Arts, Music & Culture in Lahore, Pakistan

Karachi can claim the title as Pakistan's business hub; Islamabad may be the country's official capital, but Lahore has always been the center of arts, music and culture in Pakistan. As most things are advertised via word of mouth or local newspapers, it can be difficult for newcomers to find their way to cultural events in Lahore. Check out some of the following events and centers of arts, music & culture. Please add your suggestions in the comment section.

World Performing Arts Festival

Organized by the Rafi PeerTheatre Group, this annual festival brings together local artists as well as those from abroad. The events take place over 10 days, and each afternoon and evening there are different acts scheduled. There are puppet shows, dance shows, and musical events in different tents set up around the open-air theater at Qaddafi Stadium. You can brown handicrafts and the art gallery where all work on display is for sale. Each evening culminates in an open-air musical concert in the theater.

The World Performing Arts Festival is one of the best opportunities to see arts and culture in Lahore. Keep your eyes and ears open for next year's schedule!

Dramatic Productions by Shah Sharabeel

Some of the best stage drama I've ever witnessed has been dramatic productions directed by Shah Sharabeel. He's done full-length farce comedies like You Only Marry Twice and Dally in the Dark, as well as dramatic musical productions like Phantom of the Opera, Moulin Rouge and Bombay Dreams. Sharabeel works with amateur actors and has discovered a lot of young talent in Pakistan. Performances have been taking place at Al Hamra on Mall Road.

National College of Art (NCA)

Pakistan's premier college of arts often hosts events. As they offer programs in Fine Arts, Ceramics, Graphic Design, Musicology, Communication Design, Product Design, Architecture, Film & Television, NCA serves as a breeding ground for many of the country's burgeoning artists.

Lahore Chitrkar

Learn how to play traditional Pakistani instruments or how to do classical Indian dance. The center is located near Coffee, Tea & Company (CTC) in Gulberg. The prices are very reasonable. My husband and I took a tabla (Pakistani drum) lesson, and although playing two notes for an hour proved to be a bit tedious, we did enjoy watching the master drummers have an impromptu jam session.

Danka.com.pk

Danka.com.pk is your internet resource for all upcoming cultural events in Lahore. Check the site regularly to be updated on what's happening in the arts & culture scene in Lahore. They list exhibitions, musical events, poetry & literature readings, conferences and talks, sports events and spiritual events. This is the place where you can learn about upcoming events at NCA, the World Performing Arts Festival, productions by Shah Sharabeel and many other cultural events. If you bookmark this site and check it once a week, you will certainly be in the know about what's going on in Lahore.