Latest news with #MaryamSultan
Gulf Today
21-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Sultan attends opening of 34th Sharjah Theatre Days
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the opening of the 34th edition of Sharjah Theatre Days, organised by the Department of Culture, at the Cultural Palace in Sharjah. Six theatrical performances are competing for awards during this edition, which will conclude on February 26. The event features 15 performances from various theatre groups and troupes across the country, alongside extensive participation from theatre professionals and researchers from Arab countries. The programme also includes intellectual seminars and training workshops that complement the performances. The Ruler of Sharjah presented the "Local Personality Award" for this edition to Emirati artist Maryam Sultan and the "Sharjah Award for Arab Theatrical Creativity" to Syrian artist Asaad Fadda in its 18th edition. Additionally, Sheikh Sultan honoured the Opera Theatre Company from Tunisia, which won the "Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Award for Best Arab Theatrical Work 2024" for their performance of Al-Bukhara. The award was received by the director of the show, artist Sadiq Trabelsi. During the ceremony, Sheikh Sultan and the attendees watched two visual presentations. The first showcased the biography of artist Maryam Sultan, highlighting her significant contributions to local theatre in the UAE. It traced her career from the late seventies, documenting her pioneering work in the field. The second presentation focused on artist Asaad Fadda, exploring key moments in his career and his immense passion for theatre. It highlighted his dedication to presenting diverse theatrical works and his role in shaping Arab theatre through his work in acting, directing, and management. The ceremony introduced the members of the jury for this edition, which included Emirati actor and writer Abdullah Rashid, Tunisian director Ghazi Zaghbani, Algerian director Dr Lakhdar Mansouri, Egyptian critic Dr Yasmine Faraj, and Moroccan writer and director Dr Abdelmajid Shakir. A selection of shows were chosen to compete this year, as determined by the viewing and classification committee. These include: Elkat Saleh by the Sharjah Modern Theatre Group, Sarakhat menal Haweyah- Screams from the Abyss by the Kalba Folk Arts and Theatre Association, Ara'es Annar- Fire Brides by the Khorfakkan Arts Theatre, Kaab Wa Nesf Hetha' - Heel and Half Shoe by Yas Theatre, Jurr Mihrathak - Drag Your Plow by the Dibba Al-Hisn Association for Culture, Heritage and Theatre, and Baba by the Sharjah National Theatre Group. Six shows will be presented outside the competition, including: Waiting for the Family by Fujairah Theatre, The Day After Love by Dibba Society for Culture, Arts and Theatre, Lottery by Al Ain Popular Theatre, Arj Al Sawahil by Umm Al Quwain National Theatre, Daq Khushoom by Dubai National Theatre, and Cotton Mice by Dubai Al Ahli Theatre. The show lineup will also include two works from the 11th edition of the Kalba Short Plays Festival: Farewell Song by director Talal Al Balushi, winner of the Best Show Award, and The Sanctuary by director Jassim Gharib, which received the Best Scenography Award. The 13th Sharjah Forum for Arab Theatre Pioneers is also part of the event, celebrating top students from theatre colleges and institutes across the Arab world. This forum offers them the chance to attend and engage in Sharjah Theatre Days activities, while exploring the local cultural scene. In addition, the forum features lectures on scenography, directing, and acting, along with cultural tours around Sharjah's landmarks. This year, students from Kuwait, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Tunisia are participating in the forum. The intellectual forum for this edition, titled "Criticism: Memory of Arab Theatre," features contributions from researchers and theatre professionals from across the Arab world. In addition, several cultural seminars explore the connection between theatre and Arab history and heritage. These include a seminar on "Andalusia in Arab Theatre," which examines how Arab theatre artists approach the story of Paradise Lost, and another titled "Theatre and the Art of Maqama... The Being and the Possible," which explores how ancient Arab art influences contemporary theatre. A third seminar, "Theatre and Enlightenment," discusses the role of Arab theatre in promoting education, acquiring knowledge, fostering openness, and advancing societal progress to build a better future. The cultural programme of the 34th edition of Sharjah Theatre Days features a dialogue with artist Asaad Fadda to celebrate his receipt of the Sharjah Award for Arab Theatre Creativity. Additionally, there will be a meeting with artist Maryam Sultan in honour of her selection and recognition during this edition. The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of the Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler's Office; Sheikh Eng. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Qasimi, Director of the Department of Municipal Affairs; along with several senior officials, artists, intellectuals, media professionals, and theatre enthusiasts.
