Dhaka has recently transformed into a metropolitan crawling with cafes and eateries in every nook and cranny. In a city that doesn’t offer much in terms of recreation and community spaces dedicated to the youth; the restaurants have, rather unintentionally, turned into hangout spots. 

However, regularly splurging on food that’s often prepared in substandard environments; just to be able to spend some time with your friends gets tiring very fast. 

For a refreshing break from this repetitive routine, here are a few places in Dhaka that can be your next pick for a good time without breaking the bank.

Alliance Française de Dhaka (Dhanmondi, Gulshan)

Mainly a French language and cultural center, Alliance Française is a top notch destination for anyone interested in art, music, and films. In fact, the exhibitions, film screenings, musical events, and theater shows hosted by AFD are absolutely free of charge. 

They regularly arrange exhibitions that uphold carefully curated works from local and international artists; alongside musical events and film screenings that explore alternate genres of music (Jazz, Classical) and films (Documentaries, Short Films). 

AFD also frequently collaborates with Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy to arrange extraordinary theater shows. Some of their best collaborations till date include Wolfed Down— a gothic-horror rendition of Red Riding Hood, and Songs of Hawkers—a comedy about the lives of Dhaka’s street hawkers. Attendance only requires an advance seat booking via email, and the entry is often cost-free. 

Coupled with the quiet crowds and soulful ambience of the venue itself, the events hosted by Alliance Francaise can be your next destination. You’ll only need to pay for the rickshaw fare back and fro!

The Attention Network (Karwan Bazar)

The Attention Network is a community studio that hosts a range of events and activities that cost way less than what you’d spend trying to eat at a passable restaurant with your friends. 

Film Screenings that include all your favorites from Howl’s Moving Castle to Paaglu, Karaoke Sessions where you can sing your heart out with friends and strangers alike, Community Game Nights that feature Squid Game themed escapades, or even Iftaar/Sehri circles in Ramadan; TAN has everything. 

Despite being a community studio, their offerings equally extend to anyone who wants to have a good time by themselves. You can occupy yourself with some art therapy through journaling sessions and sneaker painting workshops; or use their open workspace for the whole day using a day-pass. 

Usually, the ticket prices range from Tk300-500 for film screenings, karaoke nights, and game nights. It may be slightly higher for day-long events on special occasions like Pohela Boishakh; but is well worth the value considering the volume of activities offered in a comfortable atmosphere. 

TAN’s events are so detail-oriented and well-executed that ultimately their goal of bringing people together feels very organic as a participant. Even if you come alone, you’ll likely leave having made some lovely acquaintances.

Open Space Theater shows

Open Space Theater, despite being comparatively new to the theater scene in Dhaka, has been making waves owing to their fantastic theatrical renditions of well-loved stories.

The productions are delightfully original as they unhesitantly explore different genres. The troop has produced shows based on absolute classics like Kurosawa’s Rashomon, Reginald Rose’s 12 Angry Men, and Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. However, they have worked equally hard on productions of contemporary favourites like Roald Dahl’s Matilda!

OST offers incredible student discounts on show tickets. You can avail tickets for any show for 300 BDT using a valid student ID. They usually perform in Shilpakala Academy’s Studio Theater Hall, and DU Natmandal.

The crew is a delightful blend of both emerging and veteran thespians whose dedication to the craft is palpable as you’re watching. So whether you’re a seasoned theater lover, or simply want to explore the vibrant theater scene in Dhaka, Open Space Theater’s shows may just be perfect for you.

Although not a long list, the aforementioned places curate experiences that will undoubtedly satisfy the art/film/theater nerd inside you while fostering community within a safe space that’s financially affordable for a younger crowd. So don’t forget to take a different route the next time you automatically think of going to a restaurant while making plans!