The company had intended to start the venture in Delhi, but could not get permission. The first plays, therefore, will be performed in Gurgaon, starting anytime between end-August and mid-September.

Some of Delhi’s well-known theatre groups, like Asmita Theatre, Natsamrat, Pierrot’s Troupe, have agreed to be part of the venture. An arena in PVR’s Gurgaon multiplex is being prepared for theatre productions.

The theatre community is ambivalent about the impending move.

“The idea in principle is not bad,” says Khilona’s VK. “Whenever a new area comes up, there is no place for theatre.” But the ride, he warns, may not be smooth for PVR. “Massive infrastructure is required for conducting proper theatre. Developing it may not be financially viable and there is a possibility that it may turn out to be a fiasco.”

Dr Saeed Alam of Pierrot’s Troupe feels it is an encouraging step. His acclaimed production, Ghalib in New Delhi, will be one of the first plays to be performed at the multiplex in Gurgaon. Fully supportive of the venture, he still sounds a note of caution. “An auditorium must be devoted for live performances and plays must be performed regularly. Plays must be engaging in the true tradition of theatre, not just money-making ventures.”

Arvind Gaur of Asmita Theatre hopes this may help solve the acute shortage of theatre halls in the city. “A recent play of mine was a hit. But I have to wait for January to perform it again, as there is no slot available,” he says. “This may go some way in alleviating this shortage.”

Then there are those like Actone Art Group’s NK Sharma, who refused PVR’s advances. “They contacted me, but I’m not interested in just any sort of theatre,” he says. “Theatre has different requirements and there must be a serious attitude towards such concerns.”

Ashish Ghosh from Anant, who is part of the venture, believes this will prove a shot in the arm for theatre in NCR. “The policy-making part has been completed and only the details need to be ironed out,” he says. “The idea is to start with popular plays, and then move on to the next level.”

The logistics of the project are still being worked out. This includes converting the cinema hall into a theatre, deciding on ticket rates and other technical issues.