Al-Zeer Salem Premiere In Sharjah Highlights Arab Heritage And Contemporary Theatre

Sharjah has staged a new production of the epic play Al-Zeer Salem at Al Majaz Amphitheatre, highlighting the emirate’s focus on culture and Arab heritage. The show presents a classic narrative in a modern form and targets diverse audiences. It also reflects Sharjah’s ongoing investment in theatre as a tool for cultural awareness and intercultural dialogue across the region.

H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the premiere performance on Friday evening. H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, was also present. Their attendance underlined official backing for large-scale theatre projects that revisit historic Arab texts through current artistic approaches.

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The staging of Al-Zeer Salem in Sharjah reflects sustained support from the Ruler of Sharjah for cultural and artistic initiatives. These projects aim to revive Arab heritage and present it through contemporary creative perspectives. This approach treats theatre as an essential part of building cultural consciousness. It also supports wider civilisational dialogue by linking historic stories with present-day values and community interests.

On arrival at Al Majaz Amphitheatre, H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan was welcomed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development. Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Districts Affairs Department, and Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah bin Salem Al Qasimi, Director of the Department of Statistics and Community Development, also received H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan. Several senior officials, media professionals, artists, and actors greeted the Ruler of Sharjah.

The production draws its story from one of the key epics in Arab heritage, offering a contemporary artistic reading of the material. The play blends dramatic intensity with human themes. It reimagines the legend in a form that moves beyond traditional staging styles. Both the visual design and narrative structure reflect ongoing development in Arab theatre and the growing range within its content.

The performance follows the events of the Basus War and tracks the journey of Al-Zeer Salem, "Abu Layla Al-Muhalhel," while seeking to avenge the killing of Kulaib. The production preserves the poetic and epic nature of the source work. At the same time, it centres on the internal struggle between ideas of revenge and justice. The narrative also addresses reconciliation and forgiveness as core humanitarian themes.

Al-Zeer Salem Sharjah cast, staging and technical elements

The show features a number of experienced Arab artists and is presented through an integrated directorial concept. The team uses a mix of artistic elements to provide a balanced theatrical experience. This includes a combination of heritage references and modern expression. Advanced visual tools support the performance, with animated designs that follow story developments, along with dramatic music, lighting and sound effects that build the atmosphere.

At the end of the performance, H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan met members of the cast and crew, including actors, performers, technical staff, and the production and direction teams. H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan thanked them for their efforts in presenting a historic epic on stage and wished them success in their future work. The interaction highlighted the importance given to theatre professionals involved in large cultural projects.

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The play runs at Al Majaz Amphitheatre in Sharjah for three days, from Friday to the following Sunday, with one performance each evening. The total running time is 120 minutes, presented as linked dramatic scenes that integrate acting, design, and music. The structure seeks to give audiences an epic journey marked by tension, reflection, and clear human depth, aligned with Sharjah’s wider cultural strategy.

With inputs from WAM