Ithra Programs
Ithra launches ‘Theater in Schools’ program to boost knowledge of the performing arts
Training courses will reach 40 teachers from various schools across the Eastern Province.
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) recently launched its first edition of the Theater in Schools program.
The program, conducted in cooperation with the Eastern Province Education Department, strives to promote interest in the theatrical arts by designing accessible, innovative, and enjoyable four-week training courses. It also strives to ignite passion for learning and innovation.
Focusing on development, creativity, and inspiration for the future, the courses are designed to help Saudi society become familiar with specialized theater learning spaces.
40 middle school teachers
The Theater in Schools program offers online training courses to 20 male teachers and 20 female teachers from various schools in the Kingdom, and includes virtual and practical training at Ithra in collaboration with the National Institute of Dramatic Art and Sharjah Performing Arts Academy from the UAE.
These courses provide Saudi teachers with knowledge and experience in arts and theater techniques, enabling them to transfer that knowledge to their students. It also strives to support 800 middle school teachers in the future to incorporate drama and theater in the public education system.
After the end of the training program, teachers will train students for 10 weeks to create school productions. A competition will be held at the national level to evaluate the theatrical programs produced by the students.
Discussions and workshops
The program included panel discussions and specialized workshops that gather people interested in the theatrical arts to share their ideas, experiences, interests, and aspirations.
Among the workshops offered were:
- Introduction to Acting
- Audio Performance and Production
- Introduction to Movement and Physical Performance
Meanwhile, several other programs were offered to help develop artistic talent and provide a creative and innovative space to enjoy performing theatrical arts. This aligns with the aspiration to enrich the community through performing arts.