Kuwait city: The Qatari play The Shoeshiner emerged as a standout production at the eighth edition of the Kuwait International Monodrama Festival, securing two prestigious awards.

According to Qatar News Agency, the play was honored with the award for Best Script and the Special Jury Award. Additionally, artist Hafez Khalifa received a Certificate of Appreciation for his exceptional work in scenography for the production. The play, crafted by Dr. Khalid Al Jaber with dramaturgy by Boukthir Douma, was directed and designed by Hafez Khalifa and performed by Mohammed Al Abbasi.

The Shoeshiner, presented in a monodrama format, explores the challenges faced by contemporary Arab individuals amid political and social transformations. Through a single character, the play delves into an intense internal conflict, enriched with multiple voices and meanings, highlighting themes of alienation and futility.

The festival, which concluded at the Kuwait National Museum, spanned five days and featured participation from numerous Arab and international theatre troupes. It was held under the patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, who also chairs the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters.

Named after Kuwaiti artist Ibrahim Al Sallal, this year's festival honored his nearly 50-year artistic career. The event showcased 11 theatrical performances, including notable productions like Abaya from Kuwait, The Scarecrow Maker from Oman, and Lament for Media from Spain.

Lament for Media directed by Rafael Benito claimed the awards for Best Director and Best Scenographer. South Africa's Seifmo Motsuri won Best Actor, while the Best Actress award was shared between Iraq's Catherine Hashim for Red Moon and Palestine's Tehani Suleiman for Deep Voices. The festival's closing ceremony also celebrated the committees and featured the play A Blind Scene.

The festival's jury provided recommendations for future editions, suggesting an increase in festival days, the organization of workshops on solo performance and monodrama directing, and enhancements in technical infrastructure. These recommendations underscore the festival's cultural significance and its role in enriching the theatrical landscape.

Monodrama, a theatrical art form centered on a single performer, requires the actor to convey multiple characters through their voice and movement. The success of such productions relies heavily on the actor's energy, persuasion, and impact on the audience.