Sharjah:His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, met with the Board of Trustees of the Arab Theatre Institute on Monday morning at the Sultan Al Qasimi Centre. In his capacity as Supreme President of the Institute, His Highness welcomed the Board members from various Arab countries, praising their efforts to advance Arab theatre and preserve its rich history.
According to Wam, His Highness announced the renewal of confidence in the Institute's Board of Trustees for a new term, acknowledging their ambitious projects implemented across numerous Arab countries. He commended the Board's support for theatre in African countries through festivals, youth participation, and the training of teachers and students in school theatre.
His Highness directed that the Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Award for Best Arab Theatrical Work at the Arab Theatre Festival be doubled to AED 200,000 to encourage participation and elevate theatrical standards. The meeting also discussed plans to expand support for Arab theatre and its professionals, including the establishment of specialised theatre institutes.
The importance of theatre festivals was highlighted as a cultural cornerstone, facilitating communication among theatre professionals in the Arab world and internationally. The meeting reviewed reports on the Institute's activities and achievements in school and amateur theatre, which draw new audiences from remote areas.
The discussions addressed Arab and international cooperation in theatre, encouraging young professionals, and intensifying efforts to advance Arab theatre. At the meeting's conclusion, His Highness received the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' from the Lebanon International Theatre Festival, acknowledging his contributions to Arab theatre, along with several theatre publications.
The Board members expressed gratitude to His Highness for his renewed confidence and support, pledging to continue advancing Arab theatre and its mission across the region. They praised his ongoing interest in art, literature, and theatre initiatives that enhance the cultural landscape in Arab countries.