LAHORE: The third day of the Dosti International Theatre Festival on Monday brought a mix of captivating theatre and lively folk performances to Alhamra Arts Council. The day began with a vibrant drum circle, featuring regional songs and dances set to the pulsating beats of drums and dhol. The energy of the music enthralled the audience, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Italian artist Paolo Avataneo’s dynamic performance of his play !(Exclamation Mark) was met with rounds of applause and laughter. His animated delivery held the audience’s attention throughout, marking a highlight of the festival. Following this, Sheema Kermani’s Tehrik-i-Niswan group presented Manto Mera Dost, a play based on the cherished memories of literary giants Ismat Chughtai and Saadat Hasan Manto, which left the audience deeply moved. The day celebrated international contributions, with folk dances, puppet shows, and bhand comedy continuing daily in Alhamra Hall 1. The audience welcomed the arrival of renowned Indian director Kewal Dhaliwal, Indian artists, and a Swiss group with a standing ovation, a heartwarming display of the cross-border friendship celebrated in this festival. The Ajoka International Dosti Theatre Festival will run until Nov 17, offering theatre workshops and discussions led by international artists across cultural institutions, including Government College, Lahore College for Women, Kinnaird College, Punjab University, and the University of Central Punjab. On the festival’s fourth day, Amritsar’s theatre group Manch Rangmanch will perform their acclaimed play Mitti Na Hovay Matraee.