MAD School’s founder Nida Butt is known as the pioneer of Broadway style Musical Theater in Pakistan. She has brought to the local stage several West End Musical hits and drama productions, including original musicals and children’s theater, alongside producing some of Pakistan’s top acting, singing & dancing talent.
In 2015, MAD School co-organized the 1st I AM KARACHI Music Festival. The festival aimed to rekindle and reclaim Karachi’s musical culture, with a focus on rebuilding the city’s socio-cultural fabric. It encompassed three key components: Music Mentorship, Music Dialogues, and the Music Festival. The festival’s operations were overseen by Hamza Jafri as the Programming Director and Nida Butt as the Artistic Director. During the festival, 60 renowned artists delivered over 90 hours of live music. This 5-day event emerged as the most well-attended music festival in recent memory, attracting over 60,000 attendees.
Karachi witnessed its inaugural touring cultural festival, the Karachi Mubarak Festival, a significant cultural event featuring over 80 artists from various domains, including Theater, Music, Dance, Mime, Puppetry, and Performance Art. The festival spanned three districts, concluding at Frere Hall with five simultaneous stages offering diverse cultural experiences. Accessible with a low entry fee of Rs. 100, the event welcomed nearly 20,000 attendees to celebrate Karachi’s cultural richness.
“The Bobbles” is a dynamic 4-person performance ensemble dedicated to creating engaging live and digital content tailored for children aged 2 to 12.With Nida at the helm as director and original songs composed by the talented Hamza Jafri, The Bobbles became a delightful fusion of fun and education. They wove learning seamlessly into the fabric of entertainment, nurturing creativity and expanding young minds. With the successful completion of two seasons, totaling over 200 shows, “The Bobbles” rapidly became a sensation from the very start. In its inaugural year, “The Bobbles” was an instant hit, garnering more than 50 school bookings and participating in various festivals. Their performances extended to esteemed institutions such as CAPA, KDSP, and Indus Hospital. Moreover, in collaboration with UNICEF Pakistan, “The Bobbles” embarked on a tour of government schools, making a significant impact on young audiences. Looking to the future, “The Bobbles” is currently working on its first animation series, set to be unveiled in 2024. This new endeavor promises to bring their creative storytelling to a wider audience of children, further solidifying their place as a beloved and innovative contributor to children’s entertainment and education.
Pakistan’s first original theater musical, Karachi – the Musical,” made a spectacular debut and quickly captured the hearts of its audience. With a remarkable ensemble of 12 original songs, skillfully composed by Hamza Jafri, and expertly directed by Nida Butt, the play transcended the boundaries of conventional theater.The production skillfully transported its viewers into the vibrant and dynamic neighborhoods of Karachi, offering a window into the unique ways of life in places like the boxing clubs of Lyari. It brilliantly showcased the intense passion that individuals in these communities had for the sport, while also weaving a captivating narrative of unconventional heroism in the face of imminent danger. The play featured Imam Syed and Adnan Jaffer, both of whom have since become well-known figures in the television industry. Imam Syed portrayed the protagonist, while Adnan Jaffer brought the antagonist to life, their stellar performances adding depth and authenticity to the production.”Karachi – the Musical” not only marked a significant milestone as Pakistan’s first original theater musical but also left a lasting impact by telling a powerful and emotionally charged story that resonated with its audience. It’s a testament to the power of theater to engage and inspire through music, storytelling, and exceptional performances.
YouTube – Karachi the Musical Promo
“Mamma Mia” was a theatrical masterpiece that boasted a star-studded ensemble, featuring acclaimed talents like Kiran Chaudry, Umair Rana, Sanam Saeed, and the talented Viccaji sisters. Their performances added depth and charisma to the show, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. What truly set “Mamma Mia” apart was the enchanting and timeless music of ABBA. The melodies of this iconic band resonated with theater goers, prompting spontaneous moments of dancing in the aisles and joyous singing from the audience. The energy and enthusiasm in the theater were palpable, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance. This production marked a significant turning point in Nida Butt’s career, further cementing her reputation as the undisputed queen of theater in Pakistan. With “Mamma Mia,” she demonstrated her remarkable ability to bring together top-tier talent and deliver a show that not only entertained but also left a profound impression on the hearts of theater enthusiasts, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the world of Pakistani theater.
