Written by: Hurmat Majid
Posted on: August 18, 2023 | 
| 中文
Juloos puts audiences in the position to wonder as if anything has changed in all these years
As the curtains rise on a world that straddles reality and imagination, the Arts Council Institute of Performing Arts (ACIPA) is poised to enthrall audiences with an avant-garde theatrical production that seamlessly intertwines the brilliance of Badal Sircar's iconic play Juloos (Procession), with the enigmatic allure of Saadat Hasan Manto's literary prowess.
Under the visionary direction of Fawad Khan, this performance by the ACIPA’s final-year theatre students, including Emran Farman, Faizan Younus, Muhammad Raza, Sara Taqi Allawala, Syed Usman Hikmat, Zaeem Naseeb, Ghulam Muhi ud Din, Saim Ali Hashmi, Hussnain Ayub, Rahim Bukhari, Arman Sami, Shehriyar Anwer, Komal Hayat Veerji, Muhammad Sufi Ghous, Hassan Malik, M. Adil Shakir, Farhan Rahim and Anfal Khan, promises an immersive journey through the intricacies of the human experience. Prepare to be captivated as the boundaries between actor and audience dissolve, and the enchantment of "Third Theatre" takes center stage.
Performing at a studio instead of on stage means that the cast can break the fourth wall at all times and they often do
Imagine a theatre that shatters conventions, defying the confines of a traditional proscenium stage. This is the essence of "Third Theatre," a groundbreaking concept forged by the luminary Badal Sircar. Unlike the opulent grandeur of "First Theatre", or the urban sophistication of "Second Theatre," the Third Theatre embarks on a quest for authenticity, fostering an intimate connection between the performer and the spectator. It breaches the fourth wall, plunging both into a realm of unfiltered emotions, uninhibited expressions and a shared experience that transcends mere storytelling.
At the heart of juloos lies a tale that resonates as a poignant reflection of the subcontinent's collective conscience. This powerful narrative navigates the labyrinth of human existence, pondering timeless questions that have reverberated through generations. An open-ended storyline, interwoven with dark humor, beckons the audience to delve into its layers and grapple with its profound queries that remain as relevant today as they were when first posed.
Actors in the midst of an animated scene
Having had the privilege of stepping into ACIPA's hallowed rehearsal space, a realm teeming with creativity, dedication and raw passion, this scribe was awestruck by the unfolding magic. The ensemble cast, guided by Fawad Khan's visionary hand, takes us on a spellbinding journey, leaving an indelible mark on the very essence of juloos.
Central to the narrative is the enigmatic figure of the "lost man," a symbol of humanity's existential quest. Talking exclusively to Youlin Magazine on the sidelines of the rehearsals, Director Fawad Khan encapsulates the essence of this mystery with a simple yet haunting question, "Who will take the lost man home?" This query resonates beyond the confines of the stage, a universal plea that invites us all to contemplate our place in the world.
Director Fawad Khan
In a world often bedazzled by individual brilliance, juloos dares to embrace the spirit of the ensemble. Cast and crew meld together, breathing life into an intricate tapestry that weaves myriad narratives into a singular, breathtaking vision. Each member shines as a star, illuminating the story's landscape with their unique brilliance, collectively crafting a constellation that will forever linger in the audience's memory.
Adding a layer of intrigue and complexity, Manto's literary allure seamlessly weaves into juloos. The fusion of Manto's essence with Sircar's narrative promises a multi-dimensional experience that tantalizes the senses and stimulates the intellect.
Two actors during rehearsals
As the weekend beckons, we extend a heartfelt invitation to all art enthusiasts, seekers of profound experiences, and aficionados of the theatrical craft. juloos transcends the realm of mere entertainment for it offers an opportunity to witness the very essence of Third Theatre, to traverse the boundaries of conventional artistry, and to immerse oneself in an intimate and shared odyssey of the human spirit.
Director Fawad Khan eloquently sums it up: "People should come watch juloos, not only because it is a great piece of theatre, but also because people should have the chance to witness the beauty of the Third Theatre." This is an encounter with the unfiltered truth of the stage, an invitation to engage with art in its most authentic, unadulterated form.
The cast practicing their parts
A legacy rekindled, Badal Sircar's spirit continues to thrive within juloos. His vision of Third Theatre, a theatre that pulsates with the heartbeat of the masses, finds its embodiment in this production. It stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of his philosophy, a tribute to a man who dared to challenge conventions and reshape the very essence of theatre.
So, mark your calendars for 18th, 19th and 20th of August, and come witness any of the three shows. And here's the key, for while admission is free for all, prior registration secures your passage into this realm of artistry. To secure your spot, simply reach out by calling 0300-0802397. And with that you can embark on a profound journey into the heart of juloos, a theatrical masterpiece that implores us to peer inward, to question and ultimately to rediscover the shared threads of our humanity.
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