Dibba Al Hisn Theatre Fest continues into second night

Syrian Play "Khalas Fardi" captivates audience

On the second day of the festival, audiences enjoyed the Syrian play "Khalas Fardi," written and directed by Samer Mohammed Ismail, and performed by Raghad Salim and Mohammed Shamma. The play centers on "Adel," a 40-year-old playwright plagued by despair as he struggles to complete his script. His life is disrupted by Judy, a spirited 20-year-old who arrives under the pretext of cleaning his apartment but quickly becomes entangled in his world. Through their dialogue, themes of love, death, and hope emerge, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. Judy gradually takes on the persona of Layal, Adel’s lost lover, who died in a tragic car accident.

Depth of themes and  ontrasting dualities praised

A critical symposium followed the performance, moderated by Syrian writer Amina Abbas. Participants lauded the play for its exploration of contrasting themes—fantasy versus reality, joy versus sorrow, classical Arabic versus colloquial speech, and the poetic versus the mundane. These elements, they noted, enriched the narrative and heightened the visual and emotional intensity of the performance. The minimalist set, consisting of a small office and bookcase, and subtle lighting further accentuated the introspective tone of the play.

Director honoured at festival symposium

At the conclusion of the symposium, Syrian director Samer Mohammed Ismail received a certificate of appreciation from Major Abdullah Al-Tunaiji of the Dibba Al Hisn Comprehensive Police Department, which sponsored the second day's events.

Sharjah Arab Theatre Forum and Festival workshops enrich second day of events

Opening of the 20th Sharjah Arab Theatre Forum

The second day of the festival commenced at 5:00 PM with the launch of the 20th edition of the Sharjah Arab Theatre Forum, held under the theme "Theatre and Life." Emirati scenographer Walid Al Zaabi introduced and moderated the session, beginning with a tribute to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for his enduring support of the theatre movement across artistic, academic, and intellectual domains. Al Zaabi reflected on the forum’s legacy over two decades, noting the range of topics, theatrical generations, and critical contributions it has produced.

First presentation: Theatre as a mirror of life

Jordanian researcher Mays Al Zaabi delivered the first presentation, titled “The Father of the Arts and Life: A Study of New Aspects and Variables.” She argued that theatre serves as a mirror to societal complexities, far beyond a form of entertainment. Highlighting its role in fostering awareness and social cohesion, she cited examples such as Augusto Boal’s therapeutic theatre and a Jordanian study showing the art form’s positive impact on education. She also addressed modern challenges facing theatre, including digital competition, reduced funding, and shifting societal values, but affirmed its resilience and enduring relevance.

Second presentation: Theatre and the concept of “bare life”

Under the title “Theatre and Negative Life,” Tunisian researcher Dr Omar Alawi explored the philosophical notion of “bare life” as discussed by Giorgio Agamben, where individuals lose meaning under rigid societal norms. Citing the play Bartleby, Alawi highlighted how simple acts of refusal, such as the protagonist’s non-compliance, serve as powerful resistance. He asserted that theatre can help reclaim human essence and resist the dehumanisation of modern life.

Third presentation: Theatre through the lens of human existence

Egyptian researcher Bilal Elgamal presented a study titled “Theatre as a Mirror of Existence... From Beginnings to Extensions.” He outlined the evolution of theatre through three phases: Existence (primitive drama), Reality (classical and realist theatre), and Humanity (modern avant-garde). Elgamal discussed how theatre not only reflects but also shapes society, offering therapeutic relief and helping individuals navigate existential crises such as alienation and identity loss.

“School Theatre Directing” workshop

Alongside the forum, a "School Theatre Directing" workshop was held at the Dibba Al-Hisn Society for Culture, Arts, and Theatre, led by Tunisian director Dr Hatem Al-Maraoub. Around 40 participants attended the session, which was divided into theoretical and practical components. Dr Al-Maraoub explained foundational directing concepts, the transformation of literary texts into stage performances, and techniques for building theatrical characters using dramatic games. Attendees actively engaged in the exercises, and the session concluded with festival coordinator Aisha Al Hosani presenting a certificate of appreciation to the workshop leader.