The Egyptian project "Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Capacity Building for the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Al-Arragoz and Traditional Hand Puppets" has announced a series of 50 public shows across Egypt. These shows are part of the project's efforts to preserve and promote traditional Al-Arragoz puppet art. The project is a collaboration between the Egyptian Ministry of Culture's Cultural Development Fund, UNESCO, and the "Ferqat Wamda" troupe, which is leading the training process.
The shows will feature performances by experienced artists and young trainees who have undergone training as part of the project. The aim is to pass on the skills and knowledge of traditional Al-Arragoz puppetry to a new generation. The shows will be performed in various locations, including Cairo, Alexandria, and several governorates in Upper Egypt. This initiative seeks to raise awareness about the importance of preserving traditional arts and to make them more accessible to a wider audience.
The project includes a training program designed by Dr. Nabil Bahgat, the project's scientific expert. The program combines theoretical and practical training, covering topics such as the history and philosophy of Al-Arragoz, as well as hands-on training in puppet-making and performance skills. The project also aims to provide a platform for young artists to showcase their talents and gain experience in performing in front of a live audience.
The shows will be supervised by experienced artists from "Ferqat Wamda," including Sabri Saad Metwally, Samir Shokouko, and Mustafa Al-Sabbagh. The project will also produce educational materials to raise awareness about the significance of traditional arts. By presenting these shows in various governorates, including border areas and Upper Egypt, the project aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding.
The project's goals include reaching over 15,000 viewers, with a focus on schools, cultural centers, and community associations in areas with limited access to cultural events. The shows will be performed over two years, with 25 shows per year, and will include interactive sessions and discussions with the audience. This initiative is part of a broader effort to preserve and promote Egypt's cultural heritage.
The collaboration between experienced artists and young trainees is seen as essential to ensuring the sustainability of traditional Al-Arragoz puppetry. By passing on skills and knowledge to a new generation, the project aims to help safeguard this traditional art form. The project's activities also include documenting and archiving the shows, creating a permanent exhibition space, and hosting an international conference to discuss policies for preserving traditional puppet arts.
The project's partners, including the Cultural Development Fund, UNESCO, and "Ferqat Wamda," are committed to promoting and preserving Egypt's cultural heritage. By supporting initiatives like this project, they aim to contribute to the country's rich cultural landscape and ensure the continued relevance of traditional arts in modern Egyptian society.
Key points
- The project aims to present 50 public shows across Egypt to promote and preserve traditional Al-Arragoz puppet art.
- The shows will feature performances by experienced artists and young trainees who have undergone training as part of the project.
- The project's goals include reaching over 15,000 viewers and promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
