Feb 7 β€’ 10:55 UTC πŸ‡ΆπŸ‡¦ Qatar Al Jazeera

The Head of the Syrian National Drama Committee: The Role of Drama is to Open Difficult Questions, Not to Provide an Artificial Reconciliation Discourse

The head of the Syrian National Drama Committee discusses the evolving role of Syrian drama amidst the challenges of war and the need for deeper narratives.

The Head of the Syrian National Drama Committee emphasized that the primary role of drama is to address difficult questions rather than to present a contrived reconciliation narrative. Over the decades, Syrian drama has undergone significant transformations, particularly during the Syrian civil war from 2012 to 2024. This period forced the industry to adapt to unique circumstances, affecting both its structure and the themes of its productions.

The socio-political and economic upheaval accompanying the war has had a discernible impact on television productions in Syria, with a notable decline in both quantity and quality. This downturn has hindered their ability to connect with Arab audiences. Moreover, many recent programs have been criticized for their repetitive and superficial themes, often leaning towards propaganda that supports the previous regime rather than offering substantive content that reflects the complex realities of the Syrian experience.

Additionally, the industry faced a migration crisis, losing essential talents such as directors, writers, actors, and technicians who were pivotal for creating content that resonated with viewers. These individuals had previously provided numerous job opportunities and contributed to the region's cultural landscape. As Ramadan approaches, the industry tries to navigate these challenges, seeking to redefine itself in light of these ongoing struggles and transformations.

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