Experimental Theatre

On 12th July 2025, I had the privilege of watching the iconic play “Jisne Lahore Nahi Dekhya” at the Experimental Theatre, NCPA Mumbai, and it turned out to be one of the most emotionally stirring experiences I’ve had in a long time. The play, directed by the late Dinesh Thakur, written by the acclaimed Asghar Wajahat, and enriched with heartfelt lyrics by Nida Fazli, was performed with depth and honesty, especially by the lead actress Priita Mathur, who brought her character to life with powerful grace and restraint. The story—set against the backdrop of Partition—was personal for me. As I sat in the first row, just a few feet away from the performers, I couldn’t help but think of my grandmother who came to India from Lahore during that time. The play beautifully captured the pain, displacement, and quiet dignity of those who lost their homes and yet carried on with resilience. There were moments that genuinely moved me to tears—especially as I watched from such an intimate distance, where every expression and silence hit harder. The Experimental Theatre at NCPA deserves special mention for creating such a warm, immersive atmosphere. The audio and lighting design was subtle yet effective, never overpowering the rawness of the performance. The seating arrangement, even in a compact setting, allowed for excellent visibility and closeness to the stage. The theatre staff were extremely courteous and helpful—from guiding us to our seats to ensuring a comfortable experience throughout. Overall, the evening felt more like a shared human experience than just a stage performance. It reminded me how theatre, at its best, doesn’t just entertain—it makes you remember, reflect, and feel deeply. “Jisne Lahore Nahi Dekhya” is not just a play; it's a tribute to the spirit of survival, empathy, and lost homes—and watching it at NCPA's Experimental Theatre only enhanced its emotional impact.

Nice compact theatre for small events such as stand up comedy and smaller music events. Part of the larger NCPA Complex along with the Tata Theatre and the Godrej Dance Theatre. Comfortable seats and good air-conditioning. While car parking is available, it is often full and difficult to get unless you reach quite early. Reasonably priced beverages and snacks.

Nice and compact theatre. The acoustics are not so great but the view from most seats is fine.. host some decent plays

The NCPA Experiemental Theatre is a great place to perform for all kinds of artists because of its seating, which lets the artist have a close proximity to the audience. This is a snipet of an excellent performance by young but accomplished classical artists. Mumbai Fuzikk is a group of performers that have come together to create some creative, innovative work without losing the classical touch. Aditya Kalyanpur, Ninad Daithankar and Shikhar Qureshi are such wonderful young

Went there to watch the "Constellations" played by Ahana Kumra and Kunal Roy Kapoor...was stunned by the tenacity and acting of the artists, as the same scenes and dialogues are repeated in different moods, different reactions...basically an element of parallel universe is created through the play and the different reactions and emotions for the same initiation is to showcase, how people in different universe will react under the same circumstances

Excellent ambiance and facilities for staging what one imagines for their theatre.

Good seating capacity but I just felt it was a big dull. The atmosphere could be made a little more happening and the place could use a little restructuring

One of the best places to experience top acts from all over the country and beyond! They have brilliant engineers manning light and sound, that truly elevate the show ♥️