The Third Ranya Theater Festival wrapped up with a joyful and heartfelt closing ceremony at the Ranya Children’s Cultural Hall. Artists, actors, and cultural figures from across the region came together to celebrate the power of theater, creativity, and community. The event was filled with vibrant performances, thoughtful discussions, and well-deserved awards for the talented participants.
The evening began with a lively dance performance by the Ranya National Art Troupe, setting a festive tone before the ceremony honored the hard work and passion of the actors and theater groups who took part in the festival. Smiles and applause filled the room as awards and certificates were handed out, recognizing both emerging and established talents.
The festival’s opening day offered a rich variety of plays that captured the audience’s imagination. Theater Outside Theater, written by Sidiq Ali and directed by Rizgar Sangari, was performed by the Ranya Cultural and Artistic Center Theater Group, bringing a fresh perspective to the stage. Another standout was Hunger, inspired by Bahram Afshari’s idea and brought to life by the Dialog Theater Group from Kirkuk under the direction of Hama Theater.
Other powerful performances included Stone Theater, created by Omid Kamal and his team from the Piramagrun Theater Group; Suicide Theater, a Russian play translated and directed by Bakr Mahmud for the Sardam Theater Group from Qaladze; and Refugee Theater, written and directed by Rebaz Muhammad and performed by the Kifri Theater Group.
Beyond the performances, the festival fostered m
eaningful conversations with a panel discussion where artists and audiences explored the themes and messages behind the plays.
The Third Ranya Theater Festival was more than just a series of shows—it was a celebration of Kurdish culture, creativity, and the shared stories that connect communities. As the curtain closed, there was a strong sense of hope and excitement for the future of theater in the region.