By John Owoo
(In Tunis – Tunisia)
A Kuwaiti production titled “Mute” created a semblance of refection and deep thought on the audience after a wonderful performance by a three-man cast at the 4ème Art Theatre in downtown Tunis.
Directed by Sulayman Al Bassam, the production opened with a moving commentary on the massive explosion that rocked a Beirut (Lebanon) port in August 2020 that killed hundreds and resulted in 300,000 being made homeless.
Performed by Hala Omran, Abed Kobeissy and Ali Hout, the performance brought to light diverse issues in social and political life through shrewd poetic devices that captured the interest of the audience, who listened with rapt attention.
Interspersed with drum and oud rhythms, the artists equally lamented on the escalating violence all over the Arab world while calling for the need for a resistance – especially a cohesive one by artists through their craft – as they equally questioned their silence.
In a related performance at the Mondial Theatre, a Spanish production titled “Afrikan Party” treated the audience to a futuristic performance through dance, which depicted Africa in the 2090s while showcasing the life of the African child from cradle to grave.
With three performers, Yemi Osokoya, Tebza Diphehlo and Ambrose Tjark clad in boxing-like costumes and powder smeared on the bodies, they portrayed the richness and diversity pf African traditions and culture through various inventive movements.
The performances forms part of the 2023 edition of Journées Théâtrales de Carthage Festival, which opened on Saturday December 2, 2023. It will feature 62 performances from 28 countries in various venues throughout Tunis and beyond.
Pix – Courtesy of Journées Théâtrales de Carthage
