Dhaka, June 10 -- Shilpakala Academy's sweeping control over two-thirds of the National Theatre Hall's monthly slots is fuelling discontent among theatre workers who say it leaves little room for independent productions.

Even members of the Shilpakala Academy Executive Council are calling for more transparency in auditorium bookings, suggesting the term "reserved" begets a sense of "miscommunication."

Dhaka's theatre culture has long revolved around the academy, with more than 80 theatre groups utilising its three auditoriums for performances.

The Neelima Ibrahim Auditorium under Bangladesh Mohila Samity on Bailey Road also remains an important venue.

Denying the allegations of keeping the auditorium "reserved", the Shilpakala Academy...