The Dhukhr Club highlights theatre’s role in strengthening national identity and nurturing talent

The Dhukhr Club – Dubai has concluded a series of sessions exploring the role of theatre in strengthening national identity, empowering talent and enhancing family and community cohesion, as part of activities aligned with the UAE’s Year of the Family initiative.

Organised in collaboration with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the programme, titled “The Role and Importance of Theatre in the Life of the Emirati Family,” highlighted theatre’s contribution to improving quality of life, developing creative skills and reinforcing social values.

One of the key sessions, “Our Theatre: Roots and Future,” was held at the Dhukhr Club’s Al Khawaneej branch and moderated by Emirati poet Al Hanouf Mohammed. The discussion featured artists Adel Ibrahim and Saeed Abdulaziz, alongside director Abdullah Al Muhairi from the Dubai National Theatre.

Speakers traced the evolution of Emirati theatre since the 1970s, examining its role in reflecting social and cultural changes while raising awareness of family and community issues. Discussions also covered the growing role of women in theatre, opportunities to expand children's theatre, and ways to preserve national experiences and cultural memory by drawing on the expertise of senior citizens.

Participants also highlighted the importance of identifying and nurturing emerging talent while leveraging modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance theatrical performance and production, reinforcing theatre’s position as a platform for expressing Emirati identity and values.

The session attracted more than 55 members, many of whom expressed interest in participating in theatrical productions after retirement as a way to rediscover their creative abilities and contribute to cultural and community initiatives.

A second session, “Theatre and National Identity,” took place at the Dhukhr Club in Al Safa Park and featured artist Abdullah Saleh, artist Abdullah bin London and director Aisha Al Qassab. Moderated by Al Hanouf Mohammed, the discussion focused on the role of Emirati theatre in preserving national heritage and strengthening younger generations’ connection to their cultural roots amid rapid global change.

Speakers described theatre as one of the most effective creative platforms for documenting the UAE’s history, traditions and societal values through contemporary artistic expression. They also emphasised the importance of heritage theatre in preserving authentic customs and traditions, safeguarding the country's cultural memory, and supporting young Emirati talent by providing opportunities to participate across all aspects of theatrical production.

The programme concluded with several recommendations, including organising specialised theatre workshops at the Dubai National Theatre for senior citizens, youth, women and children. The proposed initiatives aim to develop theatrical skills, discover emerging national talent and encourage greater participation in cultural and artistic activities.