The Dhofar International Theatre Festival, organized by the Dhofar Municipality as part of the Khareef Dhofar season, has concluded its second edition. The festival took place from September 14 to 22, 2026, and was attended by over 400 participants from 50 countries worldwide. More than 120 special guests, including artists, theatre professionals, and critics, also participated in the event. The festival's theme was "A Comprehensive Cultural Experience," which brought together various artistic experiences from around the world.
The festival aimed to create a platform for cultural dialogue and exchange among participants, enriching the theatrical scene and promoting Dhofar's presence on the international cultural and artistic map. According to Ammar bin Obad Ghawas, head of the Dhofar International Theatre Festival, the event sought to build a sustainable cultural legacy that invests in human knowledge. He emphasized that theatre has become a means of communication between nations, making Dhofar a hub for cultural dialogue and interaction among different cultures.
The second edition of the festival focused on four strategic pillars, primarily presenting theatre as a bridge for communication and a common human language that promotes understanding and openness among nations. The festival also activated the "partnership of place" by utilizing Dhofar's natural and tourist attractions within the festival experience, enhancing the connection between events and the local environment. This approach aimed to create a unique and engaging experience for participants.
The festival supported local theatrical experiences through the "Dhofar Theatre" path, alongside hosting Arab and international experiences. It also emphasized the "qualification and training" axis by organizing workshops and training programs that targeted developing participants' skills and enhancing their artistic experiences. This focus on capacity building will contribute to investing in theatrical talents in the long term, ultimately enriching the Omani theatre scene.
The festival's program included a variety of theatrical performances, with some productions receiving special attention. Notably, "أسطورة شجرة اللبان" (The Legend of the Frankincense Tree) and "هاملت" (Hamlet) were among the featured performances. These productions showcased the diversity of theatrical experiences presented at the festival, highlighting the creativity and talent of participating artists.
The festival's closing ceremony saw the announcement of awards for outstanding productions. "متولى وشفيقة" (Metwali and Shafika) won two awards, while "عناية خاصة" (Special Care), "الهاربات" (The Escapes), and "غياهب الروح" (The Depths of the Soul) also received recognition. These awards acknowledged the excellence and innovation demonstrated by participating productions, further emphasizing the festival's commitment to promoting artistic excellence.
The Dhofar International Theatre Festival has solidified its position as a premier cultural event, fostering artistic exchange and promoting Omani culture globally. With its focus on inclusivity, creativity, and capacity building, the festival has set a new standard for cultural events in the region. As the event concluded, participants and attendees alike looked forward to future editions, anticipating the continued growth and impact of this significant cultural initiative.
Key points
- The festival brought together over 400 participants from 50 countries and 120 special guests.
- The event focused on promoting theatre as a bridge for communication and a common human language.
- The festival supported local theatrical experiences and provided training programs for participants.
