Original works and adaptations celebrating Bengali theatre have been put together by writers for this year’s season of Bangla drama in London’s East End.

The annual festival organised by Tower Hamlets Council shows new writing as well as interpretations of old favourites chronicling the Bengali community across centuries and continents.

It has attracted a record number of submissions this year, including monologues, ensemble drama, dance and song. Themes include family dynamics, East and West ideals, mental health and conservation.

Judges have chosen 10 works which get their premieres at Whitechapel’s Brady arts centre in Hanbury Street from November 3 to 25 with two performances also planned at Bethnal Green’s Rich Mix arts centre. The festival also includes an exhibition and seminars on Bengali art.