Mohamed Riyad Reveals Challenges Behind Taking Egypt’s National Theater Festival to Provinces
Egyptian actor Mohamed Riyad revealed the challenges he faced after expanding the National Theater Festival beyond Cairo, emphasizing the importance of cultural justice and bringing theater closer to audiences across Egypt.
Egyptian actor Mohamed Riyad spoke about the controversy surrounding the decision to take activities of the National Theater Festival outside Cairo and into Egyptian provinces, stressing that the move was driven by his belief in cultural equality and the importance of making art accessible to everyone.
During a special seminar honoring director Sabry Nassif, Riyad explained that the decision faced criticism, but he remained committed to the idea because Egyptian theater belongs to all citizens, not only audiences in the capital.
He emphasized that spreading cultural events across different governorates helps discover new talents and strengthens the theatrical movement throughout Egypt.
Riyad also expressed his hope that future organizers would continue this achievement and preserve the festival’s expanded vision, highlighting the importance of maintaining cultural projects that connect artists with audiences nationwide.
The festival’s opening ceremony featured the artistic performance “Safar”, created with a vision by artist Walid Aouni. The performance relied on movement, visual storytelling, and theatrical imagery to represent the journey of Egyptian theater across different regions.
Aouni explained that the concept was inspired by the festival’s expansion into various provinces, creating a symbolic journey that reflects Egypt’s cultural diversity.
The performance included elements inspired by Upper Egyptian heritage, Nubian traditions, Alexandria’s atmosphere, and rural Egyptian culture, presenting a visual celebration of the country’s identity.
The show also followed a symbolic story of two characters who appeared on the festival poster, representing a journey that develops from a first meeting to engagement and marriage, symbolizing the completion of the festival’s cultural mission.
The opening ceremony honored several major figures in Egyptian art, including Isaad Younis, Shahira, Ahmed Abdel Aziz, Ahmed Maher, director Magdy Megahed, critic Hamdy El Gabry, and director Ahmed El Banahawy.
Through its new direction, the National Theater Festival continues to promote creativity, support emerging talents, and strengthen the role of theater as an essential part of cultural awareness.
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