Once a leading form of entertainment in Pakistan; theatre industryis successfully on a revival track.Some of the most creative acts that have hit the theaters so far include the classic adaptation of Anwar Maqsood’s ‘AanganTehra’ and a vivid celebration of music and dance‘CinderJutt’ by Javed Ahmed Saeedi to name a few.

[img]

Another musical play that’s creating a buzz around the townisRaheelLodhi’s ‘Sorry Juliet, Paaro Loves Romeo’. This play is a musical comedy sponsored by the telecommunication giant Nokia, who have always encouraged entertainment through such generous efforts. The media partner for this venture is the leading advertising company, Synergy Group whohavedone exceptionallywell in contributing their bit in promoting the entertainment industry. “Sorry Juliet! Paaro Loves Romeo” is being performed at the Arts Council, on-going from 8th of June till the 7th of July 2013.

The bilingual play was positioned on a bet – a bet between love and flirt. It shows howsomething as spiritual and genuine as love is being exploited by our young generation for the fulfillment of their ulterior motives. Packed with memorable punch lines by flamboyant characters like Softy, Romeo,Makhan Singh,Chota Don and others, the play manages to leave the audience with a memorable journey of two and a half hour of fun, laughter, music and love.

The cast of”Sorry Juliet! Paaro Loves Romeo” is aneffective mix of experience and originality.SaqibSameer, an established name of the theater industry steels the show with his power pact performance as ‘Makkhan Singh’. His Punjabi accent and spontaneity leaves the audience enthralled. Paro, the Desi girl and Juliet, the epitome of love and eloquence manages to take the stage with theirdaring dancing acts and beautiful smiles. Softy, Juliet’s best friend captivated the audience with his unconventional personality and perfect dialogue delivery.

Pakistan’s emerging choreographer Veera managed to pull off six dance performances during the entire play. Veera and his dance team performed some of the latest Bollywood songs and international soundtracks, glazed with amazing stunts, legwork and body techniques. The closing dance performance with superb light effects, fluorescent torches and spellbinding dance moves was simply breathtaking.

Even though at times the script seemed a little loose and lasted a little longer than anticipated, the dances managed to capture the audience’s interest. Such theatrical performances serve as a perfect escape from constant stress and the turmoil that our public faces regularly.

Our best wishes to Juliet and Paro – may Romeo makes the best choice!

LG Electronics (LG) received a special award as Global Technology Innovator 2013 yesterday at the Plus X Award Night in Cologne, Germany. The Plus X Award is one of the most significant European innovation prizes for technology, sport and lifestyle and serves as a seal of approval for high-quality brands. It was the first time in the Plus X Award’s ten-year history that awards went to 17 products from a single manufacturer. The LG products, including the flagship smartphone Optimus G and the first ULTRA HD TV, were consistent winners in the categories of Innovation, High Quality, Design, Ecology and Ease of Use.

[img]

“We are delighted to have received so many awards. We strive to develop products which will set new standards with regard to efficiency, design and environmental compatibility and the Global Technology Innovator Award and the Plus X Awards are a testament of our success,” said Kiju Song, CEO of LG Electronics Germany, who accepted the awards at a ceremony in Cologne. “Our new products demonstrate an ‘everything is possible’ attitude while succeeding in making people’s lives a little better every day. This is what LG is about.”

Highlights of LG’s key products recognized at the Plus X Award include:

ULTRA HD TV for Top Picture Quality
The ULTRA HD TV 84LM960V received several awards in the categories Innovation, High Quality, Design and Ease of Use. With an 84-inch (213.4 cm) screen, it is the first ULTRA HD TV worldwide, offering a stunning visual experience and numerous features which enhance convenience and ease of use. With four times the resolution of conventional full HD TV panels, the LG ULTRA HD TV creates an unbelievable picture quality.

LG Optimus G, Smartphone with Elegant Design
The LG Smartphone Optimus G has been winning over users worldwide since the end of 2012, and now it has won over the Plus X Award jury as well. The premium smartphone was awarded top honors in the categories of High Quality, Design and Ease of Use. It is the first LG smartphone to feature the new brilliant True HD IPS Plus 4.7-inch display for an exceptionally sharp picture. The Optimus G also features eye-catching Gorilla® Glass 2 on the front and reverse side, giving the smartphone optimal protection against scratches. And the 13-megapixel camera allows for a perfect snapshot every time.

