A Day of Artistic Exploration and Cultural Reflection
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over Lahore’s artistic skyline, the Alhamra Arts Council buzzed with life on the third day of the Punjab Mass International Theatre Festival 2025. This event is not just a celebration of performance but a redefinition of cultural dialogue through the universal language of theatre.
Pantomime Workshop: A New Language of Expression
The day kicked off with a pantomime workshop titled “Crossing the Boundaries of Languages – Telling Stories with the Art of Pantomime,” led by renowned German artist Christian H. Schroter at Adbi Baithak, Alhamra the Mall. This session was a gateway for young students and emerging performers into a world where silence speaks louder than words. Through this workshop, participants discovered how every gesture can convey deep meaning, making pantomime a universal language that transcends borders.
Schroter emphasized the power of body language in storytelling, showcasing how emotions and expressions can shape narratives without the need for words. The experience was transformative for many, offering them their first step toward mastering this unique form of communication.
Panel Discussion: Theatre as a Catalyst for Social Change
In the afternoon, the festival hosted a panel discussion titled “Social Change Through Theatre and Its Challenges.” Featuring esteemed theatre figures Naveed Shahzad and Dr. Khalid Butt, the conversation was moderated by Prof. Dr. Ahmad Bilal. The discussion delved into the role of theatre in provoking thought, challenging injustice, and inspiring reform.
Naveed Shahzad highlighted the importance of theatre in imagining solutions to societal problems and envisioning a better future. He stressed that theatre is not just about highlighting issues but also about fostering hope and collective responsibility.
Dr. Khalid Butt reflected on the visceral impact of theatre, stating, “The stage transforms what we hear into what we see, Shuneedan ki baad maanaand deedan.” This sentiment resonated with the audience, reinforcing the idea that every performance serves as a mirror to society, prompting introspection and change.
Evening Performances: A Celebration of Human Connection
As night fell, the French theatre company La Volga captivated audiences with their poetic masterpiece “Monsieur et Madame O.” This visually enchanting performance combined mime and movement to tell the tender and humorous story of a couple navigating the rhythm of daily life. The delicate choreography, whimsical gestures, and emotional depth left the audience in awe, celebrating the universal heartbeat of theatre.
Additionally, Maas Foundation’s production “Permasher Singh” brought forth a deeply human narrative of resilience and compassion. The play explored themes of loss, loyalty, and shared destiny, reaffirming theatre’s role as a mirror to humanity’s conscience. The Alhamra courtyard transformed into a vibrant cultural fairground, with food stalls, folk music corners, and art displays keeping the festival spirit alive well into the night.
Executive Director’s Vision: Theatre as the Conscience of Civilization
Mahboob Alam, the Executive Director of Alhamra, shared his reflections on the significance of theatre. He described it as more than an art form, emphasizing its role as the conscience of a civilization. According to Alam, theatre enables society to learn, feel, and heal together. Alhamra remains committed to nurturing this dialogue where creativity and awareness coexist.
Upcoming Events: A Journey of Discovery
Looking ahead, October 13 promises another day filled with captivating performances. The GC Dramatic Club and Theatre Republic Pakistan will present “Tu Kon?” while Greece’s Terr Arte brings “Ekthesis” to the stage. Additionally, AKS Theatre from Pakistan will showcase “Junoon.” A thought-provoking panel discussion on “Society and Performing Arts” will feature renowned intellectuals Asghar Nadeem Syed, Naveed Shahzad, and Adeel Hashmi, exploring how art shapes the collective human narrative.
Conclusion: A Movement of Empathy and Art
The Punjab Mass International Theatre Festival continues at Alhamra until October 15, celebrating the transformative power of theatre. It is a space where empathy becomes art, and art becomes a movement. Through this festival, the essence of theatre is not only preserved but also redefined, inviting everyone to partake in the universal language of expression and connection.