Abstract:
Goa, renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, has long been a melting pot of indigenous traditions and colonial influences. Among its most distinctive expressions of identity is its folk theatre, particularly Tiatr, Khell, and Zagor performance traditions deeply rooted in the socio-religious fabric of its communities. However, with the rapid urbanization of the state and the commodification of culture for tourism, these traditional art forms face the threat of dilution, marginalization, or extinction. This architectural thesis, titled "Reviving the Stage: Reclaiming Goa’s Cultural Identity through the Preservation and Promotion of Folk Theatre Traditions," explores how architecture can serve as an active agent in the revival of these practices by creating inclusive, adaptive, and culturally responsive performance spaces.
The study investigates the historical evolution, spatial characteristics, and sociocultural roles of Goan folk theatre, while mapping the reasons behind its gradual decline. It analyzes the shift in audience, performer demographics, and performance venues ; from intimate village squares and church courtyards to closed proscenium stages in urban centers. Through primary and secondary data , the research identifies the spatial and infrastructural gaps that hinder the continuity of these traditions.
The envisioned cultural hub includes open-air and flexible performance spaces, training zones, archives, and courtyards designed to encourage both formal performances and spontaneous community interaction.
Drawing inspiration from vernacular Goan architecture and indigenous materials, the project embraces a participatory, context-sensitive design process. It emphasizes creating layered spaces that blur the boundaries between performer and audience, stage and street, tradition and modernity. In doing so, the thesis positions architecture not only as a vessel for preservation but as an enabler of cultural production, social cohesion, and intergenerational exchange.
Ultimately, this thesis advocates for the revival of folk theatre as a living tradition embedded within the everyday life of Goan communities. It underscores the importance of social gathering and collective participation in sustaining cultural identity and imagines architecture as a catalyst for both artistic expression and communal resilience.
Keywords: Folk theatre, Goa, Cultural identity, Performance
