Qissa Khwani Theatrics has kicked off the new year with a bang, launching its latest production: Samuel Beckett’s legendary play, Waiting for Godot, now performed in Urdu. The show premiered on January 1, 2026, at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) in Islamabad, drawing a crowd that was full of energy and excitement.
Audiences were quick to applaud the play’s clear direction, solid acting and how true it stayed to Beckett’s famous script. Many viewers said the production brought a fresh perspective to this classic, reminding everyone why Waiting for Godot still matters in today’s world. The night’s big takeaway? When performed with passion and focus, this iconic play remains as powerful as ever.
First staged in the 1950s, Waiting for Godot is a titan of the theatre world. Its sharp humor and raw simplicity dive deep into questions about life, hope and time, making people reflect on what it means to exist. Qissa Khwani Theatrics set out to capture all the play’s philosophical weight while giving modern audiences a show that’s both intense and captivating.
The director behind the scenes is Hammad Zulfiqar, a name known for his sharp eye and actor-focused style. The Urdu translation and overall production come from Ahmad Umar Ayaz, an award-winning playwright whose works have lit up stages across the country, from Islamabad’s PNCA to Lahore’s Alhamra and Karachi’s NAPA.
On stage, the audience saw performances by Syed Qasim Shah, Muhammad Arslan, Hammad Zulfiqar, Abdul Basit Mushtaq and Usman Shafique. Fans of the theatre world know this group for their skill and emotional range, and the cast’s ability to handle the demands of Beckett’s writing made a big impression.
Making sure everything ran smoothly behind the scenes were Sundas Tanveer and Moazam Rafique, leading the production team with professional flair and efficiency.
Qissa Khwani Theatrics has built a reputation for bringing bold, thoughtful drama to the stage. Their commitment to quality and fresh interpretations is setting a new standard for theatre in Pakistan, inviting local audiences to see world-famous plays in a whole new light.
