Rumi, as the tragic hero, has given a bold performance in the play. Particularly poignant are sequences such as when he tries to track down the killer, the romantic scene with his beloved Rupobati and the final scene when he meets with his dual personality Aibura.

In his cameo role as the zamindar, Saiful Islam Dipu's performance was highly appreciated. His voice modulation and body language were authentic of an aging lecher. Bratya Amin as Baul and M Ansar Ali as Joytishi (astrologer) also performed well.

But, Sonia Hassan in the role of the central character Rupoboti needs to develop her acting skill. She seemed disoriented and stiff during her performance.

Director Khaled Khan's endeavour deserves plaudits. To give an authentic representation of rural life, he has used different indigenous performing art forms such as palagaan, jatrapala as well as rural games and sports. And his handling of the final sequence when the piper talks with his dual personality is notable.

Ahsan Habib Nasim's music and Anisul Haque Barun's choreography was impressive.

Enamul Karim Nirjhar's suggestive set does not go well with the theme and the mood of the play, which is based on a poverty stricken rural social setting.

Abu Daud Ashrafee's light design is faulty. Besides poor visibility, he has created two zones on the stage, unsuitable to an action-packed play. He needs to fine-tune his design, particularly in the sequences when the fortuneteller sees zamindar's fate in a moonlit night, the piper meets Aibura and others.

Shubochan Natya Sangsad staged the premiere show of Rupobati at the Experimental Theatre Stage on July 28.