Theme for a dream

Mebhoob Studios Mumbai came alive on December 14 as the well-lit ambience set the mood for Johnnie Walker The Journey. This was the first edition of the day-long fest that saw filmmakers, theatre performers, musicians and artistes converge under one roof for an enriching experience.

For those with a cultural bent of mind, there was no better place to soak in a unique interactive experience. The brand had hosted what they called a ‘pioneering platform’ where the audience could engage in an interactive conversation with eminent filmmakers like John N Hart.

It was a free flowing venue and guests could walk around and savour the mood, and watch a show of their choice.

Qaushik Mukherjee’s critically acclaimed film 'Tasher Desh' was screened for those with eclectic tastes. This was followed by a engaging session with the director.

Many guests, then hopped across to an indoor stage to catch a fascinating show put up by the The Handspring Puppet Company. The show with sound and light effects and plenty of shadow play had the audience enthralled right through this 80-minute performance. By popular demand, another round of the show was held later in the evening for guests, who missed the earlier act.

And for the wandering souls, Emel Mathlouthi’s deeply mesmerising voice cast listeners in a spell as they found themselves walking in the direction of the open air stage, where the lady crooned magical melodies all through the evening.

That’s not all, there was a large open air venue where the bar, and food counters were set up for guests to quench their thirst and satiate their appetite.

Round tables with chairs ensured that those who got in early had a place to set and watch the Omaggio Performing Company’s dance troupe. These dancers’ acrobatic moves replete with a man running around on high stills gave the fest a ‘village fair’ feel.

But the grand finale and what die hard fans looked forward to most was The Alan Parsons Live project concert, which began bang on time at 10.30 pm in an indoor venue. The troupe belted out popular favourites and the packed to the brim venue was witness to the fact that the first edition of Johnnie Walker The Journey’s fest was a resounding success!