If you are looking for a spectacular theatre experience in Islamabad, then House Arrest, written by the legendary Anwar Maqsood, directed by the dynamic Daawar Mehmood, and produced by Wajiha Waseem, is a must-watch!
Currently playing at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), House Arrest has quickly become the talk of the town, offering a delightful mix of laughter, wit, and sharp social observation — a true celebration of Pakistani storytelling on stage.
📍 Venue and Timing Details
Venue: Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA)
Address: F5/1, Islamabad, Pakistan
Dates: April 24 – May 9, 2025
Show Timings:
7:00 PM (Gates open at 6:00 PM)
9:00 PM (Gates open at 8:00 PM)
Ticket Price: PKR 3,000
Booking Link: Book your tickets now on Bookme.pk
Important: No mobile phones, food, or late entry allowed. Seating is first-come, first-served. Children under 10 not permitted.
🎭 The Story of House Arrest
House Arrest brings a fresh, non-political narrative from Anwar Maqsood, diving deep into the intricacies of family life with his signature humor and touching poignancy.
The story centers around Amma B, a strong-willed, witty matriarch, and her cousin Nasreen, who find themselves literally locked inside their own house by Amma B’s son, Aftab. Aftab, frustrated by the outside world and societal expectations, tries to “protect” his family by keeping them confined within their home — leading to endless humorous yet heart-wrenching situations.
🌟 Meet the Brilliant Characters of House Arrest
✨ Amma B
Played with heart and hilarity, Amma B is the soul of the story — a feisty woman who refuses to let circumstances dampen her spirit. Her witty one-liners, profound wisdom, and endless banter with Nasreen keep the audience in fits of laughter while tugging at their emotions.
✨ Nasreen
Amma B’s cousin, Nasreen, is her perfect foil — a little more cautious but equally spirited. Their exchanges form some of the most memorable moments of the play, giving depth to the portrayal of enduring family bonds.
✨ Aftab (the Son)
Aftab is the well-meaning but deeply confused son whose decision to “house arrest” his family is driven by a misplaced sense of protection. His struggles reflect the generational gap, societal pressures, and the burden of modern expectations on today’s youth.
✨ The Daughter-in-law
Caught between loyalty to her husband, tolerating Amma B and Nasreen, the daughter-in-law adds emotional complexity to the storyline. Her subtle rebellion and quiet resilience add another beautiful layer to the narrative. Her father,
✨ The Police Officers
Bringing in elements of chaos and comedy, the police officers represent the absurdities of law enforcement in a light-hearted manner. Their bumbling antics and interactions with the family escalate the situation into pure theatrical brilliance.
🎉 Why House Arrest is a Must-Watch
Anwar Maqsood’s writing sparkles throughout, combining humor, irony, and empathy in a way that only he can. Under Daawar Mehmood’s masterful direction, each scene unfolds seamlessly, keeping the audience thoroughly engaged and emotionally invested.
The characters are relatable and lovable, making you laugh out loud while also reflecting on deeper social issues like generational conflicts, freedom, societal change, and human resilience.
Every performance feels authentic and beautifully timed — a true testament to the talent of the cast and the passion of the creative team behind the production.
🎟️ Final Thoughts
House Arrest is not just a play — it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and resilience, wrapped up in humor and heart. Whether you are a die-hard fan of Pakistani theatre or just someone looking for a great evening out, House Arrest at PNCA Islamabad promises a theatrical experience you will not forget.
🔗 Secure your seats now and be part of this theatrical marvel!
👉 Hurry — tickets are selling fast, and you do not want to miss witnessing this Anwar Maqsood masterpiece come to life on stage!
