The National Assembly Launches the "Cultural Summer 18" Festival

The opening ceremony of the 18th edition of the “Summer Cultural” festival, organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters under the patronage of Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology and Acting Minister of Media and Culture Omar Al-Omar, kicked off at the Drama Theater in the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center the day before yesterday. The event was attended by Council Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed Al-Jasra, Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Al-Duwaikh Al-Sabah, Assistant Secretary-General for Cultural Affairs Aisha Al-Mahmoud, Assistant Secretary-General for Financial and Administrative Affairs Muassad Al-Zamil, veteran artist Mohammed Al-Mansour, and Manal Al-Baghdadi, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Popular Theater Troupe, alongside a notable presence of media representatives.

The opening evening conveyed multiple messages, the most prominent being that culture will remain one of Kuwait’s key pillars of strength and an effective tool for reinforcing national identity and revitalizing cultural activity.

The ceremony began with the national anthem, followed by a welcome speech delivered by the host, Iman Al-Bazzaz. Then, Dr. Mohammed Al-Jasra, Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, delivered a speech on behalf of the patron, emphasizing that this edition marks the first major public cultural event organized by the Council following the exceptional period the country has experienced, signaling the return of cultural activities with renewed vigor and a firm belief in the role of culture in human development.

Al-Jasra stated that Kuwait, through its leadership and people, has proven that national unity has been and remains a source of strength. He noted that culture is not a transient activity but a fundamental pillar for preserving national identity, enhancing belonging, and consolidating the values of dialogue and creativity.

He added that the festival’s slogan, “With Culture, We Return Stronger,” reflects the determination to continue the cultural mission and strengthen its presence in society.

He clarified that the festival program includes more than 40 events held throughout August, distributed across cultural centers, libraries, and museums. These activities encompass literary, theatrical, musical, and heritage programs, as well as specialized initiatives for children, youth, and families, offering the public a rich and diverse cultural experience.

Al-Jasra extended his highest expressions of gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah, Prime Minister, for their continuous support of the cultural landscape. He also paid tribute to the members of the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Interior, the National Guard, medical staff, and all frontline workers, commending their contributions and efforts in serving the nation.

The evening concluded with the musical concert “Samari with Al-Amari,” performed by singer Salman Al-Amari in collaboration with Al-Mass Folk Arts Troupe. The performance featured an artistic piece celebrating authentic Kuwaiti heritage and folk arts, including “Al-Ashoori” art and “Arabic and Levantine Sound” art, along with several beloved songs such as “Ghiyar,” “Ya Maniyati,” and “Salwalee,” which received a strong response from the audience. Attendees emphasized that folk arts are not merely a legacy of the past, but a living national memory.