Amateur talent shines at Riyadh theater festival

RIYADH: The inaugural Theatrical Amateur Clubs Festival, organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission at King Saud University in Riyadh, ended on Saturday after nine days of cultural events.

The event aims to empower amateur theater clubs, fostering competition in delivering unique performances. Additionally, it bids to cultivate a supportive environment for Saudi playwrights, enhancing local productions and enriching the cultural and artistic landscape in the Kingdom.

Ali Saeed, the director of the event, spoke of the importance of supporting and encouraging amateurs, some of whom were making their first appearance on stage.

He highlighted the significance of diversity in theatrical works and artistic schools to help encourage and refine talents.

Winners were announced and honored with awards in various categories at the closing ceremony.

The play “Ya Salam Sallam” won four awards, including Hana Al-Zarqad for Best Theatrical Costume, Kareem Abou Chabke for Best Actor in a Leading Role, Jaafar Arbab for Best Theatrical Makeup, and director Abdulmalak Al-Muzeial for Best Theater Director.

“Ouridou An Atakallam” won two awards: Best Integrated Theatrical Performance, and Abdullah Dawwari receiving the Best Stage Lighting award.

Ismail Al-Khumais won the Best Theater Design award after working on “Al-Shahih wa Ayyamouhou Al-Akhira.”

“Badal Faked” took two awards: Best Actress in a Leading Role, which was awarded to Amal Ramadan, and Best Screenplay award, presented to writer Abdulbaqi Bakheet.

“Bai’at Al-Wahm” received two accolades. Anfal Housawi took the Best Supporting Actress prize, and Mohammed Aqeel the Best Musical Score award.

Fahd Al-Tale’h, from “Al-Prova Al-Akheera,” took the award for Best Supporting Actor.