Sharjah:His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah, and Supreme President of the Arab Theatre Institute, convened with the Board of Trustees of the Arab Theatre Institute on Monday morning at the Sultan Al Qasimi Centre.
According to Wam, the meeting began with His Highness welcoming Board members from various Arab nations and commending the Institute's dedication to advancing Arab theatre. He emphasized the importance of preserving its rich history and its role in raising cultural awareness across Arab societies through exceptional theatrical productions.
His Highness announced the renewal of the Board of Trustees' term, acknowledging their achievements during the previous period and their ambitious projects implemented across numerous Arab countries. He also praised their efforts in supporting theatre in African countries through festivals, increasing youth involvement, and training educators and students through school theatre.
Additionally, His Highness directed that the Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Award for Best Arab Theatrical Work at the Arab Theatre Festival be increased to AED 200,000. This decision aims to motivate theatre professionals, encourage creativity, and promote healthy competition to elevate the quality of theatrical productions.
The meeting addressed various topics, including strategies to bolster support for Arab theatre and its professionals by establishing more specialized theatre institutes. It highlighted the significance of theatre festivals in enriching the cultural and artistic landscape, and fostering communication among theatre professionals both regionally and internationally.
Furthermore, the gathering reviewed the Institute's recent activities, achievements in school theatre, and amateur theatre's role in engaging new audiences in remote areas. Discussions also included strengthening Arab and international cooperation in theatre and encouraging young professionals to partake in theatrical productions.
At the meeting's conclusion, His Highness received the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' from the Lebanon International Theatre Festival, celebrating his significant contributions to Arab theatre. He was also presented with several theatre publications.
The Board of Trustees expressed their gratitude to His Highness for his continued trust and support. They pledged to further their efforts in enhancing Arab theatre and praised his commitment to promoting art, literature, and theatre initiatives across the Arab region.