Saudi Theater Groups

Saudi Theater Groups were previously formed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the auspices of theater clubs within universities and branches of various theater committees of the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts. Following the establishment of the Saudi Playwrights Association in 2007, under the direction of the Ministry of Culture and Media at the time, the association continued to license the work of numerous private groups for theatrical performances. Additionally, it played a role in talent development and conducting workshops and courses, serving as the primary incubator for Saudi playwrights until the establishment of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission in 2020. This commission has since played a role in enriching and advancing the field. The activity of Saudi theater groups varies from one city to another. Some branches are more active than others, such as those in Taif, al-Ahsa, and Dammam, in terms of quality, quantity of activities, and their track record of winning awards, both locally and internationally.

Starting in early 2000, community theater resumed its activities, with theater groups presenting annual comedic plays during official holidays and Eid al-Fitr. Additionally, the Saudi theater took off from Makkah al-Mukarramah in 2018, organized by the Makkah Region Youth Initiatives Council. Its plays were performed at the Jeddah Literary Club Theater, where a genre called vaudeville was introduced. This genre addresses meaningful social themes through humorous contradictions. The branches of the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts regularly host and embrace theatrical performances by groups from other cities, sharing their stages for these performances. The shows often take place in theaters in al-Ahsa, Taif, and Dammam; these are the only branches of the society that own theaters for hosting performances. Meanwhile, other groups resort to borrowing or booking theaters from educational administrations, universities, and others.