The Qatari play “The Shoeshiner” has won two prestigious awards at the eighth edition of the Kuwait International Monodrama Festival. The play received the Best Script award and the Special Jury Award, with artist Hafez Khalifa also receiving a Certificate of Appreciation for his scenography work.
The festival, held at the Kuwait National Museum, featured 11 theatrical performances from Arab and international theatre troupes. The event was held under the patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs.
Kuwait International Monodrama Festival Showcases Theatrical Talent
“The Shoeshiner” is a monodrama that explores the struggles of the contemporary Arab individual amidst political and social transformations. Written by Dr. Khalid Al Jaber and directed by Hafez Khalifa, the play features a single character who narrates an internal conflict rich with multiple voices and meanings.
The festival’s jury praised the play’s unique storytelling and impactful performance. The event also honored Kuwaiti artist Ibrahim Al Sallal, recognizing his distinguished artistic career spanning nearly 50 years. Other notable productions included “Lament for Media” from Spain, which won the Best Director and Best Scenographer awards.
A Platform for Theatrical Innovation
The Kuwait International Monodrama Festival provides a platform for artists to showcase their work and push the boundaries of monodrama. The event featured a diverse range of productions, including works from Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Iraq, South Africa, Bahrain, Spain, Algeria, and Qatar.
According to the festival’s organizers, the event aims to promote theatrical innovation and support emerging artists. The jury presented several recommendations, including increasing the number of festival days and organizing specialized workshops on solo performance techniques and monodrama directing.
The festival’s recommendations also emphasized the importance of continuing support for the event as a cultural initiative that strengthens the theatrical landscape. With its diverse range of productions and commitment to artistic excellence, the Kuwait International Monodrama Festival is expected to continue to be a major platform for theatrical talent in the region.
Future of the Kuwait International Monodrama Festival
The festival’s future plans are expected to be discussed in the coming months, with a decision on the next edition likely to be made by the end of the year. As the theatrical landscape continues to evolve, the Kuwait International Monodrama Festival is poised to remain a key event in the region’s cultural calendar. The report indicates that plans to expand the festival’s reach and impact are underway, with a focus on showcasing the best of Arab and international theatre.
