Sharjah 24: The 18th edition of the UAE Children's Theatre Festival concluded its activities on Wednesday, 25 December, with a joyful closing ceremony attended by the festival president, Mr. Ismail Abdullah, festival director, Dr. Habib Ghulom, and a large crowd of theatre troupe members and attendees.
The ceremony expressed profound gratitude from the theatrical community to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his significant support of Emirati theatre, particularly his continued focus on children's theatre. During the event, the festival recognised the adult and children's juries, as well as the five local theatre troupes that participated in this edition, along with the festival's sponsors.
Festival hosts acknowledged the dedication of His Highness in nurturing this vital cultural sector, emphasising the significant role of his unwavering commitment to the arts, especially for young audiences.
The head of the jury, Mr. Walid Al Zaabi, presented the committee's report, which commended the high level of performances throughout the festival. He highlighted the strong connection between the audience and the stage and praised the emerging talent in the theatrical community. The jury also noted the diversity of the productions, their artistic and intellectual references, and suggested that future submissions be carefully monitored and timed to align with the unique nature of children's theatre.
Award Highlights:
Ras Al Khaimah National Theatre took home the prestigious Best Play Award, along with several other accolades:
- Best Supporting Actor Award (Male): Mohamed Ishaq ("Shared")
- Best Lighting: Ibrahim Al Hammadi
- Best Music & Sound Effects: Fadil Al Hamidi
- Best Costume Design: Zahra Al Hammadi
- Best Direction: Adnan Al Blooshi
Meanwhile, Sharjah Modern Theatre won the Children's Jury Award for Best Play, in addition to:
- Best Playwright: Ahmed Al Majid
- Best Lead Actress: Nevin Madi ("Shared")
- Best Supporting Actor: Basel Al Tamimi ("Shared")
- Best Supporting Actress: Mashail Al Shihi
- Best Makeup: Milana Rasoul
Other awards included Best Stage Design for Khalil Abu Haltam of the play "Forest Circus" by Khorfakkan Theatre, which also earned the jury's special recognition for Abdullah Al Hareebi. Additionally, Dubai's Al Ahli Theatre received the Best Lead Actress Award for Shahd Hafith ("Shared") in "The Book of Wishes", along with Best Lead Actor for Abdullah Sanqoor.
This year’s festival shone a spotlight on exceptional talent and creativity, ensuring a bright future for Emirati theatre in the children’s cultural sector.
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