Islamabad: The recent Acting Workshop at TW Den in Islamabad, led by the renowned Australian actor and trainer John Samaha, was an engaging and transformative experience for all involved. Drawing participants from diverse backgrounds and across a broad age range, the workshop welcomed about 13 eager individuals into a dynamic, immersive world of acting and performance.
John Samaha, whose expertise in acting and theater has gained international recognition, brought a fresh perspective to the Pakistani theater community. His engaging and inclusive approach made the five-hour session both intensive and enjoyable. Through a combination of exercises, practical techniques, and improvisation, John encouraged participants to step out of their comfort zones, discover their unique voices, and explore new methods of self-expression.
The exercises brought out the best in everyone, sparking laughter, excitement, and a sense of unity within the group as they created an electrifying atmosphere. For many, this was not just an exercise in acting, but a lesson in cooperation, spontaneity, and adaptability — skills invaluable on and off the stage.
In addition to such group exercises, John offered personalized feedback, guiding each participant to improve specific areas, whether in voice modulation, body language, or emotional expression. This individual attention allowed participants to make substantial improvements, despite the workshop’s short duration. Those new to acting found themselves quickly acclimating to the fundamentals, while more experienced participants gained advanced insights and techniques. The diversity in ages and experience levels enriched the learning environment, fostering cross-generational exchange and camaraderie.
Throughout the workshop, John emphasized the importance of authenticity and presence in acting. He encouraged everyone to embrace their own stories, perspectives, and voices rather than simply imitate others. This emphasis on personal expression resonated deeply with the participants, as it highlighted acting as a tool for storytelling and social change — a vision closely aligned with Theatre Wallay’s mission.
The setting of TW Den provided an ideal backdrop, combining a creative space with the community spirit that Theatre Wallay is known for. By the end of the workshop, participants left not only with new acting skills but also with a deeper connection to one another and the local theater community. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from an international expert and to experience such high-quality theater training right in the heart of Islamabad.
John Samaha’s visit to Islamabad and his memorable workshop at TW Den mark yet another milestone in Theatre Wallay’s ongoing efforts to bring world-class theater to Pakistan. The event was not only a success in terms of skill-building and artistic growth but also a celebration of the vibrant, ever-evolving theater community in Islamabad.
