Pakistan Theatre Festival concludes after a month

CM praises ACP's role in promoting cultural diplomacy via theatre

KARACHI:

The 30-day Pakistan Theatre Festival organised by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi came to a grand end on Sunday.

Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar gave awards to the directors of the plays that went on stage in the Pakistan Theatre Festival.

Seven groups from foreign countries performed at the festival which is commendable, "I hope that the artists from foreign countries will have seen a positive and bright face of Pakistan."

Caretaker Chief Minister, (Retd) Justice Maqbool Baqar, has lauded the commitment of Arts Council of Pakistan (ACP) Karachi to provide the public with opportunities to reclaim public spaces through cultural events.

He emphasised that this commitment extends beyond the festival, urging people from across Pakistan to participate in various cultural events throughout the year.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of Pakistan Theatre Festival, organised by the Arts Council of Pakistan, he extended his congratulations to the directors and artists who participated in this grand theatrical journey, featuring seven international troupes alongside numerous national theatre groups. "It brings me great joy to note that during their time here, people from diverse nations had the opportunity to witness the vibrant and hospitable side of Pakistan," he remarked. Highlighting the Arts Council's role in facilitating the participation of these international groups and engaging with various consulates, Baqar stressed the importance of peaceful cultural diplomacy.

He underlined the festival's global significance, especially in the face of numerous societal challenges.

The theatre festival, with its diverse and thought-provoking performances, serves as a platform for expressing societal concerns," he noted.

The chief minister commended the ACP, for providing positive public entertainment during challenging times.

He stated that the Council's commitment to enable people to reclaim public spaces is a year-round endeavour.

While concluding, Baqar reminded the audience of the transformative power of art and its ability to convey messages that resonate deeply.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, October 9^th, 2023.