NAPA, the National Academy of Performing Arts, is a theatre and music school in Karachi that also stages plays, concerts and festivals open to the public. It stands on M.R. Kiyani Road in Civil Lines, in the historic Hindu Gymkhana building. Visitors can see a performance there, but there is no fixed daily programme, so the way to do it is to check what is on before you plan a date around it.
This guide explains what NAPA is, how to find out about shows and get in, and one uncertainty about the building.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Where | M.R. Kiyani Road, Civil Lines (Hindu Gymkhana building) |
| Founded | 2005 |
| Office hours | Monday to Friday, 10 am to 6 pm (per NAPA's website) |
| Performances | Plays, music and festivals, announced by NAPA |
| Tickets | Check NAPA's own channels; third-party ticket sites have listed it |
| Prices | Vary by event; none published in one place |
What is NAPA?
NAPA was set up in 2005, with the actor and broadcaster Zia Mohyeddin as its founding chairman. It teaches theatre arts and music, and its website says it is supported by Pakistan's Ministry of Heritage and the Sindh Culture Department. Teachers over the years have included well-known television actors and musicians.
Its two departments are music and theatre arts, and the theatre course is a three-year diploma in acting and direction. Its work comes in two parts. The academy runs courses, and it presents productions and music programmes, which is what a visitor is interested in. Student and faculty productions and festivals are announced by the academy.
How do I find out what is on?
There is no all-year timetable that we could find. The practical routes are:
- NAPA's website, napa.org.pk, which lists the academy's events and offers a contact email and phone numbers.
- NAPA's social media pages on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, where the academy announces productions.
- Ticketing sites. eTicketing.pk has carried a listing for the venue, though we could not confirm what is currently on sale.
- The office, which is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 6 pm, if you would rather ask in person.
Performances may sell out, so book early if you find one you want. Ticket prices vary by production, and we could not find a published price list, so check when you book rather than assuming a figure.
What to expect
Expect a working arts institution rather than a tourist venue, in a heritage building. Language, format and audience depend on the production, so read the listing carefully before you book.
Practical points:
- Arrive early, and confirm the venue entrance when you book.
- Confirm the start time and whether the show is suitable for children.
- Evening performances mean a late return; arrange your ride home in advance. Our Karachi at night guide has advice on getting around after dark.
The building question
The Hindu Gymkhana was built in 1925 by Seth Ramgopal Gourdhanandh Mohatta. After Partition the state took control of it as evacuee trust property, and the academy later moved in.
The Supreme Court has been hearing a case since 2014 brought on behalf of the Hindu community, which wants the building back. In 2018 the court directed the Sindh government to move NAPA out, and by 2024 it had not moved. In April 2024 the court asked the Sindh government to take steps to preserve the building. The outcome is undecided, so check that NAPA is still at this address before you travel, particularly if you are reading this much later. A call to the office or a look at its website will settle it.
Is it worth going?
If you enjoy theatre or live music and your dates line up with a production, yes. It is one of the more distinctive cultural evenings available in the city, and it is a different side of Karachi from the beaches and the food streets.
If your time is short, or nothing suitable is on, it is not worth building a trip around. For other cultural stops, see our Karachi heritage walk and guide to museums, or browse more on the experiences page.
Frequently asked questions
Where is NAPA in Karachi?
On M.R. Kiyani Road, Civil Lines, in the Hindu Gymkhana building.
Can the public attend NAPA performances?
Yes. NAPA presents plays, music and festivals for audiences as well as teaching students. Check its website and social media for dates.
How do I buy tickets for NAPA?
Look at NAPA's own channels first. A third-party ticketing site has also listed the venue. Prices differ by event.
What are NAPA's office hours?
Monday to Friday, 10 am to 6 pm, according to its website.
Is NAPA moving from the Hindu Gymkhana?
The Supreme Court has directed its relocation in the past, but as of the 2024 hearings it remained in the building. Confirm the address before you go.
