"The Wooden Boy" evokes nostalgia in the audience’s hearts

The opening ceremony featured several notable figures, including Ismail Abdullah, the President of the Theatre Association, who is also the Secretary-General of the Arab Theatre Institute and the festival's president. Other attendees included Ahmed Al Jasmi, Vice Chairman of the Theatre Association and Chairman of the Sharjah National Theatre, Ahmed Bu Rahima, the Director-General of the Theatre Department at the Sharjah Department of Culture, and Dr. Habib Ghuloom, who is the director of the festival.

In his introduction, Abdullah Mohammed Abdullah highlighted the most important aspects of the nineteenth edition of the festival, praising the generous and unlimited support provided by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to theatre in general, and to children's theatre and the Emirates Children's Theatre Festival in particular.

The ceremony kicked off with a screening of a documentary that highlighted the festival's journey since its beginnings in 2005. The film celebrated key moments from past events and featured a short biography of this year's honoree, the well-respected Emirati artist Abdullah Rashid. He started his work in theater back in 1984 and has spent over 25 years focusing on children's theater. Some of his most popular plays include "The Good Farmer" and "The Journey of Knowledge." Abdullah Rashid received a special recognition during the opening ceremony.

Additionally, the event introduced the adult jury, led by Professor Waleed Al Zaabi, along with members Ibrahim Salem, Mohammed Saeed Al Sulti, Abdulrahman Al Mulla, and Mohammed Juma Ali. There was also a children's jury introduced, which included Noor Hamad Abdulrazzaq, Sheikha Saif Aziz, and Issa Abdullah Al Mazmi.

The Wooden Boy

"The Wooden Boy" is an enchanting retelling of the classic story of Pinocchio, where a kind carpenter dreams of having a son to keep him company as he grows old. One day, a fairy grants his wish, bringing a wooden puppet to life. This puppet, named Pinocchio, eventually wishes to become a real boy. However, like many children, he feels nervous about starting school. In his fear, he runs away and gets into trouble, ignoring the carpenter’s advice and warnings.

The carpenter, along with other puppets that have come to life, sets out on a quest to find Pinocchio. They manage to rescue him from some mean circus owners who only care about making money. Thanks to the fairy's help, Pinocchio and the carpenter find their way back to each other, restoring the family bond.

The performance featured talented actors like Mohammed Dashti, Nasr El-Din Abidi, and many more, who brought the story to life with their energetic and heartfelt performances. The hour-long show captivated both children and adults, many of whom remembered the story from their own childhoods.

Directed by Majed Al-Muaini, the show was visually stunning, filled with live music that added to the atmosphere. The talented chorus performed expressive dances that enhanced the story, while the actors utilized costumes and set designs to transport the audience into this magical world.

This production, with contributions from various artists for costumes and lighting, carried important messages for children. It highlighted the significance of education, listening to parents, and the protective role of the family. The story ended on a positive note, reminding everyone that good always triumphs over evil and emphasizing the importance of justice.

The Emirates Children's Theatre Festival will continue showcasing performances until December 27th, featuring special guests from Rubu’ Qarn Theatre and Performing Arts Association, along with a closing ceremony to celebrate the talented artists involved.