Eco-Friendly Side-By-Side GS 9366 NECZ
In the Home Appliances category, the side-by-side refrigerator GS 9366 NECZ received honors for features such as its environmental compatibility and high energy efficiency. Thanks to LG’s Linear Compressor technology, the refrigerator has an A++ energy efficiency rating and uses up to 40 percent less energy than comparable appliances with an A rating. The Smart Eco Door and the storage compartment behind it make it possible to easily access frequently used foods without having to fully open the refrigerator. Less cooled air escapes, foods stay fresh longer, and energy consumption is significantly reduced.

EA93 Monitor in Ultra-Wide Format
The EA93 UltraWide Monitor is the first monitor in the world with a picture format of 21:9. The 29-inch (73.6 cm) screen not only offers ample space to display documents, pictures and films, but also has a four-screen split function and fully covers the sRGB color space as well. Along with high-quality and true-to-life color rendering, the monitor offers a number of innovative features that fulfill multimedia dreams, whether in the office or the living room. It comes as no surprise that the monitor won several awards in various categories, including Innovation and Ease of Use.
Plus X Award: Seal of Approval for High-Quality Brands
For the tenth year in a row, the Plus X Award Jury, made up of renowned and independent trade journalists and personalities from 25 industries, decided the recipients of the Plus X Award. Particular emphasis is placed on products which are innovative and viable for the future and feature excellent technology, exceptional design and simple operating concepts. The jury also considers ergonomics, ecology and functionality.

The following LG products received a Plus X Award:
Home Entertainment
• LG Smart TV 55LA8609 in the categories High Quality, Design and Ease of Use
• LG Smart TV 55LA7909 in the categories High Quality, Design and Ease of Use
• LG ULTRA HD TV 84LM960 in the categories Innovation, High Quality, Design and Ease of Use
• LG Soundbar NB4530A in the categories Design and Ease of Use
• LG Audio System CM3430W in the categories Design and Ease of Use
• LG Portable Speaker ND8630 in the categories Design and Ease of Use
• LG Blu-ray Player BP730 in the categories Innovation, High Quality, Design and Ease of Use

Monitors
• LG Monitor 29EA93 in the categories Innovation, High Quality, Design and Ease of Use
• LG Monitor 23ET83 in the categories High Quality, Design and Ease of Use
• LG Monitor HECTO in the categories Innovation, High Quality and Design

Home Appliances
• LG Washer-Dryer F1695RD in the categories High Quality, Ease of Use and Ecology
• LG HomBot Square 3.0 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner (VR6270LVMB) in the categories High Quality, Design, Ease of Use and Functionality
• LG Side-by-Side Refrigerator GS9366NECZ in the categories High Quality, Design, Ease of Use and Ecology

Mobile
• LG Smartphone OPTIMUS G (E975) in the categories High Quality, Design and Ease of Use

Solar
• Mono X NeoN (300NC1) solar panel in the categories High Quality and Ecology

Lighting
• LG SlimART in the categories Design and Ecology
• LG LED Bulb (12.8W) in the category Ecology

In a one of its kind collaboration ZONG – the digital partner of the nation will be providing Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) with a short code service through which ZONG customers can register themselves as blood donors by sending “reg” on 2258 after which they will be contacted by the Red Crescent in time of need.

Along with this Zong will be launching a campaign “I am a Blood Donor” for creating awareness about blood donation. Apart from this, a blood donation camp at Zong office premises in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi to commemorate ‘World Blood Donation Day’.

Amongst many other initiatives taken by ZONG under their corporate social responsibility philosophy, the telecom giant will also broadcast PRCS blood donation awareness text messages to its users’ base in the main cities of the country.

Speaking about this unique collaboration Mr. Feng Tuixian, CFO, ZONG said, “It is an honour for us to be a part of this noble cause. Most of us don’t realize the importance of having healthy blood cells but for those who need it in case of blood diseases and accidents know the value of this lifeline.”

