Re-emergence of Aladdin on Karachi’s stage

Quest of the fiction hero is a spicy delight for schoolchildren

KARACHI:

The National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) is currently hosting a triumphant 12-day Children's Theatre Festival that offers a delightful retrospective of NAPA Repertory Theatre's earlier productions for young audiences.

In the enchanting classic "Aladdin," masterful theatre director Uzma Sabeen breathes new life into the hero's timeless journey, infusing it with an invigorating blend of unexpected twists and turns to fully engage the hearts and minds of our young spectators.

The script, thoughtfully crafted to encompass all the essential elements of storytelling, is peppered with an extra dash of magic that continues to enchant and captivate the imagination of our budding connoisseurs.

"The response has been nothing short of spectacular. We're playing to packed houses and anticipate this fervor will endure until the curtain falls on September 22nd," Sabeen enthusiastically shared with The Express Tribune.

NAPA's auditorium, boasting a capacity of 210 seats, is consistently brimming with eager patrons. The key to this resounding success lies in the show's timing, designed to fit snugly into school hours, allowing children to flock to the theatre in cheerful groups, as Sabeen pointed out.

"The script, a creation originally penned by the esteemed writer Shoaib Hashmi, stands as a testament to his genius. This production is our heartfelt homage to his enduring legacy," she added.

Reflecting on the art of crafting scripts for children's theatre, Sabeen remarked, "Directing a children's play is an art that stands on its own. It demands a deep understanding of the young psyche. Children harbor no preconceived notions or biases."

She continued, her eyes twinkling with passion, "Their reactions are as genuine as they are spontaneous. Witnessing their boundless enthusiasm as they eagerly rush from their school buses towards the theatre is a testament to their unbridled energy and an evergreen source of inspiration for us." Sabeen, an acclaimed lighting director herself, explained her ardor for children's theatre, saying, "I have always aspired to create meaningful entertainment options for children, especially in Urdu - a niche that remains largely underserved in contemporary times. I realised that there was a void in theatre productions tailored for young audiences, and I decided to step up to the challenge."

The musical tapestry of "Aladdin" is woven together by the legendary musician Arshad Mahmud, while the cast comprises NAPA graduates. The play boasts an approximately one-hour runtime and is accessible to audiences of all ages.

With a decade of experience, Sabeen has played a pivotal role in producing a captivating series of plays expressly designed for children. Her repertoire includes well-received productions such as "Alibaba Chalees Chor," "Sinbad," and "Sultan."

Published in The Express Tribune, September 18^th, 2023.