ACP's Arts Alumni Festival 2025 concludes with vibrant celebration of culture, talent

The three-day Arts Alumni Festival 2025, organised by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, concluded on a high note, featuring a dynamic showcase of artistic excellence and cultural diversity.

The final day of the festival captivated audiences with a performance of Tennessee Williams’ acclaimed play The Glass Menagerie, while renowned television director, producer, and actor Khalid Ahmed conducted an engaging voice workshop focused on public speaking, acting, teaching, and hosting.

Other key highlights included a panel discussion titled “Alumni Stars: Past and Future”, and a masterclass in music under the theme “The Art of Sonic Storytelling: From Folk Traditions to Future Melodies.” Storytelling sessions and dance showcases also drew large crowds.

Students from the Dance Academy stole the show with mesmerising cultural performances representing all four provinces of Pakistan.

A special dance tribute celebrated the golden era of Pakistani cinema, and a unique interpretive performance on the ancient civilisation of Mohenjo-Daro, choreographed by Dance Academy head Mani Chao, received widespread acclaim.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, President of the Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah expressed pride in the enthusiastic participation of the youth and the progress of the Council’s academies.

“The energy and passion of our youth over these three days was truly inspiring,” Shah said, adding: “I am proud to say that the students of our academies have now become experts in their respective fields. We have created a factory of happiness and our finest product is the skilled artist.”

Reflecting on the Council’s journey, Shah recalled how the institution had grown from modest beginnings.

“When I took charge, we had nothing. We started with a single teacher at the theatre academy. Then we launched music and dance academies. Today, these institutions are thriving. Our art school, originally founded in 1964, has been revived and now stands as Pakistan’s first dedicated art school. The work of our young artists is being showcased in major galleries and collected by top buyers,” he said.

Shah also highlighted the national and international recognition of the Council’s students, particularly in music and performing arts, noting their participation in festivals both in Pakistan and abroad. He added that the festival was dedicated to Pakistan’s martyrs and celebrated the armed forces’ sacrifices, especially in wars with India.

Addressing previous resistance to dance, Shah said: “A decade ago, we launched Pakistan’s first open dance festival, despite widespread hesitation. Dance is a complete art form. Promoting dance does not mean promoting obscenity. Don’t people have the right to be happy? Why impose restrictions on joy?”

The festival wrapped up with a rousing “Qawwali Fusion” performance by the Jambros Band, who were joined by fellow musicians, bringing the event to a colorful and soulful close.