Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre: Celebrating 15 Years of Youth Talent and Creativity
The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the 15th edition of the Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre, set to take place from 21 to 28 October at the Cultural and Scientific Association in Al Mamzar. This milestone edition celebrates Emirati theatrical talent and creativity, reinforcing the importance of theatre as a key contributor to the UAE’s creative economy. The festival aims to spotlight local talent, providing a platform for young creatives to showcase their work and contribute to the global cultural scene.
This year’s festival will feature seven performances inspired by real-life events, presented by national theatre groups. The opening play, ‘Yurja 'Adam Al Ittisal’ (‘Please Do Not Call’), written by Mohammed Saleh Al-Sidi, directed by Abdullah Al Hammadi, and performed by the Al Ain Theatre Group, will set the tone for the competition.
Other performances include:
- ‘Sarkhat Amal’ (‘Cry of Hope’), by Abu Dhabi Arts Society.
- ‘Uzlah’ (‘Isolation’), by Dibba Society for Culture Arts and Theatre.
- ‘Hal Arak’ (‘Do I See You?’), by Khorfakkan Arts Theatre.
- ‘Illah Bila Dawa’ (‘A Sickness Without a Cure’), by Rubu’ Qarn for Theatre and Performing Arts.
- ‘Jiran Al Qamar’ (‘Neighbours of the Moon’), by Dubai National Theatre.
- ‘Sinariist’ (‘Screenwriter’), by Al Ahli Dubai Theatre.
The festival’s conclusion will be marked by an awards ceremony celebrating the best performances and contributions.
Fatma Al Jallaf, Acting Director of Performing Arts at Dubai Culture, highlighted the festival's role in nurturing young talent and contributing to the growth of the UAE’s theatrical scene. “Over the past 15 years, the festival has played a vital role in rejuvenating the performing arts, discovering new talents, and fostering creativity. It aligns with Dubai Culture’s vision of positioning Dubai as a global cultural hub, and an incubator for creativity.”
The festival also includes practical seminars led by esteemed researchers and theatre practitioners who will provide critical insights into the performances, further enriching the artistic experience for both participants and audiences.
