Streets of Iraqi capital welcome 25 local, foreign theater troupes

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Twenty-five theater troupes from Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and Arab and other foreign countries gathered at the 5th International Street Theater Festival in Baghdad over the weekend.

Troupes performed on the streets in the Iraqi capital.

"We chose 15 groups and they started their plays. Another 10 European and Arab groups also started their own plays," explained organizer Karim Khanjar.

Despite recent waves of conflict, Baghdad was once known for being a top city in the Middle East for the arts.

"Troupes also came from Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, France and Kuwait. They all took part in the festival. Attendees welcomed the plays," added Khanjar.

The plays were held on various streets throughout Baghdad and will end on Monday.

"We are pleased to have participated in the street play in Baghdad. It is good making a contact to some extent and an introduction with a gathering. You feel happy when you see others' performances and they see our Kurds' performances so we learn one another’s level," said Muzhada Jawhar.

She acted in the play 'Brave Girl' and represented Garmiyan and the Kifri Fine Arts Institute.

Last year, just three cities in the Kurdistan Region took part including Kirkuk, Kifri and Koya.

"We won three awards. This year, the number has increased to five cities including Halabja, Kirkuk, Koya, Kifri, and Chamchamal," director Najad Najim said.

On the final day of the festival, a nine-member committee will award the best plays.

Reporting by Halkawt Aziz