The Theater and Performing Arts Commission unveiled details of the second edition of the Riyadh Theater Festival during a press conference at the Saudi Music Hub in Riyadh, attended by the commission's CEO Sultan Al-Bazie, along with a group of media figures and cultural personalities.

Dates and program

The festival runs from 15 to 26 December 2024 at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh, offering a leading platform to support Saudi theater practitioners, nurture emerging talent and energize the theater scene in the Kingdom.

Festival highlights

  • 20 theatrical productions, carefully selected by a specialized committee of theater experts to showcase innovative, high-caliber work.
  • Intellectual and developmental programs, including specialized panels and training workshops aimed at young theater practitioners to build their skills and support their artistic careers.
  • A "Person of the Year" tribute honoring Saudi theater pioneer Ahmed Al-Sibai (may he rest in peace), celebrating his contributions to enriching theatrical arts in the Kingdom.

Sultan Al-Bazie's remarks

The commission's CEO, Sultan Al-Bazie, said the Riyadh Theater Festival is a cornerstone for strengthening the Kingdom's theater movement and raising local audience awareness of the performing arts. He stressed the festival's role in showcasing artistic diversity and creativity and supporting the commission's strategy to enrich the Saudi cultural scene and give it a stronger regional and international presence.

Selection criteria

Festival director Dr. Rashed Al-Shammari discussed the criteria used to select participating productions, which focused on quality and innovation in theatrical output. He also confirmed that award evaluation mechanisms would be announced at the festival's closing ceremony to honor outstanding productions.

Why the festival matters

The Riyadh Theater Festival marks a pivotal step in the commission's strategy to develop theater and the performing arts in the Kingdom, reflecting its commitment to raising creative standards and supporting Saudi talent. The festival also seeks to grow public interest in theatrical arts and strengthen the Kingdom's presence on the international cultural stage.