Muscat: The active presence of theatrical performances within the 'Muscat Nights 2026' festivities represents one of the most significant entertainment and cultural pillars offered to the public. These performances provide an ideal space for Omani theater practitioners to exchange expertise, appropriately activate the performing arts, and highlight vibrant youth talent, reflecting the cultural and artistic movement currently witnessed in the Sultanate of Oman.
According to Oman News Agency, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth has reinforced the role of Omani theater troupes as creative platforms that contribute to spreading cultural awareness and serve as an entertainment element that enhances interaction between the public and artists across various creative spectrums.
Sarah Mohammed Al Ajmi, Head of the Performing Arts Department at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, stated that Omani theater is one of the most prominent features of the cultural scene in the Sultanate of Oman. She noted that its presence in this year's "Muscat Nights 2026" serves as an artistic space expressing cultural identity and keeping pace with the local creative movement.
She added that the inclusion of theatrical performances in the event's general program reaffirms the role of theater in enhancing cultural awareness and making performing arts accessible to various segments of society. She further clarified that the presence of Omani theater is part of a purposeful cultural vision to highlight national creative energies, serving as an interactive platform that combines entertainment with knowledge.
Regarding the selection of participating shows and troupes, Al Ajmi explained that the process was based on specific technical and organizational criteria. These included the quality of the script and performance, the suitability of the shows for the audience, and their ability to provide a rich theatrical experience consistent with the atmosphere of 'Muscat Nights 2026,' while ensuring the representation of various Omani theatrical experiences.
She detailed that the performances varied between children's theater, comedy, and shows by troupes for people with disabilities, which included two performances: one by the 'Creativity through Disability' theater and another by the Oman Deaf Theater troupe.
On another note, Jassim Mubarak Al Battashi, Head of the Muscat Folk Theater Troupe, pointed out that the theater is a competitor to other forms of recreation and cannot be separated from entertainment tools. He described it as one of the most important cultural and artistic entertainment instruments, noting that many countries around the world rely on theater to deliver social messages with added value to their people.
Al Battashi emphasized that Omani theater groups must demonstrate a continuous desire for work to move forward. He noted that Omani theater needs more presence and sustainability, stressing the need for continuous production throughout the year rather than limiting its role to domestic and international competitions. He added that many countries rely on theater as a significant source of national income and a means to promote national identity by utilizing it as a primary tourism tool.
In a related context, Yousef Mohammed Al Balushi, Head of the Mazoon Folk Theater Troupe, stated that the participation of Omani theater in general, and folk troupes in particular, in national events is a vital opportunity and a major cultural-artistic milestone in the Sultanate of Oman. He expressed his hope for the continued and expanded participation of theater in such events to further develop youth artistic creativity.
Regarding his experience at 'Muscat Nights 2026,' Al Balushi explained that it is a unique experience due to the direct communication between the stage and the audience. He highlighted the availability of all necessary requirements, including lighting, acoustics, and a fully integrated stage, which allows for a better understanding of the diverse audience and the ability to improvise when facing sudden challenges, such as weather conditions or technical obstacles.
Concluding his remarks, he touched upon the positive audience interaction with the comedy play presented by his troupe, describing it as a comedic presentation carrying ideas that resonated with the audience.