Mafraq, December 17 (Petra) -- The first Badia Film Festival was inaugurated Monday evening by Director of the Heritage and Cultural Affairs Directorate at the Ministry of Culture, Aqel Khawaldeh.

The event, organized by the Society for Culture, Creative, and Visual Arts, was supported by the Mafraq Governorate Council. The opening ceremony, held at Mafraq Municipality Hall, featured folklore and artistic performances by artist Raed Sarhan and the Northern Badia Band. It also included poetry recitations by a group of Nabati poets, adding cultural depth to the event.

Khawaldeh highlighted the significance of Mafraq's authentic achievements and emphasized the need for the festival's continuity. He commended the event's organization and praised the training workshops on filmmaking held on the sidelines of the festival.

Festival President Osama Taleilan underscored the Ministry of Culture’s role in fostering the cinematic sector, reflecting on the historical development of cinema in Mafraq Governorate.

Director of the Mafraq Culture Directorate Samer Khazaleh noted the importance of such initiatives in preserving the northern Badia's rich cultural heritage while showcasing local artistic and creative talents.

In parallel, the Northern Badia Band Association launched the 17th edition of the "Northern Badia Nights for Arts and Heritage" Festival, supported by the Ministry of Culture and the Mafraq Governorate Council.

//Petra// AJ

17/12/2024 17:20:46