LAHORE: Veteran film, TV and stage actor Masood Akhtar wants to stage meaningful, socially relevant and non-commercial theatre at the Alhamra Arts Council, The Mall, under the banner of ‘Fankar Academy’.

Akhtar, who started doing theatre in Lahore in 1960s and is also on the Board of Governors of the Lahore Arts Council (LAC), told Dawn on Wednesday that he wanted to stage plays for social uplift, devoid of the commercial element. He has also submitted a proposal with the LAC in this regard.

“I am one of the founding members of Alhamra and I wish that glory of past years theatre, that used to be done at Alhamra, should be revived”.

About his work for film, television and theatre, Akhtar said though he was born at a village (Firdous 45/12) near Sahiwal in 1938, he opted for the world of glamour.

He did his matriculation from Sahiwal and graduation from MAO College, Lahore and finally did law from Punjab University Law College, Lahore.

“Though me, Kavi Khan, Ali Ejaz and some other actors started their career as bankers, we ended up doing radio, theatre and film for we all were like-minded,” he said.

He said he had offered his services free of cost to train young talent for theatre which could be enjoyed by families. He said one of the scripts, written by Munir Raj was under consideration.

In an effort to revive message-oriented theatre from the council’s platform Akhtar has formed Fankar Academy to stage such plays at Alhamra. He said the plays he wanted to stage could also generate funds for ailing artists.

LAC Executive Director retired Capt Atta Muhammad Khan pledged the council’s support for those veteran artists, including Masood Akhtar, who wanted to contribute to performing arts from its platform.

Published in Dawn, September 21st, 2017