Ajoka to stage musical epic 'Charing Cross'

Play is primarily based on the major political and social changes on Pakistani landscape

LAHORE: Ajoka Theatre is welcoming 2018 with a remarkable new play titled Charing Cross, a spectacular musical epic based on the major political and social changes on Pakistani landscape, stated a press release.

PHOTO: PUBLICITY

The play is written by Shahid Nadeem and will premiere in Alhamra Hall on January 30, 2018, continuing until February 1, 2018. Rehearsals are in full swing at Ajoka ‘s Cavalry Ground office. Creative choreographer Wahab Shah has choreographed the dances while music director M Aslam has composed the music. NCA’s Aqeel Kazmi has designed the set.

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Talking about the play, Nadeem said, “Charing Cross remains a symbol of British colonial rule at a junction which is considered the heart of the Lahore. This has become a venue where tumultuous events unfolded, from of 1970s to the turn of century.” He added, “This is a whirl wind tour of the ups and downs of Pakistani history.”

PHOTO: FILE

The play features new talent besides Ajoka’s regular performing troupe. The newcomers were selected through auditions. The play also carries some soul stirring songs and famous poetry written by literary giants of the era.

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Assistant director Nirvaan Nadeem expressed his pleasure at the introduction of new talent in the production. “Ajoka has trained and harnessed new talent over the years and that is why it is called the nursery of good actors,” he said. Ajoka believes in a peace-loving democratic environment and this play is an effort to recollect the memories of various gatherings, processions and rallies associated with the revival of democracy and Lahore’s Mall Road.

PHOTO: PUBLICITY

The cast includes Arshad Durrani, Usman Raaj, Sohail Tariq, Mohammad Qaiser, Muzammil Shabbir, Hina Tariq and Nabeel Butt. The newcomers include Mehreen, Kanwal, Muniba, Fahad, Imran and Asad.

Charing Cross is being presented in collaboration with the Lahore Arts Council and will travel to other cities later.

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