There is a shortage of female theatre artists in Pakistan: British director Tessa Walker

British director Tessa Walker says it is imperative for Pakistani govt to lend support to local stage productions

LAHORE:

As an associate director at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Tessa Walker often finds herself conducting training seminars in different countries around the world. This time, her travels have brought her to Pakistan for a workshop organised by Ajoka Theatre. The Lahore-based troupe invited Walker to conduct the seminar for young artists, where she spoke with The Express Tribune and highlighted some of the problems plaguing Pakistan’s theatre circuit today.

“There is a shortage of female artists in the country,” explained Walker, who believes theatre can play a great role in the welfare of  society. “I think women of Pakistan should be encouraged to take up theatre acting as a profession,” she added. According to Walker, there is ample talent in the country that is waiting to be tapped. “I am very impressed by what I have witnessed here. Within limited resources, the youth is doing an incredible job to revive theatre,” said Walker.





Drawing a parallel between Pakistani and Western theatre, Walker concluded that the industry has considerably stronger roots in the West. “We have people writing plays after conducting research on their respective topics – another element I found missing here,” she shared. As a literary associate of the National Theatre of Scotland, Walker proposes the research element to be explored, instead of focusing on clichéd social issues. In this connection, she will be conducting three workshops during her stay, covering acting, writing and direction. “These form the basis of a good play and I am happy that young artists are willing to learn,” claimed Walker. “However, I do feel that there is a need for the Pakistani government to organise such training workshops.”

Walker – who directed A Christmas Carol as part of her work in Birmingham – also sang praises for Madiha Gohar, the founder of Ajoka Theatre, lauding the latter’s contribution. “It is all due to the effort of Ajoka Theater and Madiha that Pakistani plays are gaining immense popularity in other countries as well,” she claimed. “Madiha is a high-committed and energetic lady – the ideal source of inspiration for any woman hoping to set foot in the world of theatre.” Walker also added that she would be more than willing to collaborate with Ajoka on joint theatrical ventures and performances, if ever given the opportunity.



She concluded the conversation on a positive note, encouraging Pakistan’s talented youngsters to come forth and put in an extra effort to improve their skills via research.

Walker also said she would love to visit Lahore once again in the future, and was all praises for the enthralling culture and history of The Walled City.  “The people of the city are very social and supporting, which is necessary for the promotion of cultural activities,” explained Walker. “It is a reality that the presence of film, television and theatre has an important impact on society. It can be a strong tool for social welfare.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 25^th,  2016.

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