A drama production titled “The Light at Chozuba,” under the Production Traditional Folk Theatre Workshop (Children’s Theatre), has been completed under the sponsorship of the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) Dimapur, Government of India, and the Art & Culture Department, Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with Nagaland Theological College, Chozuba.
The drama is inspired by the earliest accounts of the arrival of Christianity in Chozuba village and highlights a significant period of religious and cultural transformation in the region. The production was conceptualized with the primary objective of educating the younger generation and the wider public on how Christianity first emerged in Chozuba.
It also aims to provide a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage, tribal identity, and ancestral traditions that shaped the early mission era. Through dramatization, it portrays the sacrifices, challenges, and achievements of the early missionaries and local pioneers who embraced the Gospel despite opposition and uncertainty.
The drama seeks to preserve and retell the historical journey of the first evangelists who brought Christianity to Chozuba, helping viewers appreciate the struggles faced by early converts, including social rejection, cultural conflicts, and spiritual awakening.
The inaugural program was held on November 10 at the campus of Nagaland Theological College, Chozuba, and was graced by Teisovikuolie Therie, Deputy Director of the Art & Culture Department, Government of Nagaland. In his address, Therie emphasized the importance of documenting local history and promoting cultural expression through performing arts. He encouraged participants to use drama as a medium to express identity, faith, and community experiences. He also highlighted various schemes and opportunities offered by the Art & Culture Department and the NEZCC to support talented youth across Nagaland and the Northeast.
The drama production entered its active phase from November 11 to 14, 2025, during which two major scenes were recorded each day. Over 20 participants took part, including actors, a narrator, technical assistants, and production helpers. All participants demonstrated dedication and discipline, ensuring each scene authentically portrayed historical events.
Key scenes include the arrival of the early missionaries, the commissioning of the first two evangelists for Chozuba by Rev. Rivensburg, community resistance to the new faith, the perseverance of the evangelists as they travelled through the village sharing the Gospel, and the establishment of the first church at Chozuba.
To maintain authenticity, the team travelled to interior parts of Chozuba village, selecting locations that still contain remnants of traditional wooden houses, adding depth and cultural richness to the visuals.
The workshop and drama production concluded on November 15, 2025, with a formal closing ceremony attended by the Principal of Nagaland Theological College, Vekudu Lohe.