Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali with other officials.
Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali has said that the Ministry supports theatre in Qatar academically and financially to achieve the vision of creating an authentic society with authentic mind and fit body.
Asked by QNA during his visit to Al Ghad drama band if the Ministry was planning to cancel the academic theatre program at Community College, the Minister said it was unlikely, adding that he asked for a detailed report on the programme, its usefulness and how those who attend it benefit the theatre movement so as not to become a mere certificate to get a job without real benefit for theater renaissance.
Al Ali said the country supports theater and all arts because of their role in promoting human intellect and amending wrong behaviours in society, calling on theatre professionals to restore the spirit of Qatari theatre that had adopted community issues in the past, noting that freedom is guaranteed for all kinds of creativity.
The Minister spoke about a number of issues the society is facing, including divorce and dealing with autist children, and called on theatre practitioners to address them. Al Ali also suggested a mobile theater, especially during the camping season where theatre can go to the crowd, highlighting the importance of attracting Qatari youth to the different phases of theatre work.
The minister reiterated the increase in financial support to participants in Doha Theatre Festival, which will take place in April and May, from QR 120,000 to QR600,000, noting that competitiveness will rise among the four theatre bands after his visit to them. He also promised to continue to meet with theatre bands every three months to discuss their issues.
