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The Saudi theater .. a continuous development, an ambitious artistic vision and initiatives that support “Abu Al -Fanoun”

The Saudi theater has witnessed a great renaissance in recent decades, as it has become an essential part of the cultural and artistic scene in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This development is due to the efforts of the Ministry of Culture, represented by the theater and performance arts body, which seeks to enhance theatrical production, develop local talents, and improve the infrastructure of theaters.
The academic interest in the theater reflects the Kingdom’s vision in supporting artistic creativity.
On the International Theater Day, “Today”, the memories of the development of the Saudi theater, which started about 80 years ago.
This development is due to the efforts of the Ministry of Culture, represented by the theater and performance arts body, which seeks to enhance theatrical production, develop local talents, and improve the infrastructure of theaters.
The academic interest in the theater reflects the Kingdom’s vision in supporting artistic creativity.
On the International Theater Day, “Today”, the memories of the development of the Saudi theater, which started about 80 years ago.
The first beginnings (1932 – 1960)
The features of the Saudi theater began to appear since 1932 AD, when the play “The Unjust itself” was presented by Hussein Siraj, which is the cornerstone of the Saudi theater. Schools also witnessed early attempts to theatrical performances, such as “between an ignorant and a learner” in 1929.
Actual launch (1960 – 1980)
This stage witnessed a remarkable development with the presentation of prominent theatrical performances, such as “The Price of Freedom” in 1969, in addition to establishing the role of fictional acting. Cultural societies also contributed to supporting the theatrical movement, and this period witnessed the emergence of a prominent Saudi book.
Modern theater (1980 – until now)
In the 1980s, the Saudi theater witnessed a wider spread, as distinguished works such as “under the chairs”, which showed talents such as Nasser Al -Qasabi and Abdullah Al -Sadhan, were produced. The theater also became part of national events, and the commercial theater and university theater flourished.
The Saudi Theater and Vision 2030
The Saudi Vision 2030 put the theater within its goals in the quality of life program, as the Ministry of Culture seeks through the theater and performance arts body to enhance performance arts locally and globally. The establishment of the national theater in 2019 is a qualitative shift in the sector.
Women in the Saudi theater
The women’s theater has witnessed a remarkable development, as women began composing, directing and acting. Among the most prominent women’s theatrical figures d. Abdullah Malah, who is the first Arab woman to obtain an honorary doctorate in the theater from the United Nations.
Initiatives supporting the Saudi theater
The Theater and Performing Arts Authority works to support theater through qualitative programs, such as:
- Research: A program that integrates art technology to enhance innovation in the theater.
- School Theater: A project that aims to enable teachers to train students in acting and directing skills in cooperation with the Australian University of Monash.
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