The venue of the fourth edition of the International Film Festival Shimla is no less than a historic grandeur. Gaiety Theater is a popular landmark of Shimla and an admired cultural hub. Once popularly known as the mecca of Shimla high society, it is one of the legendary buildings of India. Built in 1887 in a neo-gothic design by celebrated English Architect Henry Irwin (who also designed the Viceregal Lodge, well known as IIAS today), it was designed as Town Hall but later named after the renowned Gaiety Theater of London. The building’s exquisite architecture is a true manifestation of Victorian artistry. It is the only Gothic theatre in Asia, and amongst just six in the entire world. Having a rich history to its glory, Gaiety Theatre is the place where Viceroy Lord Lytton wrote and staged a play called ‘Walpole’. During the British Era, it was a popular entertainment spot of the British Officials and their families where they socialized.
Many eminent personalities including Rudyard Kipling, Baten Powel, K.L. Sehgal, Prithvi Raj Kapoor, the Kendall’s, Balraj Sahni, Pran, Manohar Singh, Shashi Kapoor, Raj Babbar, Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher have made their stage performances in Gaiety Theatre Shimla. Since the 19th century the Gaiety Theatre has been holding many plays, exhibitions and other cultural events that encourage the art and culture in Himachal Pradesh.
Cinema is a brilliant way of expressing various cultures and societies. Having the screening of the fourth edition of IFFS in a place with such a marvelous history is one of the key highlights of the event. It is a proud worthy moment to host a film festival in Gaiety Theatre which has been the mecca of many theatre artists who have excelled in cinema as well. The screening of the IFFS will take place from 12 October to 14 October where around 80 films by Indian as well as international film makers. The audience will get a chance to watch the national award winning films by well-known film makers during the three days long event.
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