Dr. Kamran Mushtaq, Director Training and Health PRCS said, “This year’s campaign of World Blood Donor’s Day, will focus on the value of donated blood to the patient, not only in saving life, but also in helping people live longer and more productive lives. PRCS and Zong are working in close collaboration in the development and implementation of safe blood transfusion reforms”.

Through the collaboration ZONG will generate a list of blood donor indicating details such as name, age, gender and city name. This data base will be forwarded to PRCS to manage blood supply in case of any emergency shortfall or for routine blood requirements.

LG Electronics (LG) announced that its ColorPrime (27EA83) monitor has been named the “Best Photo Monitor” of 2013 by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA). Ideal for filmmakers, photographers and graphics professionals, LG’s award-winning monitor features In-Plane Switching (IPS) display technology, an incredibly high resolution and a wide color palette.

[img]

“We are truly honored to receive TIPA recognition for our ColorPrime monitor,” said Il-geun Kwon, senior vice president of LG Electronics’ IT Business Unit. “This imaging industry award reaffirms the exceptional qualities of LG’s advanced graphics power-house. With wide quad high definition (WQHD) resolution and sophisticated calibration options, the ColorPrime offers the superior level of visual accuracy required for detailed graphics and imaging work. LG will continue to produce the most technologically advanced monitors available, taking picture quality to dazzling new heights.”

The LG ColorPrime delivers astounding picture quality, boasting the incredible clarity of WQHD (2560 x 1440) resolution and the ability to accurately reproduce 99 percent of the Adobe RGB color space. The monitor can also be rotated 90 degrees, enabling users to choose the screen orientation that best suits the specific demands of their work. Each 27EA83 monitor is factory calibrated and comes with a certificate confirming that it has been fine-tuned by an LG imaging expert. To further ensure consistent and accurate color performance, LG offers an external color calibrator that has been optimized for use with the ColorPrime.

The ColorPrime monitor achieves true-to-life picture quality thanks to LG’s advanced IPS display technology, which also helps to reduce user eyestrain. With an impressive 178 degree viewing angle, image quality and color fidelity remains consistent, regardless of where the viewer is positioned. Meanwhile, the 4-Screen Split and Dual Link-Up features take multitasking to the next level. 4-Screen Split lets users divide the 27EA83’s display into four segments, which can quickly arranged into a variety of useful configurations. LG’s clever Dual Link-Up function makes it possible for users to work with files or programs from two different devices at the same time. In short, the ColorPrime monitor is a comprehensive imaging solution for filmmakers, photographers, designers and other graphics industry professionals.

TIPA, which comprises 29 member magazines from 13 different countries, is one of the most influential photographic and imaging press associations in the world. Its members convene annually to vote on the best products of the year, assessing each device based on a number of criteria including technological and design innovation, ease-of-use, and value for money. The TIPA awards are comprised of 40 separate categories with only one winner being announced for each. This year’s top products, including LG’s ColorPrime monitor, will be officially recognized at the 2013 TIPA awards ceremony, set to be held in Tokyo, Japan in June.

Theatre is a valuable mode of expression as well as entertainment. Just like RAZCO’s previous productions, “Sorry Juliet! Paaro Loves Romeo” carries a positive and inspiring message for the audience and leaves them feeling amused and light-hearted.

[img]

The Executive Director and Producer of the play is the talented and well known Raheel Khan Lodhi assisted by Sonia Tiwana. Raheel, the theatre guru has been involved with the industry for almost a decade and has directed as well as produced extremely successful, leading plays such as, “The Happy Prince” & “Winds of Change”.

The play is intended as a mouthpiece for the value of love as opposed to non-serious flirting; an unfortunate phenomenon of the times we live in. The concept of love has largely deviated from its conservative perception of being an emotion that takes over one’s life. Whereas, the current generation is always concerned with what life has to offer rather than performing those acts that were regarded as noble and chivalrous back in the day. Disloyalty to ones lover was against the social norm of that time and regarded as the downfall society.

“Veera” choreographed the phenomenal dances and the veteran of the theatre industry, “Saqib Sameer” plays the role of “Makhan Singh”. Other cast members include “Aadi” as “Softy” and “Nabeel” as “Choota Don”. The brilliant cast of “Sorry Juliet Romeo loves Paro” will blow the minds of their audience with their spectacular performance.

