The dispute centres on theatre troupe Tarua, which had secured the National Theatre Hall for April 22–24 to stage “All Quiet on the Western Front”, an adaptation of the legendary book by the same name. The group began rehearsals and ticket sales after receiving approval.

The play explores the psychological and physical toll of World War I, tracing the journey of young soldiers as they are transformed from patriotic youths into disillusioned veterans.

Announcing the official prize-giving ceremony of “Ishrat Nishat Natya Puraskar 2023” on February 9, the committee’s executive committee chairman, Nasir Uddin Yousuff, along with chief coordinator Selina Shelley, declared the names of the nominated theatre personalities in categories of best in production, director, playwright, male actor, female actor, best light designer, set designer and music designer and costume designer.