The Arab Theatre Authority is actively exploring ways to enhance its collaboration with the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States. Through a recent meeting in Riyadh, key stakeholders discussed the development of existing programs aimed at advancing the role of school theatre. This strategic initiative is part of a broader vision to foster cultural identity and ensure the sustainability of artistic expression within educational settings.
Under the patronage of Ismail Abdullah, the Secretary-General of the Arab Theatre Authority, a delegation visited Riyadh where they met with prominent officials, including Dr. Mohammed bin Saud Al-Muqbil, the Director General of the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States. Also present at the meeting were Dr. Abdullah Al-Sahma, Advisor for Program Management at the Bureau, and Mr. Hamad Al-Asiri, Supervisor and Program Coordinator. During the meeting, they discussed ways to activate and develop the memorandum of understanding signed between the two parties, which has resulted in several training, qualification, and competition programs.
Both parties aim to use the memorandum of understanding as a framework to support school theatre and enhance its role in shaping learners’ identities. This collaboration focuses on building a cultural and civilizational identity that highlights cultural values and heritage in various forms. Both sides fully recognize the importance of culture and its particularities in addressing challenges that may threaten identity within Arab communities.
Furthermore, there will be collaboration with the ministries of education and culture in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to encourage theatre clubs as platforms for nurturing talent. The two parties seek to establish incentive programs to energize these clubs, ensuring the continuity and diversity of theatrical production.
In a related context, the Secretary-General announced a new plan regarding an Arab School Theatre Festival, which will begin its first edition in 2026. This festival will serve as an interactive platform reflecting the diversity and growth of the Arab cultural scene, attracting participants from various Arab countries.
Ismail Abdullah expressed optimism during the meeting, stating: “I am very optimistic about the future, which will bring new and positive developments. This vibrant vision reinforces our belief in the Authority that our strategic project, which we initiated in 2014 under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, will achieve its goals by 2035.” He emphasized the importance of continuing to develop school theatre as a fundamental step towards advancing the Arab theatrical movement.