standards, and being part of such a prestigious institution was a transformative experience for me. The challenges were many. The curriculum was demanding, with intense schedules and a wide range of subjects that pushed me to explore every facet of theatre, from acting and direction to design and production. The faculty, comprised of experienced and respected professionals in the field, pushed us to break our boundaries and explore the full extent of our creative potential. Our instructors encouraged us to step outside our comfort zones and experiment with different styles and techniques, which was exciting and daunting both. 

Q. How does it feel to be the first female artist from Leh-Ladakh to graduate from NSD? 

Being the first female theatre artist from Leh-Ladakh to graduate from the National School of Drama is both an honour and a privilege. It feels incredible to represent my community and pave the way for future generations of artists from our beautiful region. Growing up in Ladakh, surrounded by its rich culture and storytelling traditions has deeply influenced my passion for theatre. This achievement is not just a personal milestone but also a testament to the support and encouragement I’ve received from my family and community. I hope to inspire young women in my region to pursue their dreams and to show that with dedication and perseverance, we can break barriers. I am committed to bringing the unique stories of Ladakh to the world stage and celebrating our cultural heritage through the arts. This accomplishment belongs to everyone who has supported me, and I am excited to continue my journey in the world of theatre and to contribute to the vibrant community of Indian performing arts. 

Q. Why do you think it is that very few people from Ladakh pursue degrees or diploma in Theatre or Drama artist?

There are several reasons why very few people from Ladakh pursue degrees or diplomas in theatre or drama. One of the main factors is the limited access to theatre education and resources in the region. Ladakh is geographically remote, and opportunities for formal training in the performing arts are scarce compared to urban centres. Many aspiring artists may not have the means to travel or relocate for their studies, which can be a significant barrier. Additionally, traditional career paths such as engineering, medicine, or government jobs are often prioritized due to cultural expectations and the perception of job stability. Theatre and drama are sometimes viewed as unconventional career choices, and there may be a lack of awareness about the opportunities and potential that exist within the performing arts. With increased support and opportunities, I believe more talented individuals from Ladakh will pursue their passion for the performing arts in the future. 

Q. You have performed over 20 plays, playing diverse roles so which role is your favourite?

Choosing a favourite role from the many diverse characters I’ve had the privilege to portray is difficult, as each one holds a special place in my heart. However, if I had to choose, my favourite role would be that of Nora in A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen. Directed by Amitesh Grover, this role allowed me to explore Nora’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment, which resonated deeply with me. Bringing her to life on stage was a transformative experience. Her struggle to find her own identity and break free from societal constraints is a story that continues to be both relevant and powerful

Q. What is the status of Ladakh in carrying forward Theatre dramas, does it have the potential to flourish in future? 

The status of theatre in Ladakh is currently in a nascent stage, with a growing but still limited presence in the region. Traditionally, Ladakh has a rich cultural heritage with various forms of storytelling and performance, but formal theatre, as we know it is relatively new and developing. Through theatre workshops and interactions, I’ve observed a budding interest and enthusiasm for the art form among the younger generation. To cultivate this interest, we need to provide continuous training and ensure that theatre workshops and classes are available in schools, colleges, and universities. Additionally, the infrastructure and resources necessary to fully support and expand theatre are still emerging. Despite these challenges, Ladakh has significant potential to thrive in theatre. The region’s unique cultural backdrop, with its rich traditions and diverse narratives, offers a wealth of stories that could captivate audiences and create a distinctive theatrical identity. Additionally, there is increasing recognition of the importance of the arts in education, which could lead to more support and opportunities for aspiring artists. 

Q. You worked with several renowned directors, what all did you learn from them that you can apply to Ladakh? 

Working with renowned directors has provided me with practical insights that I believe can greatly benefit the theatre culture in Ladakh. From these experiences, I’ve learned that establishing a team-oriented approach is essential for building a dynamic and supportive creative community. Embracing innovative techniques and experimenting with new methods can infuse our productions with fresh perspectives. Paying meticulous attention to detail ensures high-quality performances, even with limited resources. Engaging with the local audience by reflecting their stories and issues can make theatre more relevant and impactful. Finally, being resourceful with available materials and finding creative solutions can help us maximize what we have and achieve our goals. Implementing these lessons can help cultivate a vibrant and sustainable theatre community in Ladakh.

Q. How would you inspire students to opt for Drama arts in their graduation or post graduation?

If you’re thinking about Drama Arts, I’d say go for it!  This field isn’t just about acting on stage; it’s about developing skills that are incredibly useful in any career. You’ll learn how to communicate effectively, think creatively, and work well with others. These skills are not only essential for a career in theatre but are also highly transferable to various other professions. The discipline and teamwork involved in theatre production build strong collaboration and leadership abilities that are beneficial in any field. Theatre also offers a chance to explore different perspectives and express yourself in unique ways. Plus, getting involved in drama can open doors to various careers, from directing and writing to set design and production. I’d recommend getting involved in local theatre groups or taking part in workshops to see if it’s something you’re passionate about. Overall, It’s a vibrant and rewarding path that can offer you a lot, both personally and professionally. 

Q. Do you have any plans to perform in Ladakh?

I recently performed a solo play titled Shyok in Ladakh, with three shows in Leh and one in Kargil. The audience response was very positive. We are planning additional shows for Shyok and also working on new plays to bring to Ladakh in the future.

MESSAGE TO THE READERS 
I encourage you to explore and support the arts in your communities. Theatre and drama inspire, connect, and enrich our lives. Your engagement, as participants or audience members, helps sustain this vital art form. Thank you for your support and interest!