25th International Rafi Peer World Performing Arts Festival organised by Rafi Peer Theater Workshop (RPTW) started on Thursday amid high security arrangements at Alhamara Cultural Complex Ghadafi Stadium, Lahore. The road leading to the venue was blocked by the law enforcing agencies and no one was allowed to enter the premises without showing their identity.
The festival was inaugurated by Begum Rafi Peerzada and the 300 foreign and 500 artists across the country attended the festival. Speaking on the occasion Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of RPTW Usman Peerzada said, 'Despite financial crisis and without any sponsor we are organising the festival and this year we don't issue any passes and any one who wants to see the performances should buy tickets.' He also said that prices of the tickets were nominal, as they were ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 500.
Artists from France Eusisabeta Potass and Chloe Roy who were performing in the puppet theatre "Fire Earth Water" said that they were here to please the children. The artists from Italy and other European countries showed satisfaction over the security arrangements. They also said that they would also like to perform in the festival next year.