KARACHI: Foreign and local theatre performers commemorated Daniel Pearl World Music Day at the Arts Council here on Sunday.
The theatre troupe performed jazz and rap in a musical revue titled "Broadway Bridges," which made its way to the city under the auspices of the US Consulate.
Broadway Bridges showcased cutting-edge performances, featuring award-winning trainer and Broadway coach Peter Thoresen, Rhyn McLemore, classical pianist John Ferguson, and seven local nominees who joined them on stage for the cabaret.
The segment "Seasons of Love" featured classical pieces from the 1950s, with performers presenting short musical scenes inspired by The Sound of Music, Sondheim, Xanders, Disney shows, and Hamilton songs.
Speaking to the gathering at the Arts Council, US Consul General Grace Shelton honoured Daniel Pearl’s belief that music can bring people together and said his passion guided his life and work.
“Music and culture reveal a common humanity and allow us to celebrate aspirations to live together in peace and harmony. They bring people together. Tonight we celebrate the legacy of another music fan and a talented musician of his own, Daniel Pearl.”
The Consul General also praised emerging local art and the city's creative momentum, including the recent Karachi Biennale 2017.
“The fact that we are all here tonight to enjoy music shows the enduring power of art in the city. It is wonderful that we can enjoy local gallery such as this evening of music theatre together in Karachi.”
President Arts Council of Pakistan Mohammad Ahmed Shah said he looks forward to events where Pakistan and the United States collaborate to produce art and entertainment that promote peace and counter misconceptions about music and culture.
He appreciated the strong and collaborative relationship the Arts Council holds with American artists, whether through theatre festivals, creative workshops, dance programmes or music training.
“I have always believed in cultivating peaceful ties and maintaining harmony between both countries. I am very positive that this has proved to be a magical opportunity for cultural exchange and for sharing the artistic abilities of both nations,” he remarked.
