Tunisian actress Khadija Bakoush spoke about her connection to Egyptian drama and theater, emphasizing the strong presence of Egyptian art in her upbringing.
She also discussed her experience with the theatrical production “Fingers of Jasmine” and its participation in several Arab theater festivals.
Khadija Bakoush: We Grew Up with Egyptian Drama and Theater
Khadija Bakoush said that Egyptian drama and theatrical productions were an important part of her upbringing.
She explained that Egyptian art has maintained a strong presence across the Arab world because of its long history and widespread reach, making its productions familiar to generations of Arab audiences.
How Theater Differs from Cinema
Bakoush also discussed the unique nature of theater, explaining that a theatrical production can evolve with every festival and every new performance.
A Play Changes From One Venue to Another
According to Bakoush, a theatrical performance can feel different depending on the theater, the venue and the audience.
She emphasized that the energy created by the audience can also influence each performance, giving theater a live quality that makes every presentation a distinct experience.
Cinema, by comparison, follows a different process because filming is completed before the finished production reaches audiences.
«Fingers of Jasmine» at the Isis Festival in Cairo
Khadija Bakoush revealed that the latest participation of “Fingers of Jasmine” took place in Cairo as part of the Isis International Women’s Theatre Festival.
She explained that the production took on a different character when performed at Al-Hanager Theatre, particularly because of the venue, the audience and the strong female energy associated with the festival.
A Different Experience with Cairo Audiences
Bakoush noted that changing the venue and audience can influence the details of a theatrical performance.
She considered the concept of a festival dedicated to women’s theater particularly significant because it provides a platform for theatrical experiences led and performed by women.
Ilham Mohammed and the Challenge of Emirati Theater
Bakoush spoke about Emirati director Ilham Mohammed and the distinctive nature of her theater experience.
She highlighted the importance of having a woman lead a theatrical production that travels beyond the UAE to participate in festivals and compete for recognition.
The journey of the production across different Arab theater platforms has given “Fingers of Jasmine” an opportunity to reach audiences with different cultural and theatrical backgrounds.
«Fingers of Jasmine»: A Two-Actor Production
Khadija Bakoush expressed her happiness with the experience of “Fingers of Jasmine,” despite the production relying on only two actors.
The play features Bakoush alongside her colleague Nabil, making the interaction between the two performers a central element of the theatrical experience.
From the UAE to Egypt and Tunisia
“Fingers of Jasmine” has already taken part in several theatrical events. The production opened a two-person theater festival in the UAE before traveling to Egypt for the Isis International Women’s Theatre Festival.
The play is also preparing to participate in the Carthage Theatre Days in Tunisia, continuing its journey across Arab theater stages.
Khadija Bakoush: A Tunisian Presence in Arab Theater
Khadija Bakoush’s experience with “Fingers of Jasmine” reflects the growing space for Arab theatrical collaboration through productions that bring together artists from different backgrounds.
After appearing in the UAE and Egypt, and with its upcoming participation in Tunisia, the production continues to expand its audience while demonstrating how venue, audience and atmosphere can reshape a live theatrical experience.
Who is Khadija Bakoush?
Khadija Bakoush is a Tunisian artist who participates in theatrical productions, including “Fingers of Jasmine.”
What did Khadija Bakoush say about Egyptian art?
She said she grew up with Egyptian drama and theater and emphasized the strong presence of Egyptian art across the Arab world.
What is “Fingers of Jasmine”?
It is a theatrical production featuring Khadija Bakoush alongside her colleague Nabil.
Where has “Fingers of Jasmine” been performed?
The production has participated in events in the UAE and Egypt and is preparing to take part in Carthage Theatre Days in Tunisia.
What makes theater different according to Khadija Bakoush?
She explained that theater changes according to the venue, audience and energy created during each live performance.
