العربية
Sohar University has launched the activities of the 14th Sohar University Theatre Festival, featuring local participation as well as contributions from the United Arab Emirates. The festival is held in conjunction with the 23rd Student Week from 5 to 8 April 2026 at the University Theatre. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Jamal bin Ahmed Al Abri, Member of the Shura Council.
The opening ceremony included the honoring of this year’s distinguished personalities, namely Juma Ali Al Darmaki and Saeed Obaid from the United Arab Emirates. The jury and critique committees were also recognized, followed by the first theatrical performance presented by Sohar University students. The participating performances will continue throughout the festival days.
In his opening speech, Dr. Saif Al Hinai, Manager of the Student Activities Department, stated: “Theatre, in its profound essence, is not merely an illuminated stage or a raised curtain; it is the voice of a nation’s conscience and the embodiment of a people’s spirit. Through it, visions of life and its meanings are shaped. It is the space where ideas harmonize with emotions, producing a discourse capable of questioning reality, anticipating the future, and creating impact.”
The festival will feature six theatrical performances that reflect students’ talents and creativity in acting, directing, and playwriting.
The festival is further distinguished by the organization of critique sessions following each performance, aimed at discussing and analyzing the plays from both artistic and academic perspectives, thereby enhancing students’ skills and enriching their theatrical experience. The jury committee is chaired by Dr. Murshid Raqi, with membership including Mohammed Al Siyabi and Tahir Mohsen from the Kingdom of Bahrain. The critique committee includes Abdullah Tabook, Osama Zayed, Abdullah Al Rawahi, Dr. Hosni Melitat, Nasser Al Housani, and Rashid Al Buraiki.
Coinciding with the festival is the 7th edition of the Sohar University Media Presentation Competition, reflecting the integration between performing arts and media in developing students’ skills.
This festival reaffirms Sohar University’s commitment to supporting cultural student activities in general, and theatrical activities in particular, by providing a platform for students to express their talents and develop their creative abilities, thereby enhancing the University’s role in shaping well-rounded student personalities.