The Role of Language in the Survival of Bangladeshi Theatre Artists during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Perspective on Resurging Society's Hope and Changing Realities

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the theatre industry and its performers, causing psychological and socio-economic distress. This study examines the survival challenges faced by theatre artists in Meherpur, Bangladesh, during the pandemic and explores the role of language in their efforts to inspire hope and rejuvenate society. The paper investigates how these artists utilized online platforms and employed their native language, Bengali (L1), along with English, to communicate with the local population. By analyzing qualitative interviews with fifteen artists and administering a quantitative questionnaire to fifty-five participants, this study reveals the artists' resilience in overcoming psychological trauma and economic distress. It illustrates how their use of language, including English, facilitated their connection with the community, providing a source of support and encouragement during the lockdown period.