For further inquiries visit http://www.facebook.com/paarolovesromeo

TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe release an exclusive video of their glamorous launch in Pakistan which was held on March 7, 2013 in Karachi.

The exciting launch video features Pakistani fashion industry’s select group of coveted fashionistas, celebrities and media personalities, as well as TONI&GUY HMW Global Hair Ambassador Mark Hampton, who flew in from London exclusively for the launch.

[img]

The dazzling event, executed in classic British style, features the launch of Hair Meet Wardrobe Cleanse&Nourish, Prep and Styling range. The four style collections: Classic, Glamour, Casual and Men’s range have been developed around timeless fashion themes, making every style possible.

Following the Global Style Collective trend, a Local Style Collective was announced; a team of influential hair & fashion focused ambassadors who embody the Hair Meet Wardrobe philosophy. Local Style Collective include Feeha Jamshed, Asmaa Mumtaz, Meher Tareen & Samina Khan, Raana Khan, Alyzeh Rahim and Nadir Feroz & Maha Burney. Exciting highlights of this star studded evening included a runway on which models, styled by Feeha Jamshed and Mark Hampton, take the ramp by storm; and a classic performance by Zoe Viccaji to the tune of British bands.

TONI&GUY HMW is a premium hair care brand synonymous with rich cultural heritage in hair fashion, with 409 salons in 44 countries worldwide. As the official haircare sponsor of London Fashion Week, it reasserts itself as the instigator of top to toe styling. Hair Meet Wardrobe embodies the philosophy that style is about the entire look from head to toe & the attitude that goes with it. With Hair Meet Wardrobe, TONI&GUY bring looks right off the ramp and fuses them with street style, enabling fashion to inspire individual style.

Spearheading the Hair Meet Wardrobe philosophy is TONI&GUY Global Hair Ambassador Mark Hampton, the face of TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe and one of UK’s most sought after hair stylist.

In 2009, TONI&GUY retail hair care business was acquired by Unilever adding to their impressive array of beauty brands. 2013 not only marks TONI&GUY’s 50 years in the global hair and fashion industry, but also the eclectic hair care brand’s glamorous launch in Pakistan.
The exclusive video captures the essence of what TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe philosophy is: edgy and inimitable. We invite you to get inspired.

Syntax Communications, one of Pakistan’s leading PR agencies, has entered into an exclusive affiliate relationship with Edelman, the world’s largest public relations firm. With this exclusive affiliation, Syntax Communications has become the sole representative of Edelman in Pakistan. Through the partnership, Syntax Communications aims to take public relations to the next level in Pakistan by introducing international best practices and the creativity that Edelman is known for.

[img]

Mr. Ali Mandviwalla, COO of Synergy Group, the holding company for Syntax Communications, said, “The alliance between Syntax Communications and Edelman is a strategic partnership that will have a long-term impact on PR in Pakistan and the way it is perceived. An international alliance with the world’s top-ranked communications firm will allow Syntax Communications to achieve the highest standard of excellence in communications services. Our affiliation with Edelman is a stepping stone that will better equip us to deliver exceptional PR services to our valuable clients”.

Robert Holdheim, Managing Director of Edelman India said, “Syntax Communications is yet another important addition to our South Asia network. With this exclusive affiliation, we are strongly placed to undertake high quality, cross border programmes that address our clients’ regional business objectives. We look forward to a great partnership.”

The partnership is expected to bring the highest PR industry standards to the market and a greater variety of resources so that Syntax Communications will become a game changer for the industry.

LG Electronics (LG) today announced the launch of the latest DJ music device, with the most powerful sound, the LG CM9730 mini Hi-Fi system, known as the X-BOOM. This new LG X-Boom promises to be a huge success amongst the music community as it is specifically designed for music lovers interested in the scratch right jog dial and passion to be a DJ in their homes.

