The second edition of the M'hamed Benguettaf Theatrical Festival began on a Saturday evening at the Naâma Regional Theatre. The event, scheduled to run until October 14, brings together artists, researchers, students, and theatre enthusiasts for a celebration of the performing arts. The festival pays tribute to M'hamed Benguettaf, a renowned Algerian playwright and theatre personality. It aims to promote the development of new talent and preserve the country's rich cultural heritage.
The festival's program includes a theatrical competition featuring five productions from different regions of Algeria. The competing shows are "El Mehraz" by the Noujoum El Fen Hassan Hassani association from Sidi Bel Abbès, "El Moutahha" by the Djawharat El Masrah wa El Founoun association from Aïn Témouchent, "Nirvana" by the Sarti Valéry arts and youth cooperative from Sidi Bel Abbès, "Mahkamat Essifr" by the El Fen El Assil cultural association in partnership with the Laghouat Regional Theatre, and "Wahed min El Joumhour" by the Helme El Fen cultural association from Oran.
In addition to the theatrical performances, the festival features a scientific colloquium focusing on performance, actor training, and the teaching of dramatic arts in Algeria. The colloquium is presided over by academic and theatre director Lakhdar Mansouri. The event also includes specialized workshops on scenography and vocal education, led by experts Hamza Djaballah and Abdelhakim Madani. These activities aim to enhance the technical and artistic skills of participants and deepen their practice.
The opening ceremony honored the memory of M'hamed Benguettaf, with musical interludes and a documentary film showcasing his life and work. The film, directed by Abdelaziz Lachlah, highlighted Benguettaf's contributions to Algerian theatre. Several cultural and artistic personalities were also recognized for their achievements, including Mohamed Djellab, Bella Boumediene, and Mohamed Yahiaoui.
The festival's organizers stress the importance of preserving the legacy of pioneers like M'hamed Benguettaf while providing opportunities for young artists to emerge. The event is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Arts and local authorities. According to Ibrahim Djaballah, director of the Naâma Regional Theatre, the festival's impact extends beyond the performances, fostering dialogue and the exchange of ideas among participants.
The festival also highlights the role of culture in preserving national identity and transmitting heritage to future generations. The Algerian authorities reaffirm their support for cultural initiatives and artistic talent. The event provides a platform for artists, researchers, and enthusiasts to come together and celebrate the country's rich cultural diversity.
The young generation has a significant presence at the festival, with children who participated in summer cultural and arts workshops being honored. This initiative emphasizes the importance of introducing culture and arts to young people and nurturing their talents. The festival continues until October 14, with the aim of promoting Algerian theatre and encouraging new talent.
Key points
- The festival features a competition among five theatrical productions from different Algerian regions.
- A scientific colloquium and specialized workshops are part of the festival's program.
- The event pays tribute to M'hamed Benguettaf and aims to promote the development of new talent in Algerian theatre.
