LOVE, POLITICS AND FAMILY DRAMA
Meri Shaadi Meri Marzi is a romantic saga of two suitors vying for the affections of one woman.
Theatre productions are an insightful reflection on societal norms and prevailing mindsets, providing an avenue to explore the psyche of the masses. A nation’s ideas, beliefs, and struggles are aptly portrayed through the compelling medium of stage plays. Over the course of history, theatre performances have proven to be a powerful catalyst for societal transformation, not merely serving as a source of entertainment, but also as a means of facilitating the evolution of the masses. We have witnessed theatre writers and directors who keenly highlighted and discussed the major issues through their acts either in a serious way or / and jolly ways to mitigate the concern.
Regrettably, in Pakistan, theatre plays do not receive the recognition and patronage they deserve due to the lack of economic viability associated with the art form. It is a labour of love, a calling for the die-hard enthusiasts of theatre, who are ardent followers of arts and culture. In this context, Stage Nomad emerges as a beacon of hope, comprising a band of passionate individuals who remain committed to the cause of promoting theatre in the country, that too by entertaining their audience.
The latest offering by Stage Nomad, Meri Shaadi Meri Marzi, was recently showcased at the prestigious IBA Karachi City Campus, a not-to-be-missed opportunity for connoisseurs of theatre to immerse themselves in the magic of the performing arts, enjoy loads and loads of laughter, and genuinely clean fun and an interesting take on Pakistan’s political situation.
Meri Shaadi Meri Marzi is a fascinating portrayal of Pakizah, a spirited young woman who aspires to achieve self-sufficiency, but finds herself constrained by her family’s expectations and obligations. Living with her family that includes her aunt, her father, and her grandmother, Pakizah’s world is upended when her family decides to fix her marriage with cousin Guddu, a wealthy expatriate residing in the UK. Enter Imtiaz, with a nickname of Immu, who captures Pakizah’s heart in a perfect example of love at first sight. Immu witnesses the latent talent in Pakizah and supports her unwaveringly in the pursuit of her dreams. In contrast, Pakizah’s grandmother and aunt scheme to manipulate her into marrying Guddu, citing financial security as the primary incentive.
Amidst the ensuing chaos, Guddu, accompanied by Wasif (his uncle), Maham with her smart and plotting husband Sarfaraz and Bobby visit Pakizah, with an intent to cement the nuptial bond. The situation reaches a boiling point as the tale unfolds, as friends support, plots are hatched, and affection and admiration blooms to triumph over all.
Meri Shaadi Meri Marzi is a poignant drama, capturing the human experience with precision and evoking a range of emotions. The play offers a masterful depiction of familial tensions, societal expectations, and the transformative power of love. The actors’ performances are riveting, the stage design is stunning, and the storytelling is an exceptional and thoroughly entertaining work of art. It is an unmissable addition to the theatrical canon and a must-see for all aficionados of the performing arts, dramas and stage plays.
Meri Shaadi Meri Marzi boasts a script that is a testament to the writer’s ingenuity and an exceptional portrayal of Pakistani society, intertwined with pop culture references that are sure to elicit laughter from the audience. From ‘Mera Dil Yeh Pukaray Aaja’ reference to ‘Jab Ziada Paani Aata Hai’ the stage show highlights most updated instances to tickle audience. The infusion of political satire is another remarkable feature of this stage play, catering to those who have an astute awareness of the political landscape in Pakistan and have an ear for the speeches of political luminaries. The audience cannot ignore the remarkable contrast, and laugh and smile on the connections the writer has brought in.
References to speeches of famous political figures have been skillfully employed in the romantic setting, leaving the audience in awe. Ashar Naeem, the playwright of this theatrical marvel, has commendably demonstrated his mastery of the language by integrating astute wordplay throughout the play. The clever use of language is a hallmark of great Urdu satire, and the writer has elevated it to a new level with this script. Those who enjoy Urdu satire definitely going to enjoyed this stage play.
The play is a testament to the immense potential of Pakistani writers and their command over the language. It is a showcase of their dexterity in writing with great one-liners that add to the brilliance of the production. The script of Meri Shaadi Meri Marzi is a remarkable work of art, and it is a fitting tribute to the richness of Urdu language and culture. It is a play that is not only entertaining, but also thought-provoking, leaving the audience with a deep sense of appreciation for the sheer brilliance of the writing.
