UK
Cultural outreach of the High Commission appreciated by the audience
Rousing and avid applause for ‘ISHQ the Musical’ finale
Cultural diplomacy is the way forward in this age: Syed Ibne Abbas
With rousing and avid applause, the finale of ‘ISHQ the Musical’ was performed last evening at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre of London, one of the most prestigious places in the world for theatrical performances.
Four performances in three days, i.e. 7-9 September 2017, had all circles of the theatre full with the audience. The performances were quite a treat to the senses of the art and culture fans. The production featured music and choreography from across Pakistan and the UK, and used both classical and modern dance, poetry and fusion music. Based on 600 years old legendary romance of Heer Ranjha, the talented cast kept the audience wrapt for over two-hour long shows.
‘ISHQ the Musical’ is one of the events organised by the Pakistan High Commission London to celebrate the country’s 70th Independence Anniversary this year.
Speaking to the guests and media at the Sadler’s Wells, H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, the High Commissioner said:
“Cultural diplomacy is the way forward in this age. It is one of the most effective tools to bring communities together and forge mutual understanding among various cultures. Pakistan, though only 70 years old, belongs to an ancient land, which is the custodian of the Indus Valley Civilization, and we have got a rich cultural legacy to present before the world. ‘ISHQ’, an Anglo Sufi Musical, is an endeavour in that direction.”
The High Commissioner hoped that cultural outreach like ‘ISHQ’ would help project the true image of Pakistan abroad and bust the myths associated with our country for wrong reasons.
The cultural outreach of the High Commission has been widely appreciated by the Pakistani community as well as the British friends of Pakistan who have been part of the celebrations.
‘ISHQ’ has been produced by Serendip Productions, an award-winning company from Pakistan. The cast is from Pakistan and the UK, including Ahsan Khan, Adnan Jaffar, Rasheeda Ali, Rachel Viccaji, Irfan Damani, Sohai Abro, Arti Daltri and others.
