Independence Day celebrations to radiate artistic splendour

Alhamra plans array of programmes including theatre performances


ASGHAR SALEEMI August 10, 2023
A boy walks past a Pakistani flag displayed for sale ahead of Pakistan's Independence Day. PHOTO: REUTERS/FILE

LAHORE:

The art community has decided to celebrate Independence Day in a comprehensive manner. Not only will there be colorful programmes to mark this joyful occasion, but all of the city's cultural buildings, including Alhamra, will also be adorned with decorations.

The Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts remains committed to nurturing the world of fine arts, with its ongoing efforts in this direction. During the summer camp, a theatre class, led by experienced teacher Rukhsana Khan, is being offered. As a culmination of the summer camp, a stage performance will be presented, featuring both the theatre class and Kathak.

Previously, Alhamra Arts Council celebrated Kashmir Exploitation Day as a gesture of solidarity with the people of Kashmir. A photo exhibition showcased the optimistic aspirations of Kashmiri people through the artworks of young painters.

At Alhamra, artists extended their support to Kashmiris through musical expressions as well. Muhammad Saleem Sagar, Executive Director of Alhamra, lauded the heartfelt sentiments expressed by the artists.

He emphasised that the voices of Kashmiris have been eloquently represented, and the dawn of freedom will inevitably rise for them as they forge their path with unwavering determination.

The closing ceremony of the drawing summer camp took place at Alhamra Cultural Complex Gaddafi Stadium. Noted cartoonist Javed Iqbal distributed certificates and gifts to the participating children, applauding Alhamra's commendable initiative in nurturing young talents. The summer camp, orchestrated by the Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts, was a concerted effort to provide artistic training to children.

The children were guided by experienced teachers, including Exhibition Officer Babar Mustafa and Muhammad Arif, among others.

Khana Farhang Iran Lahore hosted an art exhibition centered around Muharram-themed artworks by artist Fatima Naseem.

The exhibition was inaugurated by DG Khana Farhang Jafar Ronas and former Executive Director of Al Hamra, Farhat Jabeen.

Khana Farhang Islamic Republic of Iran DG Jafar Ronas emphasised in his address that art transcends language barriers and unites nations. Farhat Jabeen commended Khana Farhang's dedication to popularizing the art of calligraphy during her remarks at the exhibition's opening.

During Muharram, the series of majlis at artists' homes continues.

Shahida Mini expressed the significance of Muharram, highlighting the virtues of patience, sacrifice, and endurance, exemplified by Hazrat Imam Hussain's martyrdom in Karbala.

Qaiser Sanaullah Khan, Chairman of Punjab Artist Producer Theaters Association, met with Advisor to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Khawaja Ahmed Hassan.

Discussions revolved around issues pertaining to the theater industry and artistes. Khawaja Ahmad Hassan commended Qaiser Sanaullah Khan's dedicated efforts in promoting theater.

Stage actress Khushboo urged the prime minister and Caretaker Punjab chief minister to activate institutions addressing cybercrime. Such activation, she believes, can curtail the lawlessness that has taken root in society. During a press conference alongside fellow showbiz personalities, she pointed out the misuse of social media by certain individuals for malicious purposes.

She called upon the government to take measures against such actions, ensuring that citizens are spared from similar incidents in the future.

The Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts continues its relentless journey in fostering the realm of fine arts. The summer camp offered a theatre class instructed by the experienced Rukhsana Khan, complemented by Kathak training.

Culminating in a stage performance at the end of the camp, this showcase will be a part of the Independence Day celebrations.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 10th, 2023.

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