Each year, MAD School hosts a much-anticipated Summer Camp for Children, offering a diverse array of art education activities. These activities encompass a wide spectrum of creative pursuits, including music with singing, guitar, and keyboard classes, as well as dance classes, including ballet. Under the expert guidance of Nida Butt and Hamza Jafri, the Summer Camp aims to provide young participants with golden opportunities to engage in activities that foster and encourage creative expression. The camp becomes a nurturing ground for young talents to explore their artistic inclinations, discover their passions, and embark on a journey of self-expression and artistic growth. It is an enriching and inspiring experience that equips children with valuable skills and ignites their love for the arts.
Tiled Text: In 2019, MAD School’s Music on Campus Program, led by Nida Butt, aimed to create vibrant artistic hubs in Karachi’s universities, equipping students with music industry skills and fostering social change through music. It included engagement and dialogue sessions, Arts Management, Event Management, and Fundraising training, as well as musical classes and song creation workshops. Operating for three years, it reached over 15,000 students, revitalizing music societies across six universities and leaving a lasting impact on over 300,000 students with free arts education, workshops, concerts, mentoring, and more.
A 32-piece Orchestra featuring Pakistani ethnic instruments and singing ensemble, performing original music compositions & poetry in 10 Pakistan languages: Sindhi, Punjabi, Balochi, Pashto, Siraiki, Shina, Brushesk, Marwari, Hindko and Urdu.
The 39 Steps,” a remarkable theatrical production, is renowned for its minimalistic set and the incredible achievement of having only 4 actors portray a staggering 40 characters. Directed by Nida Butt, this adaptation of the classic spy novel and film is further enriched by the presence of acclaimed actress Sanam Saeed. “The 39 Steps” weaves a thrilling tale around Richard Hannay, a London civilian, brought to life by the versatile Faraz Lodhi. Accused of a murder he didn’t commit, Hannay races to Scotland to evade the police and thwart a spy group, ‘The 39 Steps,’ from betraying military secrets. Alongside him is the captivating Margaret, portrayed by the talented Sanam Saeed. Their journey unfolds with unexpected encounters and a supporting cast of 30 characters skillfully played by Zeeshan Shah and Ali Hashmi. While the engaging storyline is the backbone, it’s the flawless execution of effects, costumes, and character transitions that truly steals the spotlight. These four actors, despite juggling multiple roles, display an impressive craft, leaving audiences enthralled. With over 20 shows under its belt, this production captivates audiences with minimal props, relying on the sheer creativity of the cast and crew to transport viewers into a world of espionage and intrigue. One of its standout features is the stellar sound design, which adds depth and atmosphere to the performance, enhancing the storytelling and immersing the audience in the narrative. Touted as one of Nida Butt’s most outstanding theatrical creations, “The 39 Steps” was a tour de force in minimalistic storytelling.
“Grease” marked Pakistan’s inaugural officially licensed production, achieved through a collaboration with Theatrical Rights Worldwide. This iconic musical was staged in Karachi twice within a span of two years. Notably, it served as the launchpad for Ahmed Ali, who rapidly ascended to become a highly sought-after actor in the subsequent years. The production also shone a spotlight on the theatrical prowess of Ayesha Omar, Sanam Saeed, and Natasha Humera Ejaz, showcasing their incredible talent to the delight of audiences.
“Confidence Building Through Theater Education” was a four-month program conducted in 2015 at the Usmania Public School in Hingorabad. During this program, students received training in the art of Improvisational Theater, a form of theater that encourages participants to think on their feet, express themselves creatively, and boost their self-confidence. The project culminated in an end-of-session live performance, which was well-attended by the local community, providing a platform for students to showcase their newfound skills and confidence.
