Mohanlal to launch an arts centre

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal will soon launch a performing arts centre named 'JT Pac' (Jose Thomas Performing Arts Centre) in Kochi in association with Jose Thomas, businessman and chairman of the Kerala-based Choice group, to showcase and preserve the varied and unique art forms of Kerala, including music, dance, theatre and folk art. The centre is situated near the Tripunithura Choice School campus.

"The state-of-the art centre is designed to be an 'intellectual crucible' that can shape the sensibilities of the public, set benchmarks in artistic standards and influence the very culture of art appreciation. The centre will play a lead role in making Kerala the centre stage of world class theatre, dance and folk art performances," Mohanlal, also the chairman of the centre, was quoted as saying. The centre also has plans to launch its own productions, including musicals, theatre and dances directed by the world's leading artistes, he added.

About 75% of the work has been completed and JT Pac is expected to be ready by February or early March, Jose Thomas said, adding that a three-month calendar of performances is also getting ready. The centre will feature music, folk art and theatre performances from around the world every weekend. However, local art forms will be given prime importance. JT Pac will conduct training programmes and workshops led by maestros from around the world.

About 20 advisers from the field of arts, sports and literature will form the Board of Directors. Efforts are also on to tie up with five star hotels to bring tourists to view the performances. It is also said that the board has plans to set up similar centres at Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode.