Sharjah’s Ruler Secures Funding for 20th UAE Children’s Theatre Festival
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has approved AED950,000 to support the prestigious biennial celebration of young theatrical talent, reaffirming the emirate's commitment to nurturing the next generation of performers.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has given his approval for a budget of AED950,000 to fund the 20th edition of the UAE Children’s Theatre Festival. The event, scheduled for December, will be organised by the Theatre Association in collaboration with the Department of Culture.
The generous allocation represents His Highness’s unwavering commitment to young people as integral members of society, alongside his dedication to cultivating their creative abilities through sustainable cultural initiatives. By channelling support towards theatrical endeavours, the Ruler demonstrates his vision of developing children’s performance capabilities to align with international benchmarks.
Abdullah Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture, emphasised that such patronage facilitates the progression and refinement of young performers. He highlighted how this investment fosters equilibrium between intellectual and practical engagement, reflecting an understanding that children’s theatre proves instrumental in shaping emerging generations and fostering a thoughtful society equipped to navigate contemporary challenges.
The festival objectives are multifaceted. They encompass advancing children’s theatre across the UAE, encouraging community groups to develop theatrical productions for young audiences, and reinforcing the role that such performances play in instilling moral principles, cultural heritage and patriotic values. Equally significant is the provision of an environment that remains simultaneously enjoyable, enriching and educational for participants.
Ismail Abdullah, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Theatrical Association, conveyed profound gratitude to His Highness for this substantive backing. He characterised the decision as a catalyst that will motivate theatre practitioners and cultivate an atmosphere of appreciation among enthusiasts. The commitment, he noted, will elevate the calibre of creative work specifically conceived for young audiences, with the Association, Department of Culture and relevant partners collaborating to ensure a December festival of exceptional artistic and production standards.
Source: WAM