Sharjah 24
19-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Sultan Al Qasimi attends opening of 34th Sharjah Theatre Days
Competing performances and extensive participation Six theatrical performances are competing for awards during this edition, which will conclude on February 26. The event features 15 performances from various theatre groups and troupes across the country, alongside extensive participation from theatre professionals and researchers from Arab countries. The programme also includes intellectual seminars and training workshops that complement the performances. Awards and honours presented His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah presented the "Local Personality Award" for this edition to Emirati artist Maryam Sultan and the "Sharjah Award for Arab Theatrical Creativity" to Syrian artist Asaad Fadda in its 18th edition. Additionally, His Highness honoured the Opera Theatre Company from Tunisia, which won the "Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Award for Best Arab Theatrical Work 2024" for their performance of Al-Bukhara. The award was received by the director of the show, artist Sadiq Trabelsi. Visual presentations at the ceremony During the ceremony, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and the attendees watched two visual presentations. The first showcased the biography of artist Maryam Sultan, highlighting her significant contributions to local theatre in the UAE. It traced her career from the late seventies, documenting her pioneering work in the field. The second presentation focused on artist Asaad Fadda, exploring key moments in his career and his immense passion for theatre. It highlighted his dedication to presenting diverse theatrical works and his role in shaping Arab theatre through his work in acting, directing, and management. Jury members introduced The ceremony introduced the members of the jury for this edition, which included Emirati actor and writer Abdullah Rashid, Tunisian director Ghazi Zaghbani, Algerian director Dr Lakhdar Mansouri, Egyptian critic Dr Yasmine Faraj, and Moroccan writer and director Dr Abdelmajid Shakir. Competing shows of this edition A selection of shows were chosen to compete this year, as determined by the viewing and classification committee. These include: Elkat Saleh by the Sharjah Modern Theatre Group, Sarakhat menal Haweyah- Screams from the Abyss by the Kalba Folk Arts and Theatre Association, Ara'es Annar- Fire Brides by the Khorfakkan Arts Theatre, Kaab Wa Nesf Hetha' - Heel and Half Shoe by Yas Theatre, Jurr Mihrathak - Drag Your Plow by the Dibba Al-Hisn Association for Culture, Heritage and Theatre, and Baba by the Sharjah National Theatre Group. Shows outside the competition Six shows will be presented outside the competition, including: Waiting for the Family by Fujairah Theatre, The Day After Love by Dibba Society for Culture, Arts and Theatre, Lottery by Al Ain Popular Theatre, Arj Al Sawahil by Umm Al Quwain National Theatre, Daq Khushoom by Dubai National Theatre, and Cotton Mice by Dubai Al Ahli Theatre. Highlights from the Kalba Short Plays Festival The show lineup will also include two works from the 11th edition of the Kalba Short Plays Festival: Farewell Song by director Talal Al Balushi, winner of the Best Show Award, and The Sanctuary by director Jassim Gharib, which received the Best Scenography Award. 13th Sharjah Forum for Arab Theatre Pioneers The 13th Sharjah Forum for Arab Theatre Pioneers is also part of the event, celebrating top students from theatre colleges and institutes across the Arab world. This forum offers them the chance to attend and engage in Sharjah Theatre Days activities, while exploring the local cultural scene. In addition, the forum features lectures on scenography, directing, and acting, along with cultural tours around Sharjah's landmarks. This year, students from Kuwait, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Tunisia are participating in the forum. The Intellectual Forum: "Criticism: Memory of Arab Theatre" The intellectual forum for this edition, titled "Criticism: Memory of Arab Theatre," features contributions from researchers and theatre professionals from across the Arab world. In addition, several cultural seminars explore the connection between theatre and Arab history and heritage. These include a seminar on "Andalusia in Arab Theatre," which examines how Arab theatre artists approach the story of Paradise Lost, and another titled "Theatre and the Art of Maqama... The Being and the Possible," which explores how ancient Arab art influences contemporary theatre. A third seminar, "Theatre and Enlightenment," discusses the role of Arab theatre in promoting education, acquiring knowledge, fostering openness, and advancing societal progress to build a better future. Cultural programmes and dialogues The cultural programme of the 34th edition of Sharjah Theatre Days features a dialogue with artist Asaad Fadda to celebrate his receipt of the Sharjah Award for Arab Theatre Creativity. Additionally, there will be a meeting with artist Maryam Sultan in honour of her selection and recognition during this edition. Attendance at the opening ceremony The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler's Office; Sheikh Eng. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Qasimi, Director of the Department of Municipal Affairs; along with several senior officials, artists, intellectuals, media professionals, and theatre enthusiasts.
