Lucknow’s hidden gems: Actor Roli Singh says ‘theatre results in personality development’

Roli Singh is an emerging theatre actor who rose to fame with her work in the play Gaon Mein Kuch Bura Hone Wala Hai. An advocate by profession, she considers acting and dancing to be her first passions. The newcomer began her journey over a year ago and has since acted in productions such as Aa Se Azadi and Shunya aur Vrit. Roli is also part of theatre associations like Mocking Birds Theatre Company and Abhivakti. 

Roli Singh is an emerging theatre actor. | Credit: Roli Singh

She is also the recipient of the UPAA  (UP Artist Association) Award. In an exclisive interview with Roktim Rajpal Diaries, Roli opens up about the importance of theatre in one’s life and the type of roles that she wants to do going forward.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

How did your tryst with theatre begin?

I was interested in acting and dance right from my childhood. However, time passed and I got married. There was a gap after I settled down. Now, I have finally resumed theatre again. 

You are also an advocate. How do you manage that with your theatre career?

Theatre is a medium that benefits and gels with all professions. It results in one’s overall growth. Theatre helps in personality development and enhances your communication skills. Moreover, you develop a fresh perspective and be more emphatic twords life’s situations. 

You made your debut with Gaon Mein Kuch Bura Hone Wala Hai. How did you prepare for it?

I did workshops and rehearsals to work on the body language. Moreover, working with a veteran like Gunjan (Jain) ma’am was an experience. I really admire the way woh calm and compose rehke kaam karti hai.

What are the challenges associated with performing in theatre?

Theatre mein cut nahi hota hai. If you make a mistake, it can’t be corrected. We rehearse for nearly three months to make sure everything is perfect and eliminate errors.

There was a time once when It was not easy for women to perform in theatre as there were no pick-and-drop facilities. Have things changed now? 

Things have improved now thanks to facilities like Ola and Uber. However, support from one’s family is a must. Additionally, it is also important to be financially stable and pursue this as a passion. 

What is your family’s reaction to your career in theatre?

My family is really supportive. They even watch me perform. 

Any plans to act in films?

Theatre is usually the first step in an actor’s journey. If opportunities arise then why not?

Are there any roles that you are not open to doing?

I want to do good work so role toh accha hi hona chahiye. It is important for me to also be able to understand the character. If that does not happen, then l turn it down. 

Any dream roles?

I haven't thought much along these lines. I just want to learn more and keep trying out something new.