Sharjah Ruler Unveils 9th Desert Theatre Festival 2025

H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the ninth Sharjah Desert Theatre Festival on Friday, joined by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. This year’s festival runs until December 17 and pays homage to Arab desert customs and theatrical arts.

The event kicked off with a performance of a play by the Sharjah Ruler, entitled “Al Barraq and Layla Al Afeefa”, presented in Al Kehaif. Sheikh Dr Sultan lauded the actors’ work, appreciating the poetic dialogue and the innovative use of modern techniques, which included cinematic elements and authentic representations featuring horses and camels. He commended director Mohammed Al Ameri for blending filmed sequences with live acting, showcasing the production's depth and quality.

The Ruler expressed that the play symbolizes the UAE on an international stage, competing alongside productions from other Arab nations. He reinforced that any accolade should reflect on the UAE as a whole rather than personal accomplishments or for Sharjah alone. Reminiscing about his directing experience dating back to 1954, he recalled productions that resonated deeply with audiences and emphasized the significance of meaningful theatre over superficial content.

The festival also featured traditional performances and segments celebrating Arab culture. Sheikh Dr Sultan emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent through initiatives such as the Sharjah Performing Arts Academy, which nurtures students and supports graduates in their theatrical journeys. He underlined the necessity for theatre to remain an open platform free from narrow regional ideologies, inspiring creativity and pride in cultural heritage.

The play portrays iconic tales from Arab poetry that emphasize themes of bravery, fidelity, and love for one’s homeland. Its vibrant imagery and eloquence, paired with dynamic stagecraft and video segments, captivated the audience. The production showcased leading actors from Sharjah and across the Arab region, including Ahmed Al Jasmi, Basel Yakhour, Ibrahim Salem, Abdullah Masoud, and Azza Zarour.

This festival edition, themed “Desert Theatre and the Aesthetics of Arab Folk Narratives”, delves into the richness of Arab folk tales, seeking to broaden the artistic and technical aspects of desert theatre. The events will run until December 17, celebrating the essence of Arab heritage and theatrical advancement.