Artistes promised welfare fund: Drama to get new act after 130 years | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

Artistes promised welfare fund: Drama to get new act after 130 years

LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Culture and Youth Affairs Dr Tanvirul Islam has said a welfare fund should be established in the province for the financial support of deserving artistes.

To make the plan financially feasible, the minister proposed the stage shows should be held for 16 instead of 15 days, and the income of the extra day should be deposited with the welfare fund.

He was presiding over a meeting in the committee room of Alhamra on Tuesday.

Home Department Additional Secretary Saif Anjum told the meeting his department had prepared a draft to amend the Drama Act of 1876, summary of which had been sent to the government for approval of the cabinet after which it would be placed before the Punjab Assembly. He stressed the need for enforcement of existing laws to monitor the theatre and drama performances.

Deputy Director (Drama) Niaz Lakhwera said registration of artistes was being done in the past, but this practice was stopped due to unknown reasons.

Dr Tanvirul Islam directed the city district government officers concerned that while monitoring stage drama rehearsals no irrelevant person should be invited. He asked them to check dialogues having dual meanings with ‘vulgar’ connotations. He said registration of artistes should also be started in Punjab like Sindh.

He said while introducing amendments to the Drama Act, the suggestions of all stakeholders would be considered. All necessary steps would be taken to make stage dramas adhere to our traditions and culture.
Source: Dawn
Date:11/24/2010