Yes, there is. Critics divide Saudi theater since its inception into two sections: the first is the inception and authorship, and the second is theatrical work. The inception was by the writer Ahmed al-Sibai with the play "the Conquest of Makkah." Then, the sources of the theater expanded through universities, schools, and cultural and arts associations. The Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts, "formerly the Saudi Arabian Society for Arts," founded in 1973, played a significant role in supporting Saudi theatrical activities.
After the establishment of the Ministry of Culture in 2018, the Theater and Performing Arts Commission was founded in 2020 to advance the field of theater and performing arts, support and encourage funding and investment, and approve professional training programs and certification bodies specialized in the field.
The commission launches initiatives and competitions in playwriting to stimulate the field of theatrical scriptwriting and supports the winning scripts to be produced and showcased locally and globally. Through its programs and initiatives, it also creates non-seasonal events and establishes a database for performing artists, encouraging male and female Saudi performers to showcase their talents and present their works professionally.
The commission offers specialized initiatives to support professional development in the theater sector, raise awareness, and develop skills for those interested and practicing in the field by implementing short and advanced training programs, both virtual and in-person.
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