The Riyadh Theater Festival concluded on Monday evening with the announcement of winners in its third edition. The festival was organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission as part of its ongoing efforts to support the national theater movement, enhance awareness of the theater sector, and empower Saudi theatrical talents in line with cultural development goals and the creation of a sustainable professional theater scene.
Launched on December 15, the festival featured an integrated cultural and artistic program that included theatrical performances showcasing diverse creative experiences, artistic schools, and directorial visions. The performances addressed human and intellectual themes reflecting societal issues and demonstrated the evolution and contemporary dynamism of Saudi theater.
The festival’s jury announced the award winners, with Abrar Al-Sharif receiving the Best Theatrical Makeup Award for “When Things Fall into Place”, and Jalilah Al-Salhi winning Best Costume Design for “Al-Sarram”.
The play “Al-Sarram” also won Best Music, while Mohammed Abdulraouf Al-Yousef received Best Lighting Design for “Until Hope Fades”. The Best Set Design award went to the play “Al-Ta‘teel”.
In acting categories, Abdullah Al-Turki won Best Actor in a Leading Role for “Al-Sarram”, while Ma‘alim Hussein Al-Ibrahim won Best Actress in a Leading Role. Jawad Al-Sanng received Best Supporting Actor, and Marwa Al-Shafei won Best Supporting Actress.
The Best Play Script award went to “Al-Ta‘teel”, written by Majed Al-Siyahati and Ishraq Al-Roqi. Sultan Al-Nouh won Best Director for “Al-Sarram”, which also received the award for Best Integrated Theatrical Production.
Throughout the festival, audiences engaged with a vibrant theatrical movement through performances, specialized training workshops, critical readings, and panel discussions that highlighted the growth of Saudi theater.
The festival also honored theater pioneers Ibrahim Al-Hamdan and Abdulrahman Al-Muraikhi (may he rest in peace) in recognition of their foundational contributions to Saudi theater.
The Riyadh Theater Festival stands as an annual platform celebrating theatrical creativity and showcasing national talents, contributing to the development of a dynamic theater scene that reflects Saudi cultural identity and diversity.
