LAHORE: The three-day Rafi Peer Puppet Festival, which had begun on April 19, concluded at the Lahore Fort here on Sunday.

Rafi Peer Theatre organised the event in collaboration with the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA).

Sadaan Pirzada from Rafi Peer Theatre Workshop (RPTW) and the moving spirit behind the event, told Dawn that this year’s festival featured a compelling lineup of puppetry performances from some of the renowned groups in the country, including the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) Puppets, Alhamra Arts Council Puppets, and our very own Rafi Peer Puppet Show.He said RPTW was thrilled to see the return of the puppet festival, that was held in the historic Lahore Fort’s grand Dewan-e-Aam. Now in its 26th year, the puppet festival has become a hallmark of cultural heritage and artistic expression in Pakistan.

To date, RPTW has hosted 85 festivals, each contributing to the rich tapestry of performing arts in the region and reinforcing our commitment to cultural preservation and innovation, says Pirzada.

The festival also included the traditional folklore puppet shows and a vibrant Rafi Peer Puppet Parade, all designed to entertain, educate, and inspire audiences of all ages.

Set in the majestic surroundings of Lahore Fort, the festival not only offered a feast for the senses, but also delved into the cultural stories of Pakistan. Each performance intricately weaves tales of folklore, myth, and modern-day narratives, bringing them to life through the unique charm and creativity that puppetry allows.

“Our partnership with the Walled City of Lahore Authority highlights a shared dedication to utilising cultural events as a platform for education and community engagement. Together, we aim to create an environment that celebrates the rich historical legacy of Lahore while showcasing the innovative spirit of contemporary puppetry arts”, says Pirzada.

The festival featured a lively lineup of puppet performances, storytelling sessions, mascot parades, puppet-making workshops, and much more, making it a perfect place to experience the vibrant spirit of Lahore with people from different walks of life attending the event.

Published in Dawn, April 22nd, 2024