Norwegian artist reaffirms support for Palestine

Norwegian actor, director, and scriptwriter Karen Hauge returned to Pakistan to perform her theatrical piece 'Dream Girl' at the World Culture Festival, held at the Arts Council of Pakistan in Karachi.

The performance, described as humorous yet layered, explored identity and expression through satire and visual contrast.

Speaking about her artistic approach, Hauge said, "I do a lot of comedy and cabaret back home. I enjoy using grand costumes not just for spectacle, but as a contrast that helps communicate the deeper message of the performance."

Hauge said she felt a strong connection with the Pakistani audience during the show. "The audience was very responsive and warm. I wanted it to feel like us together — not me on stage and them in the seats — and I think we achieved that," she said.

This marked Hauge's second appearance at the festival. Last year, she met a group of artists from Palestine, which later led to a collaboration. "One of the actors I met here worked with me in Norway for three months this summer. I will be travelling to Palestine in January and February. These meeting points are important — they allow us to create together," she noted.

Speaking about the ongoing situation in Gaza, she expressed deep concern. "It is devastating what is happening in Palestine. We are all seeing it in real time on our phones, yet the world remains silent. It is painful to witness."

Commenting on the political dimensions of the conflict, Hauge said, "The situation in Palestine and Gaza is also supported by us in the West. Israel would not be able to continue this without the political and financial support it receives from Western countries. That is important to acknowledge."

Highlighting the situation in the West Bank, she says, "In the West Bank, where Hamas does not even exist, there is still occupation, walls being built, and people being treated in a terrible way."

Reflecting on the broader picture, she said, "To me, it felt like a temporary illusion ."

Hauge also spoke warmly about her experience in Pakistan. "People here are very kind, and the culture is rich. I love the food — especially biryani," she said with a smile. On Pakistani music and the evolving creative scene, she added, "The music here is very collaborative and full of new energy. It's exciting to witness."