Amman, Nov. 8 (Petra) – Minister of Culture Mustafa Rawashdeh met on Sunday with the President of the Arab Theatre Authority (ATA), writer Ismail Abdullah, to discuss Jordan's arrangements to host the 17th edition of Arab Theatre Festival, scheduled to take place in Amman next January.

During the meeting, which was attended by the Head of the Jordanian Artists Syndicate, Dr. Hani Jarrah, and the delegation accompanying the authority’s head, Rawashdeh affirmed the ministry’s commitment to providing all support to ensure the festival’s success and enhance its position across the Arab world.

According to a ministry statement, Rawashdeh highlighted the importance of theatre as an "effective" tool for conveying cultural and intellectual messages, fostering social awareness, and promoting values ??of dialogue and openness.

Rawashdeh also called for strengthening cooperation with the ATA and leveraging its expertise to advance the Arab theatrical movement.

He urged "greater" support for theatre within the Ministry of Culture’s broader cultural narrative, reflecting its role in shaping public consciousness and national cultural identity.

On behalf of Jordan, the minister valued UAE's efforts, Emirate of Sharjah in particular, in supporting Arab culture and sponsoring cultural and theatrical projects and initiatives, commending their role in fostering a "vibrant" Arab cultural landscape.

He also acknowledged contributions of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his dedicated support of Arab culture and theatre.

He affirmed the ministry’s readiness to exert all necessary efforts to ensure success of Jordan’s hosting of the Arab Theatre Festival to serve Jordan’s cultural and artistic position and reflect "depth" of Arab cultural relations.

Starting next year, he said the ministry intends to form a committee mandated to revive theatrical activity and expand scope of theatrical performances and events across the governorates.

He stated this initiative aims to foster cultural equity and provide opportunities for talented individuals and creators to reach diverse segments of society.

For his part, Abdullah expressed his appreciation for the collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, adding that this crucial partnership will support Arab theatre, develop its tools, and strengthen its presence.

The meeting also went over ways to broaden the two sides' cooperation and partnership scope, including expertise exchange, support to theatre practitioners and creators, and creation of a conducive environment for theatrical production.

This effort would contribute to enriching the cultural landscape and enhancing communication among Arab theatre artists.
//Petra// AG

08/11/2026 15:17:35