The Theatrical Association has declared July 2, the birthday of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, as “Emirati Theatre Day”.
The Emirati Theatre Day will be celebrated annually by the Association and theatre artists. July 2 has been chosen because it holds a special place in their hearts, declaring it a holiday for playwrights to honour the symbolic significance of this date, which they consider the true birth of theatre in the UAE.
It also serves as a tribute to His Highness Sheikh Sultan’s extensive contributions and support to theatre, acknowledging the pivotal role he has played in fostering and nurturing the theatrical community. His Highness has provided a sanctuary for the art form during challenging times, ensuring its growth and development.
Playwright Ismail Abdullah, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Association, stated that the birthday of Sheikh Sultan represents the essence of Emirati Theatre Day, embodying vision, encouragement of creativity, and the elevation of culture.
He underlined the importance of honouring individuals and groups who have significantly contributed to the local theatre scene, as well as acknowledging the achievements of Emirati stage performers in both local and international theatre festivals.
Abdullah said: “The birthday of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah is our Emirati Theatre Day, marking the birth of the vision and insight that led us into the future. It is the birth of Sheikh Sultan who provided, rewarded, and embraced creativity and creative people. It signifies the birth of the Ruler who penned the jewels of knowledge and theatrical creativity in texts that have traversed the globe, promising the humanity of our civilization.
The day also represents the birth of wisdom that elevated the status of culture in building humanity and made our country a haven for playwrights from all parts of the world. Consequently, we see Emirati playwrights who are present and influential locally, regionally, and internationally.”
Abdullah added: “The association will organise a celebration that marks the culmination of the annual theatrical season. The annual celebration will include:
- Honouring three personalities from the pioneers of the local theatrical movement who have not been previously honored.
- Honouring the distinguished theatre troupe.
- Honouring UAE playwrights (teams and individuals) who have won awards at local theatre festivals, such as Sharjah Theatre Days, the Emirates Festival for Children’s Theatre, and the Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre, as well as those who have won at international festivals.
Concluding, Abdullah highlighted the importance of expressing gratitude towards Sheikh Sultan for his invaluable contributions to the cultural landscape of the UAE. He emphasized that the Emirati Theatre Day will serve as an annual opportunity to renew our pledge and commitment as well as celebrate the vibrant theatre community in the country.
