"Testosterone": Cyrine Gannoun questions Man on the Hammamet Festival stage

The International Festival of Hammamet hosted Cyrine Gannoun's new theatrical creation, "Testosterone," a piece that delves into the complexities of masculinity and challenges patriarchal norms.

With text and dramaturgy by Hamdi Hadda and Gannoun herself, the play unfolds in an undefined stage space, featuring actors Abdelmonem Chouayet and Bahri Rahali. Over the course of an hour, they dissect the concept of "Man" with a capital "H," examining his existential status, fragility, and the interplay between body and identity.

The performance creates a sense of confinement, mirroring the tightening discourse. Through sharp exchanges and poignant silences, "Testosterone" scrutinizes its central theme, weaving together narratives from the present and past. It questions how individuals shape their lives, influenced by their familial and social surroundings, exploring relationships with parents, partners, children, and work, as well as the choices and sacrifices made along the way.

Gannoun avoids offering a singular definition of "Man." Instead, she portrays him through his contradictions, his interactions with others, and the social constructs that define him. The play's creative team includes Hamza Bouchnak for music, Maher Msaddek as assistant director, Bilel Ben Romdhane for scenography, Mohamed Salah Madani for lighting, Karama Sayadi for video design, and Jalila Madani for costumes. Mohamed Hédi Belkhir oversees technical direction.

"Testosterone," first staged at the El Hamra Theater in November 2025, is the third Tunisian production featured in this anniversary edition of the Hammamet festival. It follows "Les Fugueuses" by Wafa Taboubi and "Jacaranda" by Nizar Saïdi. The festival will also present "Le Jardin des amants" by Moez Achouri on August 12, 2026. The festival is also set to host Lebanese music icon Adam on August 11, 2026.