Basra artists win four awards at Arab Children’s Theater Festival in Jordan

BASRA — Artists from Basra have won four awards at the Arab Children’s Theater Festival in Zarqa, Jordan, for their play “Saadan and Naasan”. The accolades included Best Playwright, Best Supporting Actor, Best Actress, and Best Lighting Design. The festival, held from Nov. 15 to 20, featured entries from Bahrain, Jordan, Palestine, and Oman.

“We participated as representatives of Iraq under the Artists’ Syndicate in the Arab Children’s Theater Festival in Zarqa,” said Ahmed Al-Shamal, the play’s director, speaking to 964media. “Our play ‘Saadan and Naasan’ was inspired by Iraqi childhood and aimed to raise awareness among Arab and Iraqi children in particular.”

The play, written by Dr. Haider Al-Asadi, earned the Best Playwright award, while Abbas Abdul-Sada won Best Supporting Actor and Ali Al-Ahmad was honored with Best Lighting Design.

“We took home four of the nine awards presented at the festival,” Al-Shamal added. “As the director, I am deeply grateful to the entire team and the festival organizers for their dedication and support.”

Abbas Abdul-Sada expressed his pride in the recognition. “I played a supporting role and was honored to win Best Supporting Actor. Competing with talented groups from countries like Bahrain, Jordan, Palestine, Algeria, and Oman was challenging, but Iraq shined with our theatrical performance,” he said.

The play “Saadan and Naasan” resonated with audiences and the judging panel for its creative storytelling and ability to address themes relevant to children. The Basra team’s success underscores the strength and vibrancy of Iraqi theater on the regional stage.