Latest news with #IsmailAbdullah
Sharjah 24
10-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Arab Theatre ends entries for 17th children's playwriting contest
Theme: modern heroes in traditional tales This year's competition was dedicated to scripts written under the theme 'Our children are new heroes in our folk tales', encouraging the integration of contemporary characters into well-known Arab folk stories. The aim is to update and adapt these tales, remove negative imagery, and bridge the gap between the stories and new generations, making them relevant for the present and future. Strong participation and evaluation process The competition drew significant interest, with 200 of the 217 submitted scripts meeting eligibility criteria. A judging panel formed by the Institute will evaluate entries based on announced conditions and specific scientific standards, including originality, dialogue quality, dramatic structure, language, educational value, and accurate targeting of the intended age group. A legacy of enriching Arab theatre In previous editions, the competition has contributed valuable works to the Arab theatrical library, introduced both established and new playwrights, and fostered high standards in dramatic writing for children. A message from the Secretary-General Secretary-General of the Arab Theatre Institute, writer Ismail Abdullah, said that this year's theme encourages a positive and dynamic re-engagement with folk tales, building a bridge between children and a heritage that has inspired imaginations worldwide. He noted that the number of entries points to strong competition and a lively creative spirit.
Sharjah 24
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
ATA launches course to boost amateur youth theatre
Seventeen directors to be trained in nationwide theatre development Seventeen aspiring directors are receiving specialised training in this first step of a wider plan to organise further courses across Jordan's governorates. The goal is to nurture young talents, empower them artistically and culturally, and develop their skills scientifically to raise artistic and theatrical awareness. Encouraging amateur theatre groups and festival revival By supporting these talents, the project aims to encourage the formation of amateur theatre groups under the supervision of cultural departments in various regions. This will culminate in the revival of the long-paused Amateur Theatre Festival, providing a platform for fair and motivating competition among participants from all governorates. Strategic partnership to build a regional model The agreement, signed in Amman in May 2025 by Jordan's Minister of Culture Mustafa Al-Rawashdeh and Arab Theatre Authority Secretary-General Ismail Abdullah, represents a strategic initiative to develop amateur youth theatre in Jordan as a model that could be adopted in other Arab countries. Building the future of Jordanian theatre through research and education Ismail Abdullah emphasised that the Arab Theatre Authority plays a vital role in developing Arab drama and theatre, promoting theatrical texts and research, and invigorating the theatrical scene across the Arab world. The project focuses on scientifically developing the amateur theatre sector, which forms the vital resource for the future of Jordanian theatre. Optimism for an inspiring theatre season ahead Abdullah added that a detailed training programme has been designed in collaboration with expert trainers to ensure a rich and inspiring season for amateur youth theatre in Jordan, expressing full confidence in the initiative's success. Support from key cultural figures at the launch The course opening was attended by playwright Huzaa Al-Barari, member of the Arab Theatre Authority's Board of Trustees, Abdul Karim Al-Jarrah, Director of the Theatre and Arts Directorate, and members of the Jordanian Theatre Season Committee 2025, representing the Ministry of Culture on the project's executive committee.
Sharjah 24
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Arab Theatre Authority charts next decade for school drama
Celebrating a decade of progress This meeting coincides with the tenth anniversary of the launch of the Strategy for the Development and Advancement of School Theatre in the Arab World. Since its inception in 2015, the strategy has made substantial progress. It has elevated school theatre to a new level of recognition within Arab ministries of education. Around 20,000 teachers have received specialised training, a dedicated theatre curriculum has been introduced at all grade levels in Emirati schools, and hundreds of theatre specialists have been employed to teach the subject. These efforts have positioned school theatre as a dynamic and essential part of the educational and cultural scene in the region. Vision and leadership support In this context, Ismail Abdullah, Secretary-General of the Arab Theatre Authority, stated that the meeting is held under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah, and Supreme Chairman of the Authority. Abdullah emphasised that school theatre in the Arab world has entered a new phase of growth and attention due to this enlightened vision, which is driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of theatre in shaping individuals and advancing societies. A curriculum rooted in identity and openness Abdullah also expressed pride in the creation of an original Arab theatre curriculum for Emirati schools. This curriculum was designed by Arab experts who carefully considered themes of cultural identity, national belonging, and openness to other cultures. He described the upcoming meeting as both a platform for critical assessment and a launchpad for renewed efforts, aiming to build on past achievements while adapting to future needs. A call for continued partnership Concluding his remarks, Abdullah called on Arab ministries and educational institutions to continue their collaboration with the Arab Theatre Authority. He stressed the importance of theatre as a tool for cultivating an educated, aware generation capable of actively contributing to sustainable development in the Arab world.
