Qatar Hosts Panel Discussion Celebrating Arab Theater Day

Doha, The Gulf Observer: Qatar’s Ministry of Culture organized a distinguished panel discussion at Bait Al-Hikma Hall yesterday to commemorate Arab Theater Day, shedding light on the rich history and evolution of Arab theatre, and the impact of regional events on this significant cultural form.

Moderated by the esteemed media personality, Tayseer Abdullah, the panel featured the insightful contributions of author and director Dr. Saad Burshid, and Syrian critic Hanan Kassab.

The session delved into the historical journey of Arab theatre, exploring its various stages and the profound influence of events in Arab countries on the evolution of theatrical expressions. The participants engaged in a comprehensive discussion, sharing their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing Arab theatre in the contemporary context.

The panel concluded with a series of recommendations, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the global presence of Qatari theatre. Among the proposed measures is the initiation of official correspondence with relevant authorities such as UNESCO and other international organizations, aiming to promote and represent Qatari theatre on the global stage.

In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), Dr. Saad Burshid highlighted the inception of Qatari theatre groups in 1972 and their debut on the Arab stage during the first Arab festival in 1974 with the play “Only Once,” written by Ali Mirza and directed by Hani Sanobar. He elaborated on the establishment of the Theater Festival for the Arab Gulf States by the State of Qatar, positioning it as a significant milestone in the cultural landscape.

Hanan Kassab emphasized the vitality of Arab theatre, asserting that as long as there is a celebration dedicated to its day, it will continue to thrive. The discussion centered on the Qatari presence in international and Arab bodies, with a focus on the valuable contributions this represents for Qatari theatre.

Expressing gratitude for the recommendations generated during the panel discussion, Maryam Yassin Al Hammadi, Director of the Department of Culture and Arts at the Ministry of Culture, called for the implementation of these suggestions through a strategic plan supported by the Ministry. This aligns with the directives of Minister of Culture, H E Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani, to further enhance the cultural standing of Qatari theatre.

Arab Theater Day, observed on January 10th each year, was officially designated in 2008 following the founding meeting of the Arab Theater Authority. The panel discussion stands as a testament to the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to fostering dialogue, preserving cultural heritage, and advancing the vibrant landscape of Arab theatre.