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We are closed and will open at 04:00 pm
Reserve your seat to attend a carefully curated selection of short plays, chosen to present authentic, vibrant, and powerful theatrical content that reflects local creativity and the voices of a new generation.
These performances will take you on a journey of emotions — from spontaneous laughter to moments of deep reflection — brought to life by dynamic young talents whose passion captures the renewed spirit of Saudi theatre.
Each play is a free space for a bold Saudi voice, and every scene is a step toward a homegrown theatrical movement that speaks our language, reflects our identity, and shares our realities and dreams.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the birth of a new wave of Saudi theatre… this is where the story begins.
As for the accompanying events of the competition, entry is free but limited according to the area's capacity.
The ticket grants you:
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Access to the theater shows
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Meet celebrities, directors, and attend cultural seminars.
Includes exclusive sessions with industry experts for advice and guidance (by appointment). -
Access to the Networking Area.
Meet industry experts and participants in the contest.
Theater Shows
Opening & Closing Ceremony
Accompanying programs
Panel discussion: The Role of Artists in Shaping the Saudi Theater
14th August 2025
6:45 PM - 7:30 PM
+12
Arabic
Theater
Panel discussion: The Role of Mentorship in Refining Theatrical
15th August 2025
5:00 PM - 5:45 PM
+12
Arabic
Theater
In collaboration with
FAQs
What is the duration of the fifth edition of the Ithra Short Play Contest 2025?
The fifth edition of the Ithra Short Play Contest 2025 will be held over six days from August 11 to 16, 2025.
Where will the fifth edition of the Ithra Short Play Contest 2025 be held?
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is hosting the fifth edition of the Ithra Short Play Contest 2025, and a series of distinguished programs will be presented in the Ithra Theater and supporting spaces.
How many plays will be presented during the contest?
Ten competition plays and three hosted performances will be presented across the six days from August 11 to 16, 2025.
How can I purchase tickets to attend the programs and activities of the fifth edition of the contest?
Tickets are sold through Ithra's website or through designated points of sale within the Center.
How can I find out the showtimes for theatrical performances and accompanying programs?
To view the full list of theatrical performances, please visit the contest website link.
When is the opening ceremony held?
The opening ceremony will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025.
Does attendance at the opening and closing performances require tickets?
Yes, but tickets to the opening and closing ceremonies are free. Those wishing to attend the ceremony can get tickets through designated points of sale within the Center. Online sales for this offering will not be available.
Does attendance at the hosted performance require tickets?
Yes, but tickets to the hosted performance are free. Those wishing to attend the hosted performance can get tickets through designated points of sale within the Center. Online sales for this offering will not be available.
Are visitors allowed to enter the accompanying programs? And how?
Yes, visitors are allowed to enter the accompanying programs, seminars, critical discussions and the Networking Area after purchasing "tickets to enter theatrical performances." As for the accompanying events of the competition, entry is free but limited according to the area's capacity.
When will the contest award winners be announced?
The winners will be announced during the closing ceremony on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
Will the theatrical performances be broadcast on any of the channels?
No, theatrical performances will not be broadcast during this edition of the festival.
What are the ticket prices for theatrical performances?
A ticket to a theatrical performance costs 20 riyals, which also includes access to accompanying activities on the same day.
Are there full-day tickets?
No, full-day tickets are not available.
Does attending the seminars require advance registration?
Attendance does not require advance registration, but a ticket to a theatrical performance on the same date as the seminar must be purchased.
What is the procedure for booking an appointment for the expert meeting?
Appointments for the expert meeting can be booked through the link, and booking must be made at least one day in advance.