16th Eyon festival celebrates creativity at Baghdad’s national theater

BAGHDAD — The 16th edition of the Eyon Festival for Creativity was held at the National Theater in Baghdad on Tuesday, with this edition named after renowned Kurdish composer Halkawt Zaher, honoring his musical contributions.

The festival featured musical and vocal performances by Arab artists, theatrical and cinematic showcases, and exhibitions of art and photography. The event sought to reflect the country’s cultural and artistic identity to a diverse audience of Arab and international attendees.

Nofal Abu Ragheef, Senior Undersecretary of the Iraq’s Ministry of Culture, noted that the festival represents a significant opportunity to recognize artists selected by an experienced and professional jury. He emphasized the importance of supporting such initiatives despite challenges, stating that the ministry provided logistical support, including access to the National Theater.

“It is important to highlight the presence of Arab and creative figures from the Kurdistan Region and various Arab countries who are participating here on the stage of the National Theater in Baghdad,” he told 964media.

Abu Ragheef expressed gratitude to the organizers for continuing this cultural tradition and extended congratulations to the award winners.

Taha Alwan, a veteran Iraqi actor, shared his joy at being honored while alive, contrasting it with previous editions where awards were often given posthumously. Reflecting on his long career, Alwan said, “I take pride in the respect I receive from audiences in the streets and other public spaces, as it reflects the value of clean and respectable work.”

Zuheir Mohammed, another awardee, praised the festival’s organizers for their dedication. Mohammed noted that the true value of recognition lies in its moral significance and expressed gratitude for the love and support of the audience, which he considered his greatest reward.

Abbas Al-Khafaji, the head of the Eyon Foundation for Culture and Arts, explained that organizing the festival required overcoming numerous obstacles, including limited resources and logistical challenges. He credited the success of the event to collaborations with cultural and artistic figures both locally and internationally. The festival, he said, aimed to honor both veteran and emerging artists in a manner befitting  the country’s rich cultural traditions.