Malika Zirari: The play “Arabs of Berlin” returns to the stage 20 years after it was written
Welcome to Takafu in today's edition, where we will stop at two plays that were showcased in Paris. The first is "Al-Majnoon" by Tunisian director Taoufik Jebali, based on the text by Gibran Khalil Gibran. The second play is "Al-Arab" which is currently being shown in Paris, directed by the Moroccan Malikah Zarari and written by the actress and playwright Jameela Bakar. The beginning of the journey was when the beloved Habib Bourguiba of Tunisia was commemorated in Paris, sparking a series of shows for "Al-Majnoon" produced by Teatro Theater in Tunisia and directed by Taoufik Jebali. Despite the few differences in the performance compared to its original production almost 20 years ago, the play still holds a touch of spirituality, addressing themes of authority, mistakes, and tyranny that plague the world. We bring you a report from the theater shows in Paris, where the Tunisian artistic community gathered to watch the plays. The play "Majnoon" by Gibran Khalil Gibran captivated the audience for three days, with a strong presence of the Tunisian expatriate community in Paris. The process of bringing the play to Paris was not without its challenges, as there were concerns about misunderstandings regarding its content. However, the director Taoufik Jebali emphasized the literary nature of Gibran's work and the spiritual essence that resonates throughout the play. The reception of the plays in Paris was overwhelmingly positive, with audiences appreciating the artistic and modern approach taken by the directors and playwrights. The plays not only entertained but also provoked thoughts on identity, family, and the impact of suspicion and accusations on individuals and communities. We hope that this season of theater in Paris will continue to bring forth thought-provoking and engaging works that challenge perceptions and inspire audiences.