By: Aziz Khatri
Karachi: The 39-day World Culture Festival 2025 continued its vibrant cultural journey on its 17th day with Dance Night 2.0, workshops, film screenings, and theatre performances. Dance Night 2.0 showcases spectacular performances by both international and local artists. Anisha Thai performed alongside the Sovapa students, while the Philippines Folk Dance drew massive attention from the audience. The ACP Classical Fusion group captivated spectators with its intricate, graceful movements, making the event a memorable cultural celebration.
Earlier, the day began with a dance workshop by renowned Hong Kong dancer Anisha Thai, where students explored various dance styles through expressive body movements and learned the art of synchronisation and stage presence. Addressing the participants, Anisha Thai said, "Dance is not just movement, it is a feeling. When we energize each other, the performance comes alive. Harmony between partners adds beauty and grace. I am impressed by the talent, enthusiasm, and dedication of Arts Council students. Keep working hard, and you can shine on the global stage. Dance connects hearts and spreads joy and positivity."*
The festival featured the Middle East Shorts Showcase, presenting five acclaimed short films from Turkey, Iran, Sudan, Bahrain, and Egypt. Iranian Film “Head Eaters” Directed by Pedram Gharehbagh. A darkly comic horror about an unsuspecting man invited to a dinner with a mysterious group, revealing their bizarre appetites. Turkey Film “The Shell” Directed by Sema Güler, a poignant story of a young female painter, Leyla, who isolates herself after experiencing male violence, only to confront her past through a series of events. Sudan Film “Pray of Dinner” Directed by Ishaa. A brief yet insightful glimpse into a bustling family meal, highlighting relationships, conversations, and daily life. Bahrain Film “A Beautiful Excuse For a Deadly Sin” Directed by Hashim Sharaf. A humorous and engaging story of a young man trying to move into his apartment with his horse, despite opposition from a neighbour. Egypt Film “At the End of the Day” Directed by John Shehata.
A reflective tale of an ageing writer whose memories and present moments blend, offering viewers an introspective look at the delicate and profound aspects of life. The festival also hosted the English-language theatre play” Didn’t Know That About You” by Soky Productions (Norway), directed by Elisabet Topp. The performance featured international artists including Bella Rahim (Malaysia), Karen and Kristoffer Reinstad Eggset (Norway), and Hjalmar (Denmark). The play tackled themes of abuse of power, peer pressure, sexual assault, and the redefinition of the victim’s role, inspired by interviews with youth from Norway and Malaysia and the performers’ own stories. The performance received widespread acclaim from the audience. The 17th day of the festival highlighted the diversity and richness of global culture, offering attendees an immersive experience of dance, theatre, and cinema from around the world.
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