Loading...
Loading...
The festival is part of a joint project between the Jordanian Ministry of Culture and the Arab Theatre Institute, following a year of preparation. The programme began with specialised training for a core team of ministry directors and artists. Sixteen directors then travelled to governorates across the Kingdom to train participants, discover new talent, encourage the formation of theatre groups, and support productions. The Institute provided assistance to help these groups stage their work before competing in a revived festival that continues a long-interrupted journey.
In his opening address, the minister expressed pride in the partnership with the Arab Theatre Institute, describing it as one of Sharjah’s key cultural initiatives that reinforces openness to the wider Arab theatre landscape. He said the collaboration creates space for intellectual and critical dialogue that deepens and documents the amateur theatre experience. He stressed that the festival acts as an incubator for emerging talent capable of advancing theatre by building on the experience of pioneers, particularly as universities graduate increasing numbers of academically trained young practitioners.
He added that amateur theatre is one of the most important educational and cultural tools for younger generations, helping to build ethical awareness, encourage dialogue and acceptance of others, strengthen self-confidence, and foster cooperation, communication, teamwork and creativity.
Ismail Abdullah said the Institute partnered with the ministry to ensure that this movement, crowned by the festival, becomes a vital reservoir supplying the theatre sector with new young energies. He noted that amateur theatre in the governorates plays a central role in deepening culture’s contribution to community development.
He explained that the initiative represents the realisation of a long-standing vision first launched in 2019, when the concept and action plan were agreed. However, the COVID-19 pandemic halted the project for two years, delaying its implementation until a new plan was developed in 2024 and execution began in 2025. The Institute hopes the project will serve as a practical and scientific model that can be studied, evaluated and refined, paving the way for similar experiences in other Arab countries where amateur theatre forms the backbone of a developing theatre movement.
The festival features theatre groups from various Jordanian governorates competing for a range of awards presented by the Arab Theatre Institute to motivate participants and support a stronger future for amateur troupes.
Jordanian Artists Association President and director Mohammed Yousef Al Abbadi welcomed participants to Amman, describing it as a city rich in culture and art with strong Arab identity. He noted that theatre today is in a better position than in previous eras and said ambitious aspirations have encouraged Jordanian artists to strive for excellence, viewing the festival as another building block in the development of both professional and youth theatre. He also praised the efforts of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the Arab Theatre Institute, represented by its Secretary-General.
On the opening day, the Minister of Culture honoured both the Secretary-General of the Arab Theatre institute and the head of the Jordanian Artists Association in recognition of their contributions to the project. The programme also included performances by the Irbid Theatre Group, which presented The Last Moment, and the Ajloun Theatre Group, which staged The Train. Both productions showcased promising talent in writing, acting and directing.
Ten theatre groups will present ten productions representing ten Jordanian governorates from 9 to 14 February.
For an optimal experience, please
rotate your device to portrait mode.
