HE the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage Dr Hamad bin Abdul Aziz al-Kuwari
QNA/Doha
HE the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage Dr Hamad bin Abdul Aziz al-Kuwari met prominent figures of the Qatari theatre, as well as intellectuals and mediapersons to discuss ways to encourage the theatre movement in Qatar.
The Minister said that his meeting was part of the Ministry’s continuous effort to promote the theatre movement in Qatar. He added that the ministry had taken a number of steps to promote theatre, including providing acting, writing and directing workshops.
The Ministry is also looking to establish two new theatre teams, in addition to working on creating an online library to document Qatari plays. The Minister called on all parties interested in culture in Qatar to work together to promote the theatre movement in Qatar.
The Minister listened to the ideas of intellectuals regarding possible new projects for the ministry to adapt. He also took the chance to answer a number of questions, including the possibility of lifting censorship on theatre and bringing back the Doha Cultural festival.
In response to the first question, the Minister said that censorship on theater was not a political decision but rather a social one. He noted that the majority of countries censor theatre. He said that the role of theatre is to enlighten in the first place; as it sheds lights on problems in society and how to overcome them.
On the return of the cultural festival, the Minister said that the proposal was being considered, especially as it needs a big budget.
