Ajoka Dosti Festival: A Celebration of Theatre and Women’s Empowerment in Lahore

LAHORE: The Ajoka Dosti International Theatre Festival has reached an exciting milestone as it celebrates its seventh day at the Alhamra Arts Council. This vibrant festival is not just a showcase of theatre; it is a grand celebration of global culture, women’s empowerment, and the power of artistic expression. The festival has become a platform where diverse voices come together to share their stories and experiences, fostering a spirit of unity and understanding among different cultures.

On this particular day, the festival kicked off with a thought-provoking panel discussion that brought together some of the most prominent theatre experts from around the globe. Moderated by Shahid Nadeem of Ajoka, the panel included distinguished speakers such as Hara Yu Hai from China, Monica Hunken and Leah Bachar from the United States, Hendra from Indonesia, Pablo Rojas from Spain, Diana Costa from Italy, and Sheema Kermani from Pakistan. The discussion revolved around the vital role that theatre plays in building peace and hope, emphasizing how the arts can serve as a bridge to connect diverse cultures and promote mutual understanding.

Following this insightful discussion, the atmosphere in the Alhamra Hall 1 foyer transformed into a lively celebration of culture. A vibrant cultural performance showcased traditional music, highlighting the rich artistic heritage of the region and adding a festive touch to the day’s events. One of the standout moments of the festival was the Signal workshop production, directed by Monica Hunken and Leah Bachar from the Al Límite Collective (USA). Over four days, young Pakistani women participated in this immersive workshop, culminating in a powerful theatrical production featuring an all-female cast from Kinnaird College and Lahore College for Women. This performance addressed the global struggle for women’s rights, incorporating physical and vocal exercises, experimental storytelling, and collaborative creativity.

The evening was further enriched by a mesmerizing dance performance by the renowned Sheema Kermani, who captivated the audience with her eloquent storytelling through movement. This was followed by dramatic excerpts from Shahid Nadeem’s acclaimed play "Bulha," performed by artists from Ajoka and the Amritsar-based Manch Rangmanch. These performances celebrated the legacy of the Sufi poet Baba Bulleh Shah, highlighting themes of unity and friendship that transcend borders.

In addition to these performances, Italian visual comedy specialist Paolo Avanteno conducted a workshop at the National College of Arts (NCA). This workshop provided valuable insights into the art of visual comedy and physical theatre, further enriching the festival’s offerings. The Ajoka Dosti Festival, organized in collaboration with the Lahore Arts Council and supported by the Government of Punjab, continues to be a major cultural event. It attracts diverse audiences and fosters international dialogue through the performing arts.

As the festival progresses, it is clear that events like the Ajoka Dosti International Theatre Festival play a crucial role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding. They remind us of the power of art to bring people together, inspire change, and celebrate our shared humanity. In a world that often feels divided, such gatherings are a beacon of hope, encouraging us to embrace our differences while finding common ground through creativity and expression.