Al-Jassar: Literature and Arts at 'Cultural Summer'

Its activities kicked off under the patronage of the Minister of Media and Culture at the “Jaber Center.”

The events of the 18th “Summer Cultural Festival,” under the slogan “We Return Stronger Through Culture,” commenced at the Drama Theater of Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center. The opening drew a large audience eager to enjoy the event organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, under the patronage of Omar Al-Omar, Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology Affairs, Acting Minister of Media and Culture, and Chairman of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters.

Following the playing of the Kuwaiti national anthem, the event’s host, broadcaster Eman Al-Bazzaz, welcomed attendees to this annual gathering that bridges creativity and intellect, art and knowledge, creating a vibrant space for the nation’s youth and children during the summer holidays.

In his speech, delivered on behalf of the patron, Dr. Mohammed Khaled Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, said: “I am pleased to welcome you all to the opening of the 18th edition of the ‘Summer Cultural Festival,’ organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters. This marks the Council’s first major cultural festival and public event following the exceptional circumstances the State of Kuwait experienced in recent times.”

He added: “Kuwait, its leadership, government, and people, have proven that its true strength lies in national unity, social cohesion, the resilience of its people, and the conviction of its citizens that culture is not merely a recreational activity, but one of the pillars of human development, identity preservation, and the reinforcement of values of belonging and loyalty to this beloved nation.”

He continued: “Guided by this conviction, this festival is held under the slogan ‘We Return Stronger Through Culture,’ affirming that culture has been and will remain a message of hope, a bridge for connection, and a platform for consolidating national identity and evoking the values of solidarity and cooperation that distinguish Kuwaiti society under all circumstances.”

He elaborated: “In this edition, the National Council strives to present diverse cultural and artistic programs that combine literature, arts, theater, music, and heritage, alongside activities dedicated to children, youth, and families, based on our belief that true investment begins with building human capital. The festival features more than 40 events held across various cultural centers, libraries, and museums throughout the month of August.”

He stated: “We begin our opening ceremony tonight with a musical concert featuring artist Salman Al-Amiri, who is considered one of the contemporary pillars of folk heritage.”

He extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to “all partners, institutions, and government, civil, cultural, and media entities, as well as everyone who contributed to preparing and ensuring the success of this festival. I also commend the National Council’s work teams for their significant efforts in presenting this event in a manner befitting Kuwait’s cultural stature.”

The Minister also conveyed a greeting of reverence, pride, and honor to our sons and brothers on the front lines; members of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces, the Ministry of Interior, the National Guard, medical and health personnel, and all military and civil entities, who set exemplary models of sacrifice and dedication. Through their exceptional steps and sincere efforts, they embodied the highest meanings of national responsibility in protecting the homeland, safeguarding its security, and ensuring the well-being of its citizens during those exceptional circumstances.

He concluded by saying: “In this context, we can only offer our highest expressions of gratitude, pride, and appreciation to His Highness the Amir of the Country, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect and guard him, and to His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and to His Highness the Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, may God protect them, for their wise guidance, which has been and remains the impregnable fortress and steadfast support for our nation through all circumstances and trials, ensuring that our homeland remains a beacon of culture and creativity, and a message of peace and love. The musical and vocal performance then commenced, featuring the artist Salman Al-Amari, accompanied by Al-Mass Folk Arts Troupe, under the title ‘Samari with Al-Amari.’ The troupe opened the event with the rhythms of naval drums, before presenting a selection of authentic Samri art, beginning with the renowned Samri piece ‘The Eye Weeps for the Beloved in Separation.’”