All the renowned theatre activists of Bangladesh remember preparing and serving tea for the senior members at least once when they joined any theatrical group.

It is hard work for the newcomers. When any theatrical group arranges a festival, the new entrants along with their seniors serve as volunteers. In the busy days, they have to work 14 or 15 hours a day.

In the run up to the ongoing drama festival, arranged by Theatre, the volunteers began work a month ago. A few days prior to the inauguration, some of the volunteers worked for 20 hours a day. Said Tanveer, a student, who works for Theatre, 'I helped with ticket distribution, props making and decoration in the festival. A few days before the inauguration, I slept only two hours a day.'

Other newcomers tell a similar story. What do these newcomers get from theatre? Initially, they get nothing but appreciation from team-mates which spurs them to work harder.

When some newcomers prove their worth they get a break to perform and reveal their potential. Here they get an instant response from the audience. However, the others remain undiscovered. These unrecognised theatre activists, who work for passion not for popularity, keep in touch with the medium as backstage workers. Thankfully, they receive respect from their team-mates.

These true theatre devotees, take leave from their professional work whenever the group demands. Feroz Khan, well known as 'Sabu Bhai' amongst the juniors, said, 'I have been working for Theatre since 1980. I always bear the hall management responsibilities during the shows. And, I thoroughly enjoy my work. Theatre is like my family. Although a businessman by profession, during these days backstage work is my only job, as my group needs me right at this moment.'

And there are many 'Sabu Bhais' in each of the theatrical groups. It is often tough for the activists to balance theatre and career. As Maruf Kabir, a Senior Programme Officer of Bangladesh Centre for Communication Programmes (BCCP) said, 'I perform in theatre and assist with the management aspect during the festival. Previously, I used to perform on the small-screen. However, when I was compelled to choose between theatre or TV, I opted for theatre.'

Describing his backstage work, he said, 'I have to co-ordinate with my office colleagues during the festival. After the festival is over we collect all the materials like banners, festoons and other publicity materials.'

It would not be far off the mark to say that these low profile theatre workers are in dire need of promotion.