Kupwara, Nov 11 (KNS): Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Abhishek Sharma on Wednesday said acting and theatre workshops would be organised in the district to provide professional training to aspiring artists, particularly those from remote and border villages where opportunities in creative fields remain limited.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the grand finale of Kashmir Got Talent in Kupwara, Sharma, as per Kashmir News Service (KNS), said the administration had discussed the proposal with artists from the entertainment industry, some of whom had expressed willingness to conduct workshops for local youth.

"We have spoken to some artists, and they are ready for theatre and acting workshops. They feel that these young artists need a little push," he said.

Sharma said the district had considerable talent in music, acting and theatre, but young performers needed opportunities to interact with experienced professionals and develop their skills.

He said Kupwara's geographical location, with several villages situated along the Line of Control (LoC), made such opportunities particularly important for aspiring artists.

Responding to a question about the demand for a dedicated art academy in the district, Sharma said the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages was already working in the field of arts and culture, but emerging creative disciplines required regular training and updated skills.

He said technological developments had changed the nature of artistic work, with areas such as mobile filmmaking creating new opportunities that required continuous learning.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

"Rather than an academy, if we organise regular workshops, it would be more practical. An academy requires trainers, resources and other arrangements," he said.

Sharma said the administration intended to pursue the workshop proposal in the coming period, although he did not specify a timeline, budget or the number of programmes to be organised.

Referring to Kashmir Got Talent, the Deputy Commissioner said the event was intended to continue as a series, with Kupwara hosting its first edition.

He said the participation of established artists from music, acting and theatre had provided local performers an opportunity to present their talent before professionals from the industry.

"The talent they have seen here today and appreciated will work as a big platform in the future. It will serve as a bridge for our young budding artists to achieve their dreams," he said.

Sharma said the event had also highlighted the need for sustained training opportunities rather than limiting support for young performers to occasional talent competitions.

He acknowledged the role of the Indian Army and Taha Films International in organising the event and thanked participating artists, students and their families.

The Deputy Commissioner also appreciated Government Degree College Kupwara and local residents for their participation.

While the administration has indicated plans for acting and theatre workshops, details regarding their implementation and the involvement of professional trainers are yet to be announced. (KNS)