Omani Theatre

There can be no doubt that the Omani theatre movement has now come of age and emerged with an identity of its own. This was very much in evidence at the recently concluded eight-day Arabian theatre festival, attracting the presence of renowned theatre groups and artists from Egypt, Syria and Jordan as well as participation of eight theatre groups from the Sultanate.

Ezzra Khusabiah, an eminent theatre personality and drama critic from Egypt, says: “Omani theatre is now at an interesting stage of evolution and that the theatre movement in Oman is poised to take a great leap forward. It has progressed far beyond the stage of theatre schools or an amateur club.

Ezzra says the theatre movement out here has been able to break out of its rudimentary shell and take its rightful place on centre stage and play a proactive role in making the powerful voice of the people, especially the youth heard. “Drama is a powerful communication tool and through it young people can mirror their hopes and dreams, their doubts and fears. Now Omani theatre can follow its own individual path and produce and stage plays that reflect their own character and identity”.

Khusabiah avers that all this has become possible because of the keen interest shown by the Ministry of Heritage and Culture following a recent government directive. As a result of this initiative, the theatre movement in the Sultanate has received a big boost. “There are now as many as 17 local theatre groups who are producing plays on a regular basis, reflecting the art and culture of Oman”.

She went on to add that several long-term plans are in the process of being implemented by the sponsors, both private and government bodies. Discussions with experts on various related issues have also been successful. “One positive aspect of this has been the government’s willingness to put into place some sort of a funding mechanism for the promotion and development of theatre in Oman”.

She says this will certainly have a positive impact on Omani theatre. But there are challenges that have to be met. “There is this problem of cultural dilution that is taking place all over due to the burgeoning impact of globalisation. On account of this, Arabian culture is being eroded of its character, colour, and individuality. As an emerging movement, Omani theatre has a large responsibility to fulfil and to preserve the art form so that it remains closer to our dreams, a true reflection of Omani theatre in every sense of the word; a true reflection of our common heritage and culture”.

Ismahan Taufiq, a government employee and a theatre lover says: “theatre has been an inseparable part of cultures and civilisations down the ages from the time people started beating drums and dancing around the fire, as an expression of their artistic energies, as an expression of their feelings of happiness and joy or as a catharsis”.

She went on to add: “Theatre and drama are an intrinsic part of human nature. It is therefore very important to promote and develop this art form and encourage our youth to give it more life and potency”.

She stresses, however, that drama artists and enthusiasts “must not become mere followers and imitators as this will lead to a dilution or dissipation of our own rich cultural values and heritage. They must become innovators and carve their own paths of glory and distinction, so that Omani theatre can shine with its own light and lustre”.