Theatre industry faces financial crisis amid protests

Asian Cultural Awards, Sufi nights continue to serve as vibrant platforms

LAHORE:

Punjab's cultural sector is undergoing a transformative phase marked by reforms, challenges, and celebrations. While the government strives to regulate and enhance theatre performances, financial instability due to political unrest looms large over the creative community.

Nonetheless, cultural events like the Asian Cultural Awards and Sufi Nights continue to serve as vibrant platforms, fostering artistic traditions and offering hope to artists and audiences alike.

With new leadership and ongoing initiatives, the future of Punjab's cultural landscape looks promising, aiming for inclusivity and refinement.

In a bid to address the rising concerns over inappropriate practices in theatres, the Punjab Arts Council has announced stricter monitoring mechanisms.

Speaking to cultural reporters, Executive Director Tanveer Majid outlined plans for rigorous oversight of theatre productions across the province.

Artistes and producers found engaging in unethical practices such as vulgar dances or suggestive dialogues will face heavy penalties.

Majid emphasised that shutting down theatres is not a sustainable solution; instead, adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) will help create a healthier theatrical environment.

In addition to enforcement, the Council is committed to promoting artistic talent.

Plans are underway to rejuvenate the Bagh-e-Jinnah Open-Air Theatre, offering a high-quality venue for meaningful and sophisticated performances. Majid reiterated the Council's dedication to nurturing creativity and ensuring that theatre remains a source of cultural enrichment for audiences.

However, the theatre industry in Punjab is grappling with a severe financial crisis triggered by ongoing political disruptions, including protests and road blockades.

Chairman of the Punjab Theatre Association, Qaiser Sanaullah Khan, has called on the government to address the Rs7 million losses incurred during these upheavals.

He revealed that theatres in Lahore alone have suffered losses of Rs2 million per venue, while those in smaller cities faced losses of Rs1 million each.

Sanaullah has urged the government to provide financial aid and waive script censorship fees for six months to help the sector recover. With approximately 15,000 people depending on the theatre industry for their livelihoods, the need for immediate intervention is critical.

Amid these challenges, cultural celebrations continue to thrive, bringing much-needed vibrancy to the arts scene.

The Asian Cultural Awards Ceremony at the Punjab Institute of Language, Art, and Culture was a colourful event that attracted actors, singers, and art enthusiasts.

A highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing Sufi Night, where performances by artists like Gulab left the audience spellbound. Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan graced the occasion as the guest of honor, distributing awards to talented individuals for their contributions to culture and entertainment.

The Alhamra Open-Air Theatre also hosted a successful Sufi Night in collaboration with the Punjab Arts Council and Art & Culture Forum. Renowned qawwal Nadeem Jameel Khan and other performers delivered soul-stirring renditions of Sufi Kalaam, captivating a diverse audience. The event was free, encouraging participation from all walks of life and celebrating Punjab's rich Sufi heritage.

In administrative developments, Syed Tauqeer Haider Kazmi has been appointed Executive Director of the Lahore Arts Council, while Tanveer Majid now leads the Punjab Arts Council.