Amman: The 19th edition of the Jordanian Children's Theater Festival, dedicated to the late director Samir Al-Khawalda, opened Tuesday evening at the Royal Cultural Center in Amman. Nidal Al-Ahmad, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Culture, emphasized the festival's significance in enhancing Jordan's theatrical landscape. He highlighted children's theater as a foundational element for societal development, serving as a platform for dialogue, awareness, and personal growth.
According to Jordan News Agency, Al-Ahmad underscored the importance of children's theater in instilling national identity and human values in young audiences, while also encouraging them to engage with digital and scientific progress. He emphasized the ministry's commitment to fostering a dynamic theatrical culture that addresses contemporary challenges.
The opening ceremony, hosted by actor Karam Al-Zawahreh, introduced the Children's Theater Museum exhibition in the "Fakhr Al-Nisa" hall, featuring puppets, marionettes, shadow theater, and photographs from past performances. A film tribute honored the late director Samir Al-Khawalda for his 25 years of contributions to children's theater in Jordan and the Arab world. Al-Ahmad presented Al-Khawalda's family with the festival shield in recognition of his artistic legacy.
The festival, which runs for five days, includes performances such as the shadow theater "Here is Amman" by the Puppet Theater Museum, "Moon Island" directed by Mahmoud Al-Zughoul, "Ward and the Magic Brush" directed by Fadia Abu Ghoush, and "Cinderella Returns" directed by Ramadan Al-Fayoumi. The opening shadow theater performance, "Here is Amman," traced the city's history from ancient times to the present, featuring landmarks like the Roman Theater and the traditional vegetable market.
Children attending the opening event received the ministry's "Wisam" magazine and balloons.