Bury the Dead
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National School of Drama, New Delhi
Abstract
Bury the Dead is a Design Scenework based on the anti-war play by Irwin Shaw. The project explores the themes of war, death, human suffering, and resistance through scenographic design and visual storytelling. Designed and directed by Gagan R. Godgal under the guidance of Salim Arif, the presentation demonstrates how scenic composition, space, texture, lighting, and symbolic imagery can communicate the emotional and philosophical dimensions of the play. Developed as part of the Third Year Design & Direction programme at the National School of Drama, the scenework reflects an experimental approach to theatrical design.
Description
Gagan R. Godgal is a Third Year Design & Direction student at the National School of Drama. Through Bury the Dead, Gagan explores the relationship between dramatic text and scenographic expression, creating a visual interpretation that supports the play's anti-war narrative. The project combines conceptual design, spatial composition, and theatrical aesthetics under the mentorship of Salim Arif.
Salim Arif is a distinguished Indian theatre director, actor, writer, and mentor known for his contributions to contemporary Indian theatre. With extensive experience in stage direction and performance, he has guided numerous theatre practitioners and students in developing innovative approaches to dramatic interpretation and stagecraft. As the guide for Bury the Dead, Salim Arif mentored the conceptual development and scenographic realization of the project, encouraging the integration of dramatic literature with visual and spatial design.
Citation
National School of Drama. (2025, December 27). Bury the Dead (Design Scenework) [Scenographic design presentation]. Designed and directed by Gagan R. Godgal under the guidance of Salim Arif. National School of Drama, New Delhi.