Yahoo
04-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
'Council tax rise of nearly 10% will hit us hard'
Council tax is set to rise by nearly 10% in Bradford after the government approved a request from the local authority. The Labour-run council had submitted a bid to increase bills by 14.99% in 2025-26 but was only given consent for a 9.9% hike - the highest rise in the country. The council said the proposed rise - which will be put to councillors next month - would reduce borrowing costs and help protect services. But opposition politicians have said the authority's problems were of its own making. Friends Maryam Sultan and Ujala Aftab were out with friends in Centenary Square, in the shadow of the historic City Hall, where decisions about public spending are made. Maryam said that although the council's reasoning for raising local taxes sounded "fair enough", she felt the public "continually pays for the mistakes of those higher up". "I think it's going to hit people quite hard," she said. Her friend Ujala, meanwhile, said she already paid a "horrendous" amount of council tax and was worried she would have to dip into her savings to make ends meet. "I'm fuming," she added. Sue Wilde, who has lived in Bradford for more than 40 years, said she was resigned to hearing about "just another increase in bills". "Services are getting cut so we're actually paying more for less," she said. "Then there are water bills going up, gas and electric are going up, but our wages aren't going up by 10 or 15%." Naseer Kaleemulla, who works in the new One City Park building, said the rise was making him think twice about relocating from Leeds to Bradford. He currently lives in a Band C property paying around £160 a year, but would have to consider living in a smaller home if he moved to Bradford. "There has been a spike in groceries, spike in bills, an increase in bus fares, " he said. Bradford Council's executive will meet to finalise its budget proposals later in the month. According to the council, the increase in tax will help the authority avoid significant borrowing costs - but it still needs to save £40m next year and a further £50m a year for the following four years. Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe said the council had asked for the one-off increase "really reluctantly" and the government had "reluctantly agreed". "We are between a rock and a hard place really," she said. "We have really agonised about this decision." Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said that "off the scale" pressure on adult and children's services was a major factor. "What isn't fair is that Bradford Council and many across the country were not funded correctly," she said. Ms Brabin said changes made by the Labour government would mean the system would be fairer and based on need. "It can't be right that there is equality of funding for green leafy areas and areas of deprivation and challenge," she said. But not all politicians in the city agree. Rebecca Poulsen, leader of the opposition Conservative group, admitted finances had been "challenging". But she said it was only after the authority's children's services department faced a £49m overspend on support for vulnerable young people that things had "spiralled out of control". "It's basically choices made by the Labour administration," she said. "They are making excuses and not taking any responsibility." Bradford Green group leader Matt Edwards said: "Simply asking us to pay more council tax won't fix the problem. "Local government needs to be funded properly if we are to get the services we all deserve." And Liberal Democrat group leader Brendan Stubbs accused the Labour executive of "blaming everyone but themselves for the council's financial collapse". He said they were "forcing residents to pay the price" and added: "It is totally shameless." Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here. Council given permission for 9.9% tax hike Council backs 15% council tax rise request
BBC News
04-02-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Bradford council tax rise of nearly 10% 'will hit us hard'
Council tax is set to rise by nearly 10% in Bradford after the government approved a request from the local Labour-run council had submitted a bid to increase bills by 14.99% in 2025-26 but was only given consent for a 9.9% hike - the highest rise in the council said the proposed rise - which will be put to councillors next month - would reduce borrowing costs and help protect opposition politicians have said the authority's problems were of its own making. Friends Maryam Sultan and Ujala Aftab were out with friends in Centenary Square, in the shadow of the historic City Hall, where decisions about public spending are said that although the council's reasoning for raising local taxes sounded "fair enough", she felt the public "continually pays for the mistakes of those higher up"."I think it's going to hit people quite hard," she friend Ujala, meanwhile, said she already paid a "horrendous" amount of council tax and was worried she would have to dip into her savings to make ends meet. "I'm fuming," she added. Sue Wilde, who has lived in Bradford for more than 40 years, said she was resigned to hearing about "just another increase in bills"."Services are getting cut so we're actually paying more for less," she said."Then there are water bills going up, gas and electric are going up, but our wages aren't going up by 10 or 15%."Naseer Kaleemulla, who works in the new One City Park building, said the rise was making him think twice about relocating from Leeds to currently lives in a Band C property paying around £160 a year, but would have to consider living in a smaller home if he moved to Bradford."There has been a spike in groceries, spike in bills, an increase in bus fares, " he said. Bradford Council's executive will meet to finalise its budget proposals later in the to the council, the increase in tax will help the authority avoid significant borrowing costs - but it still needs to save £40m next year and a further £50m a year for the following four leader Susan Hinchcliffe said the council had asked for the one-off increase "really reluctantly" and the government had "reluctantly agreed"."We are between a rock and a hard place really," she said."We have really agonised about this decision." Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said that "off the scale" pressure on adult and children's services was a major factor."What isn't fair is that Bradford Council and many across the country were not funded correctly," she Brabin said changes made by the Labour government would mean the system would be fairer and based on need."It can't be right that there is equality of funding for green leafy areas and areas of deprivation and challenge," she said. But not all politicians in the city Poulsen, leader of the opposition Conservative group, admitted finances had been "challenging".But she said it was only after the authority's children's services department faced a £49m overspend on support for vulnerable young people that things had "spiralled out of control"."It's basically choices made by the Labour administration," she said. "They are making excuses and not taking any responsibility."Bradford Green group leader Matt Edwards said: "Simply asking us to pay more council tax won't fix the problem. "Local government needs to be funded properly if we are to get the services we all deserve."And Liberal Democrat group leader Brendan Stubbs accused the Labour executive of "blaming everyone but themselves for the council's financial collapse".He said they were "forcing residents to pay the price" and added: "It is totally shameless."Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.
