‘Heer Ranjha’ to be seen on stage starting September 7

Bringing back a gem such as ‘Heer Ranjha’ to the theatre stage is a small step towards rekindling people’s interest in classic Urdu literature. These stories and writers remain our assets and it is unfortunate that the younger generation largely remains unaware of their importance.

With this context, Zain Ahmed, artistic director of the National Academy of Performing Arts Repertory Theatre, announced his latest presentation, an Urdu musical version of ‘Heer Ranjha’, to be staged in three cities starting from Karachi on September 7.

The Urdu musical, based on the popular folklore by Indian writer Kaifi Azmi and adapted to suit local tastes, would mark the return to theatre of actress Sanam Saeed as Heer, while Napa graduate Hasan Raza has been cast as Ranjha.

The production is also for a good cause – education in this instance – as all proceeds would go to The Citizens Foundation (TCF). “TCF is a leading name in the social sector and they are, literally, transforming the lives of deserving children. It would be an honour for us to help out in the cause,” said Ahmed at a presser held last week.

He said the script had been penned in the form of rhythmic dialogues and the play would have eight to nine songs. The music director for the play is Nigel Bobby, who is also a Napa graduate.

Sanam Saeed, now a leading lady on the silver screen, had started off from theatre and has been part of some of the most successful musical stage productions of Pakistan. She too spoke at the presser and shared her excitement for the project which would also see her lending vocals to some of the songs.

Aside from Saeed and Raza, the production boasts a stellar cast that includes industry veterans Arshad Mahmud and Samina Ahmed. ‘Heer Ranjha’ will be staged in Karachi from September 7 to September 11; in Lahore from September 13 to September 14; and in Faisalabad from September 16 to September 17.