Ajoka’s new play to pay tribute to Asma Jahangir

LAHORE: Ajoka is working on its new play which is to premiere on October 19 at Alhamra. Written and directed by Shahid Nadeem, the play is a tribute to the iconic human rights campaigner Asma Jahangir, specially written for the Asma Jahangir conference 2019 in collaboration with legal aid group AGHS.

“Saira aur Maira”, the play is based on true stories of some historic cases handled by Asma Jahangir. Most of the leading actors have been groomed by Ajoka’s acting classes and they will perform in a major play for the first time.

Despite its grim subject, “Saira aur Maira” is a celebration of courage and conviction of the women fighting against unjust patriarchal system. The play will be presented with theatrical embellishment, music, good lighting and the play has a strong social and emotional impact. Striking choreography and heartwarming music are important element of the production.

Shahid Nadeem, while talking about the new production, said that Asma Jahangir was a courageous lady and human rights lawyer who always raised her voice for oppressed segments of the society. Ajoka’s play “Saira aur Maira” highlights her struggle as human rights lawyer by unfolding real life stories for which Asma received criticism and appreciation at the same time. Asma received landmark verdicts against honour killings from the court which was a great victory for the human right movement in Pakistan.

‘Alhamra playing role in promoting art, culture’: Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts is an exemplary teaching and learning institute for the students of arts, because LAC guarantees the bright future of youth in the field of music, dance, melody, float, guitar, harmonium, violin, sitar and other field of arts. Alhamra provides youth with advanced requirements for learning music and singing. Alhamra plays a key role in the promotion of art and culture, said Lahore Arts Council Executive Director Ather Ali Khan.

Alhamra is productive as lots of people specially our youth took part in these classes and get groomed their personalities under the supervision of our highly professional teachers, he said and added: We are lucky as our youth are blessed with great talent in the fields of art and music. Alhamra arranged different evenings for students of Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts to showcase their hidden talent to the public so our young generation could be promoted. LAC’s basic aim is to provide education and training to our youth in various fields of arts where special attention is being given to the quality environment and discipline for the students.