Lahore-based performing arts group Ajoka Theatre will be holding its first theatre festival dedicated to its founder and artistic director, Madeeha Gohar, who died earlier this year.
Titled “Madeeha Gauhar Theatre Festival”, the event will be held from September 27 to September 29 at Alhamra Hall, Lahore.
During the festival, three of Gauhar’s popular plays – Kala Maida Bhes, Lo Phir Basant Ayee and Bullah – that highlighted social evils will be presented.
The three plays not only proved her directorial genius but are also considered fine examples of socially meaningful, high-quality entertainment.
The event will include a documentary on Gauhar’s journey: she and her husband, Shahid Nadeem, laid the foundation for Ajoka Theatre and devoted their lives to objective and message-oriented theatre.
Apart from that, the three-day theatre festival will feature a dance tribute by renowned choreographer Wahab Shah, which will be followed by a pictorial exhibition of Gauhar’s many works throughout her career.
Gauhar is credited with having directed over three dozen plays in her 34-year-long career that have been performed nationally and internationally, including in India, Bangladesh, the UK, the US, Egypt, and Iran.
Gauhar was awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz in 2003 by the Pakistan government in recognition of her services and contribution to the field of culture and performing arts.
In 2006, she became the first Pakistani to be honoured with the prestigious Prince Claus Award for her leadership of Ajoka.
Some of her famous plays include Kabeera Khara Bazaar Mai, Kaun Banega Badshah, Kaun Hai Yeh Gustakh, Mera Rang De Basanti Chola, Shehar-e-Afsos, and Dekh Tamasha Chalta Ban.
Madeeha Gauhar: passed away earlier this year.
