A journey full of achievements and a stage celebrating passion. This is the story of Emirati theatre. It has originated, developed, and flourished at a rapid pace, elevating the country to a status known as the "father of arts," at a time when many Arab countries, with rich histories in this field, have seen a decline. The UAE, under the leadership of the Ruler of Sharjah, has held onto this legacy with great care, ensuring that its cultural flag remains aloft.
The significant accumulation of performances has been credited with the extensive participation of Emirati theatrical works at both Arab and international levels, resulting in numerous awards and achievements. From its inception, theatre in the UAE has addressed local, regional, and national issues, drawing from various currents and schools of the global stage. Through the serious expression of local social concerns, Emirati performances have resonated widely beyond its borders.
While Emirati theatre has rightfully earned its esteemed reputation, this success did not occur in a vacuum. It was achieved through serious, diligent, and patient work, supported by several key factors, the most important being the unwavering support and care of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This support has manifested in various forms, whether moral, material, or through his contributions to writing in the fields of theatre and history.
His Highness's writings have been one of the pivotal factors in the elevation and leadership of Emirati theatre. His financial support and sponsorship of the "Father of Arts" in the country earned him the title of the "man of theatre in the country." This foundation became the platform from which Emirati theatrical creations were launched. Although the 1970s and 1980s, during the establishment of the state, witnessed great interest in theatre, the history of Emirati theatre dates back even earlier.
The Emirate of Sharjah played a significant role, serving as a space for various theatrical works that addressed Arab and national concerns. His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah, greatly contributed to school theatre, with the 1950s marking the beginning of Emirati theatre. Sharjah was at the forefront of the early achievements and development of the theatrical movement in the Emirates.
We must also remember the early beginnings and the foundational figures who supported the initial theatrical movement through schools and clubs, significantly influencing the crystallization of theatre as a daily and vital concern. Notably, the Al Qasimia School in Sharjah played a crucial role in the emergence and growth of theatrical activities. It was there that a theatrical performance, written by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, made a significant impact. The play resonated deeply, causing concern for the British resident, who escalated the issue to the point of ordering its performances to be stopped, in an attempt to suppress the nationalist sentiments, the play expressed.
This incident underscores Sharjah's significant efforts in supporting the theatrical movement in the Emirates. These efforts were marked by the establishment of the first theatre group, the "National Theatre," which emerged in the late 1970s. The major turning point came with the founding of the Department of Culture in Sharjah in 1984 and the launch of the Sharjah Theatre Days Festival. This festival provided a space for systematic theatrical work, grounded in the standards and foundations of authentic theatre.
In light of this historical narrative of the beginnings and development of theatre in the UAE, the UAE Theatrical Association's decision to designate "Emirati Theatre Day" as an annual occasion to celebrate theatre and playwrights is a fitting tribute. This celebration coincides with the birthday of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah on the second of July each year. It is a gesture of loyalty to the "theatre man" who has given and continues to give to the "father of arts," encapsulated in his immortal saying, "We as human beings are ephemeral, and theatre remains as long as life remains."
This statement reflects His Highness's profound love for theatre, his belief in its role in the advancement of humanity, and his recognition of its enduring importance. It underscores the vital role of the "father of arts" in education, culture, knowledge, refinement, and the advancement of societies and individuals. Moreover, many of His Highness's sayings about theatre have become beloved phrases among playwrights and audiences of this timeless art form.
His Highness's support for theatre has been immense, extending beyond the borders of the UAE to encompass countries worldwide. This support has been particularly significant in the areas of documentation, playwriting, conceptual development, and the promotion of the belief that theatre is intrinsically tied to humanity. Among His Highness's many contributions to theatre are notable works such as The Return of Hulegu, The Case, Reality as a Mirror Image, Alexander the Great, Nimrod, and The Black Stone, among others. In addition to these, His Highness has produced works that document and analyze global theatre movements, such as History on the French Stage, which have played a prominent role in advancing Emirati and Arab theatre. His contributions have propelled the UAE to a position of pride and recognition in the field of theatre. These works have been translated into numerous international languages and have even been performed in international theatres under the direction of renowned global artists.
The generous support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah continues through ongoing attention to the infrastructure necessary to sustain the theatrical movement. This includes the establishment of theatres and performance halls, as well as the creation of academic institutions like the Academy of Performing Arts. His Highness also initiated the Social Solidarity Fund to sponsor and support playwrights. One of His Highness's most significant achievements in supporting the "Father of Arts" across all Arab countries was the establishment of the Arabic Authority for Theatre.
This authority has become the primary reference for Arab playwrights and hosts the foremost theatre festival in the Arab world. Held in different Arab capitals, this festival showcases the finest Arab theatrical performances, where awards are presented, and individuals who have made significant contributions to theatre are honored. “Emirati Theatre Day" and the "Father of Arts" in the country stand on solid ground, thanks to the state's significant interest in theatrical creativity and the unwavering support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. On this momentous day, the achievements of Emirati theatre, from its inception to the present, are celebrated. Emirati Theatre Day is set to become an annual celebration, honouring the rich history and ongoing contributions of the nation's theatre.
The day will also feature the honouring of distinguished theatre associations and groups, as well as UAE playwrights, whether they are part of troupes or individuals recognized in local theatre festivals such as Sharjah Theatre Days, the Emirates Festival for Children's Theatre, and the Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre. It will also celebrate winners from international festivals, making it a grand occasion for Emirati playwrights.
On such a day, it is fitting that Emirati playwrights express their loyalty to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah through their contributions to this esteemed art form. Thanks to His Highness's generous patronage, the UAE has gained recognition for its distinctive and well-established theatrical practices. His Highness has ensured that theatrical activity in the country remains continuous and vibrant. Festivals sponsored by the Department of Culture in Sharjah, such as "Sharjah Theatre Days" and "Sharjah Gulf Theatre," have been instrumental in the prosperity of the theatrical movement. Innovations in theatrical spaces and styles have been showcased in festivals like "Desert Theatre" and "Dual Theatre," alongside growing interest in events that cultivate theatrical talent, such as the "Sharjah School Theatre Festival" and "Kalba for Short Plays."
Source: Al Khaleej Newspaper