About Me

Kazi Toufikul Islam Emon began his journey in the world of theatre with a deep passion for storytelling and the performing arts. Growing up in Bangladesh, he was drawn to the stage from a young age, inspired by the cultural richness of his surroundings and the powerful social messages conveyed through traditional performance art.

Kazi Toufikul Islam Emon began his theatre journey in 1990 with the renowned Bangladeshi theatre group Aranyak Natyadal. This marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to the performing arts. As one of the most respected and politically conscious theatre groups in Bangladesh, Aranyak provided Emon with a strong foundation in socially engaged theatre. Under the guidance of seasoned theatre practitioners, he quickly developed a deep appreciation for the power of performance as a tool for storytelling, activism, and cultural preservation.

After his time with Aranyak, Emon continued to grow as an artist and arts manager, eventually becoming deeply involved with other cultural institutions such as Prachyanat. At Prachyanat, Emon not only trained as an actor but also immersed himself in the broader aspects of theatrical production, including stage management, direction, and arts administration. His dedication and curiosity pushed him beyond the local stage. He actively pursued international opportunities, later representing Bangladesh in global theatre residencies. But it all began with a sincere love for the craft and a desire to connect with people through performance—something that continues to drive his artistic journey today.

How Theater Journey Started

Kazi Toufikul Islam Emon’s story in theatre spans more than a quarter-century, woven through phases of intense learning, passionate performance, and innovative direction. Born in the final decades of the twentieth century, Toufikul first showed his flair for the arts during his early education, where he immersed himself in the language and performance techniques of stagecraft. Though specific schools and degrees aren’t widely documented, it is clear that he pursued formal training in drama and stage design, frequently described as “highly trained” with “strong stage instincts” by his peers and audiences

His dedication to refinement led him, in 1997, to become a founder member of Prachyanat, a Dhaka-based experimental theatre troupe founded by 11 enthusiastic theatre persons. Within Prachyanat, Toufikul immersed himself in multidisciplinary learning, absorbing lessons in acting, directing, dramaturgy, and design as the troupe explored the intersections of literary adaptation, folk tradition, and modernist expression

Toufikul’s early foray into professional theatre included a period with Aranyak Natyadal, a prestigious stage group that nurtured his understanding of narrative form, ensemble performance, and cultural resonance. Yet it was at Prachyanat that Toufikul’s creative faculties flourished.

Under the group’s collaborative ethos, he began acting in and directing numerous productions, most notably modern reinterpretations and adaptations. Among these, “Gondar,” adapted from Ionesco’s “Rhinoceros,” and “Kinu Kaharer Thetar,” by Manoj Mitra and directed by Toufikul, reveal his skill in bridging global dramatic works with Bangladeshi sensibilities.

Later, in 2010, he took on “Mayer Mukh,” a translation of Arnold Wesker’s play, displaying his fluency in transitioning between cultures while maintaining narrative depth Wikipedia.

Teaching Career

Toufikul also devoted himself to pedagogy. In 2001, he joined the faculty of Scholastica School, where he continued to shape young minds in the dramatic arts. His position there, noted as faculty of Drama since 2001, reflects not only his passion for sharing knowledge but also his commitment to cultivating the next generation of theatre practitioners

This role demonstrates a profound understanding of foundational theatre education—melding technique, experimentation, and cultural awareness

As An Actor

Kazi Toufikul Islam Emon began his theatre journey in 1990 with the esteemed group Aranyak Natyadal, where he refined his craft through powerful, socially conscious productions.

Later, Emon became associated with Prachyanat, another leading theatre troupe, where he took part in various productions, including "Koinna", a bold and experimental theatrical piece exploring gender and identity. His stage presence, depth, and commitment to character development earned him recognition within the theatre community

Beyond the stage, Emon expanded his career into electronic media, acting in television dramas and telefilms. His seamless transition between stage and screen showcases his adaptability and deep passion for the performing arts—qualities that continue to define his artistic journey.

As a Director

As a director, Kazi Toufikul Islam Emon has demonstrated both literary ambition and historical acumen. His directorial work reached a notable zenith with “Khwabnama,” adapted from Akhtaruzzaman Elias’s novel and staged first in August 2022, then revived in 2023 and again in late 2024. This production grappled with the socio-political ramifications of partition-era Bengal, presenting complex themes of sectarian strife, class conflict, and collective memory. Toufikul’s thoughtful stewardship of the play’s narrative complexity and historical nuance earned praise: Khaliquzzaman Elias, the brother of the original author, lauded the adaptation; and Toufikul described the challenge of translating Elias’s literary depth into live performance as immensely fulfilling.

His direction allowed audiences to reflect on untold histories while engaging them in powerful theatrical storytelling.

Toufikul’s work further expanded into socially conscious theatre. In 2022, he directed Prachyanat’s production of “Pulsiraat,” an adaptation of Palestinian refugee narratives drawn from Ghassan Kanafani’s “Men in the Sun.” Presented alongside a production team that included high-profile filmmakers like Jaya Ahsan and Ferdous, the play cogently explored themes of migration, survival, and existential hope. Through “Pulsiraat,” Toufikul fostered solidarity across cultural lines and contextualized the refugee crisis within a Bangladeshi frame, reaffirming theatre’s role in reflecting global social issues.

Working As A Theater Designer

Toufikul’s gifts extend beyond direction and performance into design. His stagecraft is recognized for its evocative use of lighting, props, costumes, and spatial dynamics. In “The Zoo Story,” for example, he not only directed the actors but also took responsibility for costumes and props, delivering a coherent visual language that complemented his thematic concerns. His design philosophy embraces the interplay of minimalism and symbolism, ensuring that each visual element serves the emotional and narrative contours of the performance.