MAD School’s production of “East is East” was a significant theatrical endeavor. This theater play was brought to life at NAPA and underwent a remarkable transformation as it was adapted into an Urdu musical, making it more accessible and relatable to a broader audience. What added an extra layer of depth and originality to this adaptation were the four original songs composed by Hamza Jafri. These songs were thoughtfully infused into the narrative, enhancing the overall musical experience and resonating with the emotions of the story. What made this production particularly noteworthy was its commitment to inclusivity. Tickets were priced at just Rs. 200, a deliberate choice to ensure that a wide variety of communities and individuals could partake in this cultural and artistic experience. This pricing strategy aimed to break down economic barriers and invite people from different backgrounds to come together, enjoy the performance, and engage in the rich tapestry of Urdu musical theater. MAD School’s efforts in making this production accessible showcased their dedication to fostering a more inclusive and culturally vibrant society.
In “Carnage,” Nida Butt embraced a unique dual role, both directing and acting, a testament to her versatility as a theater artist. This non-musical theatrical production also featured the exceptionally talented Sanam Saeed, adding to the charisma of the show. “Carnage” was a comedic satire that had audiences in stitches, thanks to its witty and thought-provoking humor. The play delivered a successful run in Karachi, with viewers roaring with laughter at the cleverly crafted comedy. The production left an indelible mark on theatergoers, offering not just entertainment but also sparking contemplation through its humor. Nida Butt’s ability to take on both directorial and acting responsibilities in “Carnage” showcased her exceptional talent and versatility within the theater world. The play’s triumphant run and its ability to resonate with the audience highlighted Nida Butt’s position as a trailblazer in Pakistani theater, capable of delivering both stellar direction and captivating performances.
Nida Butt’s directorial debut made waves in Karachi and Lahore with its captivating performances, complete with a full orchestra and live singing. As the first and only one of its kind to date, this production raised the bar for theater in Pakistan. Tickets were in such high demand that they sold in black, and the show had to be extended multiple times to accommodate the enthusiastic audience. Most importantly, it ignited the theatrical scene in Karachi, giving birth to numerous theatre groups that began staging their own shows.
Hum TV’s inaugural Style Awards were poised to shine a spotlight on Pakistan’s most outstanding talents. With top-notch nominees and electrifying performances, Nida Butt left no stone unturned in her quest to make history. The red carpet was graced by luminaries from the entertainment industry, as well as fashion and sports icons featuring Ahmed Ali Butt, Umair Jaswal, Meesha Shafi, Ali Zafar, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi, Amina Sheikh, Adnan Malik, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Mahira Khan and HSY. The event featured meticulously choreographed, scintillating performances, one after another, captivating the audience. Additionally, it demonstrated the pinnacle of Pakistan’s musical talent. The first-ever Hum Style Awards concluded with resounding success, leaving many to wonder why Nida Butt hadn’t taken the helm earlier.
In 2014, MAD School initiated a transformative project by launching a free, multi-disciplinary after-school arts education program specifically designed for youth from Lyari Town.This program offered bi-weekly classes in Singing, Guitar, Dance, Acting, and Drums, serving as a creative outlet for the students. Over the years, the Stars program evolved beyond just nurturing musical and artistic talent; it also sought to boost the students’ confidence and problem-solving abilities. The program has also served as a launchpad for emerging artists, many of whom have gone on to achieve international acclaim – Kaifi Khalil is a testament to that fact. Since its inception, the program has positively impacted the lives of over 200 teenagers, both boys and girls, hailing from Lyari and Chanesar Goth. Through the transformative power of arts and music, these young individuals have found a path to personal growth and self-expression. Notably, the Karachi Stars’ students achieved remarkable successes in theater, music, and film, garnering awards locally and internationally for their contributions to the arts. Under the guidance of MAD School, the students had even produced two musicals in Karachi: “A Bunch of Clowns” in 2015 and “Hai Abba Jaan” in 2016. As the program continued to expand, it introduced a Mentorship Component in 2016, wherein older students took on mentorship roles for younger ones, forming a valuable support network within the community. In 2017, a Teacher Training Component was added, empowering the brightest students to become teachers themselves, enabling them to share their knowledge and skills within their own communities. This innovative approach not only benefited the students but also had a ripple effect on their neighborhoods. The Stars program garnered international attention and recognition when it became the subject of an Al Jazeera documentary titled “Lyari Notes,” which has been screened at film festivals worldwide. The program’s ongoing success is made possible through the support of local and international donors, ensuring that it continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of the youth it serves.
