Theatre in Saudi Arabia

Modern Saudi theatre traces its beginnings with the foundation of the current Saudi Arabia state. However, the Hijaz play in Medina was established during the Turkish Ottoman era; it is a popular theatre, frequently including dance and Arabic poetry. Theatre activities are still popular today in the kingdom. Saudi theatre has existed in and been produced by several establishments such as schools, universities, governmental sectors, and private sectors.[1]

History

The history of theatrical activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia dates back to 1928 when the first play entitled "Dialogue between the ignorant and uneducated" was performed in Qassim in front of King Abdulaziz.[2] Theatrical activities were also very active during the Ottoman in Hijaz. The Ministry of Culture and Information is one of several organizations that have been established throughout the country to preserve and sponsor Saudi theater.[3] The Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts, The King Fahd Cultural Center, and King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture also sponsor Saudi theater activities in the kingdom.[4][5]

Venues

There are several theaters in the kingdom. With a seating capacity of over 3000, The Theater of King Fahd Cultural Center in Riyadh is considered the largest theater in Saudi Arabia with the largest number of seats; it has witnessed and hosted many theatre activities. Also, the theater of King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (alternatively called Ithra) has around 900 seats; it opened in 2018.[6]

References
  1. Alotaibi, Naif Khalaf N (2013-06-03). "A Historical Study of Saudi Theatre with Reference to the History of Theatre in the General Presidency for Youth Welfare". University of Exeter: 354. Retrieved 25 November 2016.
  2. Syed Ali, Ismail. "Medina, former Gulf in the presentation of the first play in 1910". Helwan University. Helwan University. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  3. "Culture, Traditions and Art". sacm. sacm. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  4. "Play 5 Concluded Three Years of Training". King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture. King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  5. "Saudi Arabia Association for Culture and Arts, Alqassem Branch". citfsrilanka. citfsrilanka. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  6. "Theater". ithra.com. Ithra by Aramco. Retrieved September 21, 2023. Since opening its doors in 2018, Ithra Theater…


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