Abdullah Hamlawy: Theater Festival Celebrates 18th Session
Algerian National Theater Festival Honors abdullah Hamlawi, showcases Contemporary and Traditional Works
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The Algerian National Theater Festival is underway, running until January 1, 2026, and features a competitive program alongside a diverse parallel program of performances and workshops. This year’s festival is dedicated to the memory of Abdullah Hamlawi, a pivotal figure in Algerian amateur dramatics.
Honoring Abdullah Hamlawi, ”Sheikh of Amateur Dramatists”
The festival is named in honor of Abdullah Hamlawi, affectionately known as the “Sheikh of Amateur Dramatists,” recognizing his important contributions to the development of theater in Algeria and the broader cultural landscape. The dedication acknowledges his inspiring career and lasting impact on the local theatrical movement. No specific details regarding Hamlawi’s life or works were available in the provided text, but the festival’s naming signifies the importance placed on preserving and celebrating Algerian theatrical heritage.
Competitive Program Highlights
The official competition program includes productions from several regional theaters and institutions:
- National theater: “Ayoub’s Funeral”
- Souk Ahras Regional Theater: “Five Women and a Carriage”
- Bejaia Regional Theater: “The Key“
- Biskra Theater: “The Wrath of the Bey”
- Djelfa Regional Theater & higher Institute of Performing Arts Professions (Joint Production): “Lear, King of Sculptors”
- Additional competing works: “Al-Hashim,” “Al-Barda wal-Madaha,” “Al-Kaf Al-Arian,” “Roman Carnival,” and “Returning to Haifa.”
The selection process emphasizes both artistic quality and transparency,utilizing a direct selection mechanism for competing works. This approach aims to balance respect for Algerian theatrical traditions with an embrace of contemporary creativity.
Parallel Program: Performances and Workshops
Beyond the competitive program, the festival offers a robust parallel program designed to engage a wider audience. This includes:
- Indoor Performances: Seven theatrical performances will be staged at the “haj Omar” hall.
- Street Theater: Ten performances will take place in “Mohamed Al-Touri” square, bringing theater directly to the public.
- Children’s Theater Workshop: The second season of the Children’s Theater Workshop will be held,led by artist Professor Mohamed Islam Abbas.
- Academic Symposium: A study day focusing on “Ideologies of Arrogance and Theater” will be hosted next Friday.
- Archival Forum: The festival will also feature a forum dedicated to the Algerian National Theater Archives (1973-1980).
Significance and Future Outlook
The Algerian National Theater Festival serves as a crucial platform for showcasing Algerian theatrical talent and fostering artistic innovation. The festival’s commitment to both honoring its past and embracing its future positions it as a key event in the Algerian cultural calendar. The extended duration, running through January 1, 2026, allows for a comprehensive exploration of the diverse landscape of Algerian theater.