Veteran theater actor and comedian Naseem Vicky has revealed the grim realities faced by performers in Pakistan’s theater industry, stating that many girls and even male dancers perform out of compulsion rather than choice.
Speaking in a recent podcast, Vicky explained that economic hardships often drive performers to the stage. “If the theater remains closed for even a week, those dancing on stage may go hungry at home. Some girls have a sick parent, someone has to feed their children — everyone has a story,” he said, highlighting how financial instability forces individuals into stage performances.
He also criticized the Punjab government’s ban on dance performances in theaters, saying it led to severe financial losses. “I suffered a loss of up to eight million rupees in seven months. I can show my bank account details to prove it,” he stated, emphasizing that such decisions should not be made without viable alternatives or understanding their broader impact on artists’ livelihoods.
On a personal note, Naseem Vicky shared that his wife was a former stage actress, but he asked her to leave the profession after marriage to focus on their family.
He expressed concern about the industry’s environment, declaring that he would never allow his children to enter theater. His son is currently studying in London, while his elder daughter is a psychiatrist, and the younger one is still in school.
Vicky also said that he deliberately avoids casting new girls in his plays, choosing instead to work with established actresses to protect newcomers from exploitation.
He lamented that critics often fail to recognize the immense pressure and financial struggles that compel performers to stay in the field, calling for more empathy and understanding toward theater artists in Pakistan.
