Runa Laila to perform first solo show at Shilpakala

In a career spanning 62 years, Runa Laila's popularity and success across Bangladesh, India and Pakistan have been remarkable. Yet she has never performed a solo show at the Shilpakala Academy, one of the country's most important cultural venues.

That gap is finally set to end. On 18 July, Runa Laila will perform on the main stage of the National Theatre Hall of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy . The news has been confirmed from both the academy and the artiste. She is currently busy with preparations.

It is known that Runa Laila will sing 10 of her popular songs at the event. The programme will also feature storytelling and conversation.

Speaking to the media about the programme, Runa Laila said, "Such an arrangement is important to introduce the long journey of our music, songs and memories to the younger generation of listeners. I will try to perform some of the audience's favourite songs. In my 62-year professional music career, I have performed at Shilpakala Academy no more than two or three times. However, this will be my first solo show. I hope to spend a beautiful and memorable evening with the audience."

Previously, the Shilpakala Academy organised similar programmes featuring legendary artistes Sabina Yasmin and Syed Abdul Hadi .

Incidentally, after her performance at Shilpakala, Runa Laila will have to prepare for her Australia tour later this month.