The first edition of Bangladesh International Theatre Festival was held at National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Segunbagicha in the city.

On the occasion of the festival, a press conference was held at Seminar Room of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on June 18. The festival was organised by cultural affairs ministry, in association with Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, International Theatre Institute (ITI) and Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation.

The press conference was attended by KM Khalid, Ministry of Cultural Affairs; International Theatre Institute honourary president Ramendu Majumder, ITI Bangladesh chapter president Nasiruddin Yousuff, acting cultural affairs secretary Abu Hena Mostofa Kamal and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy director general Liaquat Ali Lucky.

Planning minister MA Mannan was present as the chief guest at the inauguration of the festival, while state minister for cultural affairs ministry KM Khalid inaugurated the festival.

The weeklong festival featured theatre and puppet shows by eight troupes from seven countries. Besides, the festival also featured seminar, lecture and workshops. Six theatre troupes from Russia, China, France, India, Vietnam and Nepal, along with two local troupes also performed at the festival.

Dhriti Nartanalaya's Mayar Khela was staged on the opening day; the festival featured shows of 'Oh My Sweet Land' by Thètre de Vidy Lausanne and Young Vic London (France) and Macbeth by Chorus Repertory Theatre (India) on June 21. Local troupe Annesha Theatre staged Jaytun Bibir Pala on June 22. Chinese troupe Johoo Theatre staged 'F ck' on June 23.