The cast of the epic play 'Zeer Salem' affirmed that the significant audience turnout during its recent performances at the Al Majaz Theatre in Sharjah reflects the public's appreciation for authentic Arab theatre and its place in their hearts. They noted that this historical epic is always worthy of being re-examined with new artistic visions. The play 'Zeer Salem' drew 4,800 spectators to the Al Majaz Theatre over three days, retelling the famous epic with the participation of a select group of Emirati and Arab artists. The production team expressed their gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his continuous support of the theatrical and arts sector and his commitment to nurturing creativity and artists. Ibrahim Salem: 'I am happy to participate in this epic, which constitutes a significant addition to my artistic career.' Amal Muhammad: 'This is a deep and profound experience rooted in a historical story that has a strong presence in the collective consciousness.' Director and lead actor Salloum Haddad stated: 'Performing at the Al Majaz Theatre in Sharjah is a rich and exceptional cultural and theatrical experience, especially in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, a patron of theatre as a cultural and humanitarian mission.' Haddad, who played the role of Zeer Salem, also highlighted Sharjah's comprehensive cultural project and the Al Majaz Theatre, which hosted one of the greatest Arab epics with a contemporary artistic vision that respects the depth and authenticity of the text, offering real creative horizons for Arab theatre. Actor Abed Fahd confirmed that the presence of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah at the premiere of the play had a profound impact on the participating artists, serving as a motivating factor that filled the performance with a joyful rhythm, especially in Sharjah, a home for art, thought, and culture. Similarly, actor Basim Yakhour believes that Sharjah embodies authenticity and creates a space for creativity, bringing together artists in a deep-rooted experience based on a historical story with a powerful presence in the Arab audience's consciousness: 'Zeer Salem,' presented with a contemporary vision to an aware and discerning audience of authentic art and folk epics. Actor Ibrahim Salem expressed his happiness at being part of the epic, noting that his experience at the Al Majaz Theatre was a valuable addition to his career. Actress Amal Muhammad, who portrayed the role of Zahra, expressed her pride and joy at performing on the Al Majaz stage before His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, stating that his presence was an exceptional source of support for her and the entire team, especially in this epic that reflects the authenticity of Arab theatre. The theatrical performance lasted 120 minutes, supported by advanced visual elements, including movable sets that mirrored the story's developments, and a dramatic rhythm of Arabic music, enhanced by lighting and sound effects that amplified the dramatic atmosphere and supported the narrative. The play 'Zeer Salem' revisited the events of the Bassus War, tracing the journey of the hero Zeer Salem (Abu Layla Al-Muhallal) in his quest for revenge for his brother Kulaib through a theatrical reading that preserves the epic and poetic nature of the work, focusing on the internal conflict between the concepts of revenge and justice in its human dimensions. Salloum Haddad: 'Zeer Salem' is one of the greatest Arab epics, presented with a contemporary artistic vision. Basim Yakhour:
'Zeer Salem' in Sharjah: Arab Epic Resonates with Large Audience
The historical play 'Zeer Salem' triumphed at the Al Majaz Theatre in Sharjah, drawing 4,800 spectators over three days. Actors and the director expressed gratitude to the emirate's leadership for its support of the arts, noting that the production, based on a famous Arab epic, successfully blends tradition with a contemporary artistic vision.