Opening Ceremony

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) launches with the Opening Ceremony of the sixth edition of the Ithra Short Play Contest on August 10, 2026. This event is a celebration of theatrical talent and a form of cultural expression, representing the journey of an outstanding creative initiative. The event also comes to encourage artistic innovation, creative expression, and meaningful community participation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and to promote cultural exchange at the local and international levels.

This event confirms Ithra's commitment to sponsoring the performing arts and supporting emerging theater and artists. With a dedication to a personality who contributed to the local and regional theater scene throughout his career. The Opening Ceremony will conclude with a host Saudi show.

Nours Theater Group
The name of the hosted theatrical show is Container
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Container Synopsis:

The play is about an immigrant couple who are stuck in a cold metal container, where they are forced to come face-to-face with their relatioship.

We are exposed to their revelations about their past, which is full of happiness and disappointment, starting from the first moments of their acquaintance and the husband’s desire to secure a decent life for his family and his adherence to this noble goal to the utmost degree and his entry into the area of trouble.

While they're stuck together...the past rises from its ashes—real, hurtful, and unforgettable.

Cast & Crew:
Directed by: Aqeel Khamis
Written by: Abbas Al-Hayek
Acting:
Kumail Al-Ali
Maryam Hussein
Hassan Al-Ali

Music composition: Ahmed Al-Ali
Scenography and lighting design: Muhammad Raouf
Dramaturg: Kumail Al-Ali
Stage management: Ahmed Al-Sihati
Production Management: Muhammad Shuwaikhat
General supervision: Amin Al-Youssef