RIYADH, Saudi Arabia: Riyadh is currently abuzz with the vibrant Imru’ Al-Qais Festival, a cultural extravaganza launched by the Ministry of Culture, which takes center stage as part of Arab Poetry Year 2023.
This immersive event, running until October 12, invites visitors and enthusiasts to delve deep into the life and legacy of the renowned poet Imru’ Al-Qais.
The festival offers an eclectic blend of cultural activities and events, all aimed at paying homage to the poet and his timeless work. At the heart of the festival, the Poet’s Theater comes alive with nightly recitals of Imru’ Al-Qais’s poetry, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the lyrical beauty of his verses.
Beyond the poetry recitals, the festival promises an array of captivating experiences. Enthusiasts of the arts can look forward to theatrical performances and soul-stirring musical presentations that pay tribute to Imru’ Al-Qais’s profound influence on Arab literature and culture.
Art aficionados will find themselves drawn to the Arabic calligraphers’ corner, where the written word becomes a work of art, and a vibrant handicrafts market showcasing the region’s craftsmanship.
For those who wish to explore their own poetic talents, workshops are available throughout the week, offering guidance on the art of reciting and writing poetry. These workshops provide a unique opportunity to connect with the rich tradition of Arabic poetry and learn from experienced practitioners.
One of the highlights of the festival is the event titled “The Poet in the Eyes of Artists.” This platform invites painters to display their portraits of Imru’ Al-Qais alongside their visual interpretations of his literary masterpieces, creating a fascinating fusion of art and poetry.
Families and children are not forgotten at the Imru’ Al-Qais Festival. A sand corner awaits young ones, where they can engage in traditional Najdi games, fostering a connection to the region’s heritage. A dedicated storytelling corner sparks imagination and invites young minds into the world of storytelling, while a mural provides a canvas for children to express their creativity by drawing their own portraits of the ancient poet.
The Imru’ Al-Qais Festival serves as a vibrant celebration of Arab poetry, culture, and artistic expression, honoring a poet whose timeless verses continue to resonate with audiences across generations. It’s an event where the past and the present converge, fostering a deep appreciation for the rich literary heritage of the Arab world while nurturing creativity and artistic exploration in all who attend.
