LAHORE: The Ajoka Dosti International Theatre Festival entered its seventh day at the Alhamra Arts Council, marked by a rich blend of panel discussions, performances, workshops and cultural showcases.

The day began with a panel discussion featuring theatre experts. Moderated by Shahid Nadeem, the panel included Hara Yu Hai from China, Monica Hunken and Leah Bachar from the USA, Hendra from Indonesia, Pablo Rojas from Spain, Diana Costa from Italy and Sheema Kermani from Pakistan.

Speakers emphasised the vital role of theatre in fostering peace and hope, sharing their unique experiences and perspectives on how the performing arts could bridge cultural divides and promote understanding.

Following the panel discussion, audiences were treated to a vibrant cultural string show in the Alhamra Hall 1. This performance featured traditional music that celebrated the region’s rich artistic heritage and added a lively touch to the day’s proceedings.

A key highlight of the day was the ‘Signal’ workshop production, directed by US artistes Monica Hunken and Leah Bachar from the Al Límite Collective. This four-day workshop, involving young Pakistani women, culminated in an immersive theatrical experience featuring an all-girls cast of students from the Kinnaird College and Lahore College for Women. The production investigated the global struggle for women’s rights, incorporating physical and vocal exercises, experimental storytelling and collective creativity.

The evening continued with a delightful dance performance by Sheema Kermani, captivating the audience with her expressive storytelling through dance. This was followed by powerful dramatic extracts from Shahid Nadeem’s celebrated play ‘Bulha’, performed by artistes from Ajoka and Amritsar-based Manch Rangmanch. These performances celebrated the enduring legacy of Bulleh Shah and highlighted themes of unity and cross-border friendship.

Italian visual comedy specialist Paolo Avanteno also conducted a workshop at the National College of Arts (NCA), offering participants valuable insights into the art of visual comedy and physical performance.

ART, CULTURE: The Lahore Arts Council will offer programmes based on rich cultural diversity during the current month as it will offer theater, music, talks and discussions on art and culture.

Ajoka’s Dosti theatre festival is the main event at Alhamra under which a theatrical performance Mahrani Jindan will be staged on Saturday (today).

Same day a theatrical production from across the border Trunk Tales will be staged as part of Ajoka Theatre Festival.

On Nov 21, a Pianao concert will be presented in partnership with the embassy of France and French Cultural Center. Same day a book launch will be held by Sofia Baidar.

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2024