Al-Jumaa to Al-Rai: The Artist is a True Partner in Production and Project Creation
Director of the Theater and Cinema Administration sees Al-Dasmah Theater as a model of partnership between artists, the private sector, and the government
Translated by Qiyas from الراي — Original source
As the tender for the development and operation of the Dasma Theater was awarded to Al Salam Media Group, owned by producer and artist Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Muslem, Yusuf Al-Jumaan, Director of the Theater and Cinema Department at the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, emphasized the critical importance of the Dasma Theater project, particularly at this stage. “We are discussing not merely the renovation of a theater, but a broader initiative involving public-private partnership,” he said.
In a statement to Al-Rai, Al-Jumaan added, “Today, we cannot rely on a single entity to develop such projects. Each party brings its own resources and expertise. By combining these strengths, we can achieve better results and significantly enhance facilities and productions. Here, I wish to highlight an important point: the role of the artist.”
He clarified, “The artist today is no longer limited to being an actor, director, or participant whose role ends with the production. An artist can become a genuine partner in production and project development, as they possess ideas, expertise, and a deep understanding of the work and audience needs.”
He continued, “Conversely, production and media companies have expertise in production, marketing, investment, and project management. By bringing together artists, production companies, and the government’s role in providing the environment, infrastructure, and regulatory framework, I believe we can build a stronger artistic and production ecosystem. In my view, the Dasma Theater can serve as an excellent model for this concept.”
Al-Jumaan further stated, “We want the theater to be more than just a venue for presenting performances; it should be a space where artists, producers, companies, and the audience converge, giving rise to new projects and ideas.”
Concluding his remarks, he said, “Ultimately, we are committed to preserving the history and status of the Dasma Theater while simultaneously developing it to meet the needs of the coming era. I believe this is the most crucial aspect: preserving the past, developing the present, and opening doors for the future.”
Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Muslem has a special connection with the Dasma Theater dating back to the early days following Kuwait’s liberation. With the approval of the then-Minister of Information, the late Dr. Badr Al-Yaqoob, he took the initiative to restore the theater at his own expense, supported by volunteers from Kuwaiti citizens who had endured the Iraqi occupation. The restoration work included repairing electrical and sanitary facilities, repainting, and general refurbishment, after the theater and its contents had suffered significant damage.
