STD intellectual forum discusses director's visual identity

March 28, 2026 / 6:32 PM

Sharjah24: The first session of the intellectual forum accompanying the 35th edition of Sharjah Theatre Days (STD) was held on Saturday under the title “The Visual Identity of the Theatre Director Between Stability and Transformation,” at the guest residence, in the presence of Ahmed Bu Rahima, Director of the Theatre Department at the Sharjah Department of Culture and festival director.

The session featured three presentations by Lubna Malika from Tunisia, Dr Mohamed Abdel Moneim, and Dr Omar Farag from Egypt, and was moderated by Emirati theatre practitioner Abdullah Masoud.

Lubna Malika began with a paper titled “The Actor’s Impact on Shaping Visual Identity,” emphasising that the actor helps create stage space and atmosphere through movement and energy, forming strong visual imagery even without intricate scenography. She cited her experiences in plays such as “Fifty” and “I Dreamt of You Yesterday.”

Exploring scenography and directing style

Dr Mohamed Abdel Moneim discussed “Visual Identity in My Directorial Project: Testimony and Vision,” defining visual identity as a recurring aesthetic pattern that forms the director’s creative signature, particularly through scenographic elements. He also questioned how these techniques evolve when moving from traditional theatre spaces to open environments.

Technology reshaping theatre aesthetics

Dr Omar Faraj presented “Technology and the Visual Identity of the Arab Theatre Director,” analysing the impact of digital tools on theatrical structure, referencing the play “A Family That Got Blocked” by Mohamed Sobhi. He noted that digital advancements have redefined theatrical aesthetics, making visual imagery increasingly influenced by technology.

The session sparked lively discussions on the challenges of shaping visual identity and balancing personal style with innovation in contemporary theatre.