Badawi Theater Festival to Convene in Ifrane, Focusing on Art's Role in Development

The city of Ifrane in Morocco is set to host the 45th edition of the Badawi Theater Festival, a prominent national theatrical event. Running from July 15 to 19, this year's festival is themed "Art in Service of Development," emphasizing the crucial role of art and culture as drivers of progress.

Organizers have curated a diverse program that includes theatrical performances, traditional folk arts, and intellectual discussions. A key highlight will be the performance of "The Visit," a play written by the late Abdelkader Badawi and directed by Karima Badawi, which continues the tradition of popular, committed theater established by the festival's founder.

The festival also dedicates significant attention to children and youth with a performance of "The Treasure," also penned by Abdelkader Badawi and directed by Hasnaa Badawi. This production features a cast including Hasnaa Badawi, Brahim El Amari, Osama Hanine, Afaf Ztouiti, Mostafa Tanane, Bassem Daoud, and Amina Amallali.

Beyond the stage, the festival aims to connect with the local region and the cultural heritage of the Middle Atlas mountains. This will be showcased through folk art performances, particularly by Ahidous troupes, highlighting the deep connection between theater and the region's traditional arts. The intellectual dimension will be strong, with a seminar on "Art in Service of Development" featuring insights from Amazigh culture researcher Hassan Zeroual and legal sciences researcher Manar El Kziri.

The program also includes honoring community figures in the Ifrane province for their contributions to cultural life and local development. An exhibition titled "Badawi Theater... A Memory of Theater, A Memory of a Nation" will trace the festival's history and its impact on Moroccan theater. The event is organized in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, in collaboration with the Mohammed V National Theater, and coordinated with the Ifrane commune.