LAHORE: The Ajoka Dosti International Theatre Festival on Friday entered its seventh day at Alhamra Arts Council, offering a dynamic mix of engaging panel discussions, cultural performances, hands-on workshops, and inspiring showcases of global theatre.
The day kicked off with a thought-provoking panel discussion, bringing together prominent theatre experts from around the world. Moderated by Shahid Nadeem of Ajoka, the panel featured distinguished speakers: 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 panelists explored the crucial role theatre plays in building peace and hope, emphasizing how the arts serve as a bridge to connect diverse cultures and promote understanding.
Following the insightful discussion, the Alhamra Hall 1 foyer came alive with a vibrant cultural performance showcasing traditional music that highlighted the rich artistic heritage of the region, adding a festive and uplifting atmosphere to the day’s events.
One of the festival’s key highlights was the Signal workshop production, directed by Monica Hunken and Leah Bachar from the Al LÃmite Collective (USA). Over four days, young Pakistani women participated in this immersive workshop, which culminated in a powerful theatrical production featuring an all-female cast of students from Kinnaird College and Lahore College for Women. The performance addressed the global struggle for women’s rights, integrating physical and vocal exercises, experimental storytelling, and collaborative creativity. 
The evening featured 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 Amritsar-based Manch Rangmanch. These performances celebrated the legacy of the Sufi poet Baba Bulleh Shah, highlighting themes of unity and friendship across borders.
In addition, Italian visual comedy specialist Paolo Avanteno conducted a workshop at the National College of Arts (NCA), offering valuable insights into the art of visual comedy and physical theatre.
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, attracting diverse audiences and fostering international dialogue through the performing arts.
