Mais Kamar: 'Creature 404' is a different experience... I dislike restricting comedians to a script

Artist Mais Kamar confirmed that 2026 marks one of the most significant milestones in her artistic career, expressing her joy over the successes she has achieved on both the theatrical and television fronts. She noted that she has delivered works she is proud of, which have contributed to strengthening her artistic portfolio.

In an interview with Al-Anbaa, Mais said she is currently experiencing a different artistic journey through her participation in the play “The Entity 404” with Al-Salam Theatre. She explained that the production features a new approach and an unconventional concept, blending fantasy and suspense within a family-oriented framework. The play also marks her first theatrical collaboration with artist Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Muslem, whom she considers an important addition to her body of work alongside star Bushra Al-Raish. Mais revealed that she portrays a wife and mother who is deeply concerned for her family, yet her character is ambivalent, oscillating between supporting and opposing modern technology. She hinted that the role is among the distinctive characters she thoroughly enjoyed performing.

Regarding the chemistry between her and Bushra Al-Raish, Mais said: “Bushra is my dear friend. She is a talented and spontaneous artist whose acting reaches the heart directly. She listens to others’ opinions and engages with them. She surprised me with her mastery and high stage presence, especially since this was her first experience in adult theater. The atmosphere between us was wonderful, and as soon as the jokes were delivered, the theater erupted in laughter.”

She also praised artist Shahab Hajjia, describing him as a smart artist with a distinctive style, and affirmed that her testimony regarding his talent is impeccable. Regarding improvisation in comedy, she clarified that she does not support binding the comedic actor strictly to the script, considering improvisation necessary to serve the character and the work, provided the artist does not deviate from the context of the events or the subject matter. She revealed that the audience responded enthusiastically to the musical numbers in “Kain 404,” noting that she performed two songs live, accompanied by expressive movements, set to the tune of a traditional Iraqi song that became a trending topic among the audience.

Mays emphasized that comedy is the artistic genre closest to her heart, despite her success in serious dramatic roles in works such as “Sister Fakhria,” “Al-Ghamida,” and “Limits of Evil.” Speaking about her repeated collaboration with star Huda Hussein, she said, “She is an elegant artist who is deeply aware of her craft. I always say she flies off the beaten path, and my projects with her are among the most beautiful experiences, starting from the play ‘Al-Taqaga Noura.’ She granted me considerable freedom on stage and even suggested some jokes that I delivered to the audience.” She pointed out that Huda Hussein was behind her nomination for the series “Sister Fakhria,” directed by Manaf Abdul, and praised her performance alongside writer Hiba Mashaari Hamada, whom she described as “the owner of the legendary pen.” This opened the door for Mays to participate in the series “Al-Ghamida,” in which she portrayed the loyal friend of “Widad,” played by Huda Hussein. She affirmed that the work presented a model of a beautiful friendship that has become rare nowadays.

Mays spoke about her participation in the Arab Gulf series “Al-Ba’ Tahtaha Nuqta,” describing it as a distinctive experience, especially with the renowned Egyptian star Susan Badr, whom she characterized as an elegant, humble artist of high moral character. She noted that Badr’s advice during filming was a valuable addition to her work, and that the audience praised the duet shared between them. She hinted that the series featured an elite group of Arab artists, including Eman El Sayed from Egypt, Rola Bqasmati and Wissam Al Sayegh from Lebanon, and Daren Haddad from Tunisia.

Regarding the currently airing series “Sister Fakhria,” she revealed that she portrays a strong and strict director, confirming that upcoming episodes will feature many surprises related to this character.

As for the star Dr. Tariq Al-Ali, she said, “I have missed sharing the stage with him over the past two years. To me, he is a formidable artistic icon and a school of thought in itself, and my testimony regarding his talent is impeccable. He is one of the few stars capable of achieving success and full-house shows. He is the king of improvisation and belongs to the school of the late artist Abdulhussain Abdulredha, who once said that his best student was Tariq Al-Ali.” She affirmed that working alongside talents of the caliber of Dr. Tariq Al-Ali, Huda Hussein, and Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Mutairi represents a significant addition to any artist, as each of them constitutes an independent artistic school with a unique style.

In conclusion, Mays Kammar revealed the character she hopes to portray in the future, saying, “I have played most roles, but my dream remains to embody the character of a madwoman in a strong and profound dramatic work.”