Global Collaboration

Beyond his institutional contributions, Toufikul sought to improve his craft through exposure to international theatre practices. A crowning example occurred in May 2025, when he was accepted to The Childhood Project, a theatre residency in Diyarbakir, Turkey, organized by Sweden’s Unga Klara and funded by the Swedish government. As the sole Asian representative among 22 artists from 11 countries, Toufikul participated as actor and liaison, contributing to “The Guardians of the Gods”—a collaborative exploration of identity and power in childhood. His reflections on working with visionary directors and a multinational ensemble underscore his ongoing commitment to global learning and innovation.

Achievement

Apu Aman Natya Srijan Sammanana

These multifaceted contributions have been acknowledged through honors and awards. In December 2024, at the Apu Aman Natya Asar—a street theatre festival held at Mirpur in Dhaka—Toufikul was awarded the Apu Aman Natya Srijan Sammanana for his outstanding contributions to theatre. The accolade recognized not only his direction of socially and culturally resonant plays but also his leadership and commitment to fostering collective creativity through street performance and ensemble work Indeed.

Sm soliman pronodona Britti

The SM Sultan Pronodona, awarded to Kazi Toufiqoul Emon in 2008, stands as a significant milestone in his career and a testament to his dedication to the theatrical arts in Bangladesh. Named after the renowned Bangladeshi artist SM Sultan, the award honors young dramatists and theatre practitioners who have made remarkable contributions to the cultural landscape. Receiving this award early in his career, Emon was recognized not only for his artistic talent but also for his commitment to nurturing and expanding the theatre community. This accolade is symbolic of his emerging leadership within the industry and highlights his role in bringing fresh narratives and innovative theatrical expressions to the stage. The 2008 recognition came at a time when the theatre scene in Bangladesh was evolving rapidly, and Emon’s work was instrumental in pushing boundaries. His dedication to theatre extended beyond acting into directing, writing, and mentoring, making him a multifaceted contributor. The award acknowledged his efforts to bridge traditional and contemporary forms, thereby enriching the cultural fabric of Bangladeshi theatre. The honor also served as an encouragement for young artists to pursue theatre passionately and to experiment with form and content. Receiving the SM Sultan Pronodona elevated Emon’s profile nationally, opening doors for collaborations with other leading theatre groups and practitioners. It validated his creative vision and affirmed his influence in shaping modern theatre practices. For Emon, this award was more than a personal achievement; it was a reflection of his commitment to preserving and innovating theatre as a vibrant cultural medium that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Komasri podok Batighar

In 2015, Kazi Toufiqoul Emon was honored with the Komasri Podok by Batighor Theater, an award that further solidified his standing as a dedicated and impactful figure in Bangladeshi theatre. Batighor Theater, known for its commitment to socially relevant and artistically rigorous productions, chose to recognize Emon’s contributions at a time when his work was gaining wider acclaim. The Komasri Podok is awarded to theatre practitioners who demonstrate excellence in performance and direction, along with a commitment to socially conscious storytelling. Receiving this award from Batighor was particularly meaningful, as it reflected Emon’s ability to engage audiences not just artistically but also intellectually and emotionally. His work often addressed complex social issues, weaving narratives that challenged audiences to reflect on societal norms and injustices. This recognition underscored Emon’s role as a theatre artist who uses the stage as a platform for dialogue and change. His ability to balance artistic innovation with a message of social relevance has made him a respected figure among his peers and the theatre-going public. The Komasri Podok also marked a period of increased responsibility for Emon, as he took on leadership roles within theatre groups and festivals. His contributions extended into mentoring younger actors and directors, fostering a collaborative and nurturing environment within the theatre community. This award not only celebrated his past achievements but also encouraged his ongoing efforts to elevate theatre as a tool for cultural enrichment and social transformation.

Moncho Bondhu Shommanona by Batikrom Natyogosti

Also in 2016, Kazi Toufiqoul Emon was honored with the Moncho Bondhu award by Batikrom Natyogosti, another prestigious recognition emphasizing his status as a “Friend of the Stage.” This award, given by Batikrom Natyogosti—a respected theatre troupe known for its dynamic and experimental performances—further acknowledges Emon’s multifaceted contributions to theatre. The Moncho Bondhu award is reserved for artists who demonstrate not only artistic excellence but also a profound commitment to the sustainability and vitality of theatre. Receiving this award from Batikrom Natyogosti in the same year as the Moncho Bondhu Shommanona from Batighor underscores the widespread respect Emon commands across different theatre circles. It highlights his versatility and ability to collaborate across diverse groups and artistic styles. His influence extends beyond acting and directing to include advocacy for theatre as a cultural institution and a community practice. The Moncho Bondhu award also recognizes Emon’s role in pioneering new theatrical approaches that resonate with contemporary audiences while honoring traditional forms. His work with Batikrom and other troupes demonstrates a keen understanding of the evolving nature of performance art and the need for innovation. This honor cements his reputation as a visionary theatre practitioner dedicated to enriching Bangladesh’s cultural heritage and inspiring future generations of artists.

In summary,

Kazi Toufikul Islam

 journey from enthusiastic student and ensemble player at Aranyak, through creative lifework with Prachyanat, to award-winning director, educator, and designer, maps an inspiring arc of continuous growth. His dedication to formal drama training, his passion for mentoring emerging artists, his bold international collaborations, and his recognition both domestically and abroad affirm his status as one of Bangladesh’s most influential contemporary theatre practitioners.