An insider at Karachi - The Musical rehearsals

The story of boxing in Lyari inspired director Nida Butt to work on Karachi - Haar na Maano

Inspired by the boxing fever that has engulfed Karachi’s district of Lyari, ‘Karachi- Haar na Mano’ is Pakistan’s first musical with an original score and script. 

“The inspiration comes simply from watching a television report on boxing in Lyari,” said Nida Butt, the director, choreographer and co-producer.

“I was quiet surprised to find that we have such a rich boxing history and that boxing is a sport that Pakistan has forgotten, but Lyari hasn’t forgotten.”

The story follows the aspirations of a young wannabe boxer traveling from Multan in search of Pakistan’s best coach. His search leads him to Karachi troubled district of Lyari.

Butt is the founder of Music Art Dance School in Karachi and has been producing musicals since 2008. This is her fourth commercial musical; her past plays include Chicago, Mamma Mia and the Producers.

Her husband Hamza Jafri is the musical director and composer for the play; it is the first time the duo has attempted working with an original score.

 “We have recorded 12 original songs for this, volume one will be released on opening night,” he said.

Karachi - The Musical runs from Saturday October 22 till November 13. Tickets are available at McDonalds or MAD school or online.