H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Inaugurates 8th Desert Theatre Festival in Sharjah

Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the 8th edition of the Desert Theatre Festival on Friday in the Al Khohaif area of Sharjah. The festival, celebrating the richness of Arabian desert traditions and theatrical art, will run until December 17, 2024.
The opening ceremony was attended by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, alongside Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Head of the Ruler’s Office; Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Head of the Statistics and Community Development Department; Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Suburbs Affairs Department; as well as senior officials, artists, and cultural figures.
As part of the festival’s commencement, His Highness witnessed the performance of his own theatrical work, “The Robe Dyed in Blood,” staged by the Sharjah National Theatre Group and directed by Mohammed Al Ameri. The three-act play explores the life and legacy of the Arab poet Bashir bin ‘Awana, portraying themes of bravery, pride, and emotional depth. The play’s narrative begins with the dramatic moment when the poet seeks to marry his cousin Fatima, illustrating his courage, chivalry, and eloquence through poetry and performance.
The production featured a talented cast of local and Arab actors, supported by an extensive team of performers, technicians, and artists. The spectacle included poetry recitations, storytelling, equestrian displays, and other art forms reflective of authentic Arab cultural heritage.
The Desert Theatre Festival serves as an open theatrical space that highlights the aesthetic and cultural significance of the Arabian desert. It aims to preserve and celebrate the traditions and heritage of the region through the medium of performing arts.
This year’s festival will showcase theatrical performances from across the Arab world:
- December 15: The Tunisian play “Palace of Dust” by the group Fann Ad-Dafateen.
- December 16: Jordan’s “Al-Deera” by the Raff Performance Arts Group.
- December 17: Egypt’s “Al-Zeina” by Studio 77 and Mauritania’s “Al-Hakeem” by the Eihaa Performing Arts Group.
Each performance will be followed by critical discussions to delve into the themes, perspectives, and artistic styles presented on stage.
Additionally, intellectual forums will be held on December 14 and 15, under the theme “Desert Theatre: Experience and Awareness.” These discussions will explore the festival’s influence on the Arab theatrical scene, examining its practical and theoretical contributions.
The Desert Theatre Festival continues to position Sharjah as a beacon of cultural heritage, preserving and advancing Arab traditions through the power of art and storytelling.