A highlight of the program was the discovery of Kaifi Khalil, a bright young talent who has since gone on to garner international acclaim.
Lyari Stars – Short Documentary
Bobble Theatre Shows for Children Affected by the 2022 Floods in Pakistan.
In the wake of the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan, which displaced 33 million people—majority of them in Sindh—UNICEF and MAD School joined forces to bring some joy and education to the children affected. Recognizing the profound impact of the floods on children, who were left vulnerable, traumatized, and in dire need of emotional support, the two organizations launched a series of theatre shows staged by The Bobbles, a four-person theatre troupe created and produced by Nida Butt with music by Hamza Jafri.
The Bobbles specialize in children’s educational and entertainment content, using dialogue, song, and dance to engage young audiences in themes such as social and environmental awareness, empowerment, inclusivity, life skills, and personal development. In 2023, The Bobbles staged 10 shows in public school venues across Karachi, bringing their lively performances to children who had been displaced by the floods and were now residing in relief camps.
These performances were not just about entertainment; they were carefully crafted to address the specific emotional and psychological needs of the children. The shows incorporated themes on coping with trauma, managing emotions, and seeking help when needed. The aim was to empower these young audiences, helping them navigate the complex emotions they were experiencing—anger, confusion, sadness, and depression—due to the loss of their homes, communities, and sense of security.
By providing a space for children to experience joy and learn valuable life skills in a safe, supportive environment, UNICEF and MAD School’s collaboration through The Bobbles sought to offer a glimmer of hope and normalcy. The initiative also aimed to promote personal growth, resilience, and a sense of empowerment among the displaced children during this challenging period in their lives.
Bobble Theatre Shows for Children Affected by the 2022 Floods in Pakistan.
In the wake of the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan, which displaced 33 million people—majority of them in Sindh—UNICEF and MAD School joined forces to bring some joy and education to the children affected. Recognizing the profound impact of the floods on children, who were left vulnerable, traumatized, and in dire need of emotional support, the two organizations launched a series of theatre shows staged by The Bobbles, a four-person theatre troupe created and produced by Nida Butt with music by Hamza Jafri.
The Bobbles specialize in children’s educational and entertainment content, using dialogue, song, and dance to engage young audiences in themes such as social and environmental awareness, empowerment, inclusivity, life skills, and personal development. In 2023, The Bobbles staged 10 shows in public school venues across Karachi, bringing their lively performances to children who had been displaced by the floods and were now residing in relief camps.
These performances were not just about entertainment; they were carefully crafted to address the specific emotional and psychological needs of the children. The shows incorporated themes on coping with trauma, managing emotions, and seeking help when needed. The aim was to empower these young audiences, helping them navigate the complex emotions they were experiencing—anger, confusion, sadness, and depression—due to the loss of their homes, communities, and sense of security.
By providing a space for children to experience joy and learn valuable life skills in a safe, supportive environment, UNICEF and MAD School’s collaboration through The Bobbles sought to offer a glimmer of hope and normalcy. The initiative also aimed to promote personal growth, resilience, and a sense of empowerment among the displaced children during this challenging period in their lives.
