Urdu version of lauded play comes to capital

The Chand Nagar Cultural Centre is proud to announce the first-ever Pakistani adaptation of a Pulitzer Prize-winning stage play, "Doubt: A Parable", which is being performed on July 26 and 27 at the Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai Auditorium in Islamabad.

This production is the Urdu translation of the play by John Patrick Shanley, translated by the director and theatre educator Imran Iftikhar and Adil Yousaf. Iftikhar expressed his excitement and gratitude, for being granted permission to adapt and stage this masterpiece. "I'm sharing this news with immense pride and gratitude that I've been formally granted permission by John Patrick Shanley — the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and Academy Award-winning screenwriter — to translate, adapt and stage his masterpiece theatre play, Doubt: A Parable, for the Islamabad audience in Urdu," he shared.

The play, "Doubt: A Parable", was written by American playwright John Patrick Shanley in 2004. It was adapted into a mystery thriller film titled "Doubt" in 2008, starring Hollywood's renowned actress Meryl Streep. The film received critical acclaim and showcased the powerful story and themes of the play.

"Doubt: A Parable" explores the complexities of human nature, delving into themes of faith, doubt, power and morality. Set in a small-town school in Punjab, the play raises questions about truth, silence and the grey areas in between. With its suspenseful plot and impactful characters, this production promises to be a thought-provoking experience for the audience.

Imran Iftikhar further added, "This is not just a milestone for me as a director and translator but a historic moment for Pakistani theatre. To my knowledge, this is the first time a Pulitzer Prize-winning play is being officially produced in Pakistan. Bringing this globally acclaimed work to our local stage is a huge responsibility — and an opportunity to elevate the standards of theatre productions in the region." He hopes that "this production will open new doors for international theatre in Pakistan and spark critical conversations about ethics, education and truth."

Chand Nagar Cultural Centre is dedicated to telling bold, thought-provoking, and relevant stories through theatre and arts in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The play is translated into Urdu by Adil Yousaf, directed by Imran Iftikhar and features a cast of young theatre actors from the twin cities. "Doubt: A Parable" is being brought to life by Chand Nagar Cultural Centre, with the aim of creating a platform for meaningful storytelling and cultural exchange.