Lahore-based performing arts group Ajoka Theatre will be holding its first theatre festival dedicated to its founder and artistic director, Madeeha Gohar, who passed away 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 the social evils of our society 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 three-day event will also include a documentary on Madeeha 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 theatre festival will feature a dance tribute by renowned choreographer Wahab Shah, which will be followed by a pictorial exhibition of Gauhar’s works throughout her career.
Madeeha Gauhar was a tireless activist who produced wonderful plays and did her best for the promotion of theatre. She has the credit of directing over three dozen plays in her 34-year-long career that have been performed nationally and internationally including India, Bangladesh, UK, USA, Egypt and Iran.
Gauhar was awarded 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, Dekh Tamasha Chalta Ban and many more.
