Al-Hamli: 10 shows compete in 'Back Stage Group'

Amid a festive atmosphere that reflected the spirit of theater and the passion for creativity, and under the patronage of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, the third edition of the “Back Stage Group” theater festival kicked off under the slogan “Creating Creative Opportunities in Theater.” The event took place on the stage of the Salimya Club, with activities running until the 11th of the current month, and saw a notable presence of artists, theater practitioners, and enthusiasts of the artistic movement. Artist Hind Al-Balushi hosted the opening segments, and the ceremony honored the renowned artist Jassim Al-Nabhane, after whom the third edition was named, in recognition of his artistic contributions and prominent role in the artistic scene. The festival personality, Chairman of its Supreme Committee, renowned artist Abdulrahman Al-Aqil, was also honored in appreciation of his distinguished artistic career. The ceremony also featured a theatrical performance titled “We Were, We Are, and We Will Remain,” directed by Sultan Mohammed, which added artistic presence to the festival’s launch.

Jassim Al-Nabhane began his speech with the saying, “He who walks the path will arrive,” emphasizing that artist Mohammed Al-Hamli embodied this meaning through his efforts and determination. Al-Nabhane also praised Al-Hamli’s initiative to nurture young talent and extend support to anyone possessing artistic talent, a creative spirit, and a passion for theater. He stressed that theater is a comprehensive school that teaches teamwork, love, cooperation, discipline, and leadership, and contributes to building citizens who love their country and hold fast to their heritage and values. He further noted his observation of Al-Hamli’s works, expressing admiration for many of them, and singled out the play “Majboos,” which remains etched in his memory for its artistic features that evoke the experiences and spirit of pioneers of Kuwaiti theater, including Abdulrahman Al-Duwaihi, Mohammed Al-Nashmi, and Saqr Al-Rashoud, may God have mercy on them.

Al-Nabhane concluded his speech by commending what Al-Hamli offers through “Back Stage Group,” affirming that the effort and work involved are not easy, and directing his greetings and appreciation to him for his efforts and initiative in serving theater.

For his part, artist Abdulrahman Al-Aqil praised Al-Hamli’s efforts in supporting youth and nurturing their talents, emphasizing the importance of the role he plays in providing opportunities for young theatrical energies. He pointed out that the National Council for Culture, represented by its Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar, and the Assistant Secretary-General for Financial, Administrative, and Supporting Artistic Affairs, Muassad Al-Zamil, along with officials at the Ministry of Information, spare no effort in supporting the artistic and theatrical movement. He noted that the current stage requires sincere individuals in writing, directing, and artistic work, who are devoted to their country, and that this devotion should be reflected in every detail, whether small or large.

At the end of his speech, he expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to “Back Stage Group” for their interest in selecting him as the festival personality and Chairman of the Supreme Committee, commending this initiative as a reflection of their respect for artists and their contributions. He also wished success and achievement for all participants, addressing them with a beautiful message encouraging them to strive harder and work diligently, affirming that ambition knows no impossibilities, and that determination and resolve can achieve goals, no matter how difficult they may seem.

For his part, Festival Director Mohammed Al-Humli expressed his delight at the launch of the third edition, noting that the festival will now have a fixed annual date, held every November. He emphasized that the event aims to support young people and open new horizons for theatrical talent through an initiative produced by the private sector, driven by a conviction in its role in supporting the artistic movement and nurturing Kuwaiti artists without exception. Al-Humli praised the support and backing of senior artists for the festival, affirming that their presence and supportive stances serve as a crucial motivation for young people to continue contributing and creating. He revealed that 25 theatrical performances had applied to participate in this edition, with 10 selected in collaboration with the artistic committee, and expressed his best wishes for all participating troupes, hoping they would be successful in winning the festival’s awards.

He also extended his gratitude to the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters for sponsoring the opening and closing ceremonies, commending their support and backing of the festival. He concluded his speech by thanking all the artists and attendees who participated in the opening ceremony, affirming that their presence constitutes significant moral support for the festival and its artistic mission.

For his part, the festival’s Executive Director and artist Abdullah Al-Khudher expressed his thanks and appreciation to the attendees. He affirmed that his participation in the festival stems from two perspectives: first, as an actor and theater enthusiast, fully aware of the magnitude of responsibility that the stage bears toward the audience; and second, as a partner in Back Stage Group.

Al-Khudher clarified that the company’s ambitions go beyond merely organizing a festival and presenting theatrical performances. It seeks to be an active partner in supporting Kuwait’s artistic identity, nurturing young talent, and opening new horizons for them, just as senior artists have nurtured them, opened doors for them, and provided opportunities to showcase their talents and introduce their capabilities through festivals and artistic platforms.

Meanwhile, the festival’s General Supervisor and director Yousef Al-Hashash delivered an inspiring message to the participating youth, urging them to strive and persevere. He affirmed that a single theatrical performance can mark a turning point in an artist’s career. He noted that success is the fruit of hard work, learning, and benefiting from the experiences of senior artists, emphasizing the importance of faith in God and belief in one’s own abilities to achieve ambitions and reach the highest ranks.

In a gesture of loyalty and appreciation for the icons of the artistic movement, the third edition of the Back Stage Group Theater Festival honored several late artists: the distinguished actress Haya Al-Fahad, and artists Jaber Al-Sabah and Khalid Sultan, in commemoration of their contributions and what they offered to the artistic scene. It also honored the distinguished media personality Amal Abdullah, along with a select group of artists: the distinguished actress Hifaid Adel, Shamlan Al-Majed, Mohammed Abdulrazzaq, Hamad Al-Omani, Fahad Al-Fallah, Daajee Al-Thursday, Abdulrahman Al-Fahad, Riyal Dashti, and Ghadeer Hassan, in recognition of their careers and artistic contributions.