Bahrain marks 100 years of theatre achievements

Daily Tribune

27-05-2025

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) has launched a series of initiatives and events to commemorate the centenary of theatre in the Kingdom in a landmark celebration of Bahrain's rich artistic legacy.
The program highlights a century of theatrical evolution, recognising theatre's pivotal role in enriching national culture and fostering artistic talent.
The year-long celebration underscores BACA's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting the arts within the community.
Beginnings
It traces the beginnings of Bahraini theatre to 1925, when students at Al-Hidaya Al-Khalifiya Boys School in Muharraq staged the first documented school theatrical production — an event that laid the foundation for a flourishing theatrical movement.
Over the past 100 years, Bahraini theatre has grown into a vibrant sector, giving rise to a number of prominent theatre groups, including Awal Theater, Al Sawari Theater, Al Reef Theater, Al Bayader Theater, and Gilgamesh Theater.
These groups have not only nurtured generations of Bahraini directors, actors, and writers but have also represented the Kingdom at regional and international forums, earning critical acclaim and numerous prestigious awards.
Speaking on the occasion, Farah Matar, Director General of Culture and Museums at BACA, described the centenary as 'a moment of reflection on a century of creativity and cultural contribution.'
She emphasised the importance of honoring the generations that laid the groundwork for the theatrical arts in Bahrain and pledged continued support for emerging talent.
'The development of Bahraini theatre is the result of collective efforts by official institutions, independent theatre groups, and engaged audiences,' Matar said. 'The Authority remains committed to working with its partners to foster sustainable platforms for creative expression.'
Mohammed Al-Saffar, President of the Federation of Bahraini Theatrical Associations, echoed these sentiments, calling the centenary 'both a tribute to our theatrical legacy and a call to invest in the future.'
Talent
He stressed the importance of building a broad-based audience and supporting young talent, noting that 'a thriving theatre scene must be inclusive and rooted in awareness and artistic diversity.'
As part of the centennial celebrations, BACA, in collaboration with the Federation of Bahraini Theatrical Associations, is implementing a series of projects aimed at documenting and celebrating the Kingdom's theatrical history.