[img]

The X-BOOM allows easy control and automation in mixing music using sound effects such as flanger, phaser, chorus and delay while also creating beats with backspin, crossfade, and beatbox or using scratch and voice sampling. Music lovers will enjoy songs on a totally different level as it boasts six beat-box, five voice samples and seven smart DJ effects, Latin EQ and dual USB. Additionally, the X-BOOM’s mini HiFi system features the world’s most powerful sound with 2300W RMS and 25000W PMPO that allow users to enjoy a potent sound output.

“We believe the X-BOOM will prove to be an important stepping stone for young musicians and passionate DJs who want to make a mark in the vibrant Middle East music community. At LG, we believe that music brings people together and the X-BOOM will do that with its easy to learn controls and great sound.” said Mr. D.Y. Kim, President of LG Electronics Gulf FZE.

The X-BOOM also boasts brilliant red color illumination on its LED speakers that match the beats of the music. Consumers can create their own playlist as well as eliminate the interval between songs by adding exciting beat box effect between songs.

ZONG, the first international brand of China mobile, recently promoted emerging designers at the PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week 2013. Ever since its inception in Pakistan, ZONG has been trying to foster the talented youth of Pakistan through various initiatives at numerous platforms.

This year, ZONG decided to nurture the emerging designers who wanted to showcase their creations at the PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week 2013. The lucky designers who participated in the ‘ZONG Promotes Emerging Talent’ show on Day-4 of PSFW were Arooj Ahmed, Daniyal Mubarik, Hamza Bokhari, Mahgul Rashid, Mohsin Ali and Schehrezade Sohail Muzammil.

[img]

Speaking at the event, CFO of ZONG Mr. Feng Tuixian said, “We have always tried to encourage the capable people to come forward and show the world that Pakistan is full of ideas, flair and positivity.” He further added that ZONG’s efforts do not only represent promotion of technology in the country; they also symbolize the Company’s commitment to Pakistan.

This year the PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week 2013 showcased a diversity of luxury/prèt collections from 47 designers, brands and textile houses over a period of 4 days, defining and presenting trends for 2013, focusing specifically on the regions' long hot summer months.

ZONG has supported sports, education and technology at several levels in the past. Last year they had signed a partnership agreement with Manchester United football club to bring the estimated 10 million football fans in Pakistan closer to Old Trafford.Under the same program ZONG sent 32 young football players to Manchester United Soccer School, Abu Dhabi for a 1 week training camp. Apart from this ZONG has also supported domestic T20 cricket, Shandur Polo Festival and Quaid-e-Azam Polo Championship.

Striving to provide ever greater value to its customers, Pakistan State Oil (PSO) has reached yet another technological milestone by introducing chip-based Smart Cards. These fuel cards are the first of their kind to be launched by any OMC in Pakistan.

The formal launch ceremony was organized under the theme of “Your World Just Got Smarter!" at DHA Golf Club, Karachi. The launch event featured high-profile guests and decision makers from across the corporate sector.

[img]

Introduced with the objective of providing increased convenience for PSO card customers, these fuel cards incorporate added security features in the form of chip-based encryption technology which secures all customer information residing in the chip from unauthorized access. Usage of these cards will benefit corporate customers by facilitating administrative supervision, economizing fuel expenses and selection of customized cards options.

Speaking at the occasion, CEO & MD PSO, Mr. Naeem Yahya said, “Through the launch of this Smart Card, PSO has further underlined its standing as a customer-centric company which is continually introducing new products and services to provide ever greater benefits to the consumers at large.” During his speech the MD also reiterated PSO’s vision of transforming itself into an integrated Energy Company. He stated that in its efforts to achieve this goal, the nation’s leading public company has been introducing new innovative ideas to offer increased value for its customers.

The launch event started with an amazing LED dance performance by ActOne which was followed by an award ceremony in which leading corporate sectors of the country were awarded by Pakistan State Oil. The launch event also featured Laser Dance performance by a Srilankan performer. Acclaimed Pakistan rock band, Strings fueled up the audience with their electric performance.

Being the perfect fuel management solution for corporate entities as well as individual customers, PSO’s new chip-based fuel cards will undoubtedly set new standards for OMCs across Pakistan. With a well-established trend of innovation and continual improvement in customer service provision, PSO is committed to responsibly providing for the fuel needs of the nation.