Saudi: Qemam International Festival for Mountain Performance Arts launched in Asir
The Saudi Theatre and Performing Arts Commission kicked off on Friday the second edition of Qemam International Festival for Mountain Performance Arts in seven sites across Asir region. The festival, which is organized by the commission, will continue until Jan 27.
The festival includes a significant lively carnival parade at Art Street in Abha, which showcases the costumes, folk performances, and songs on floats beautifully decorated with the colours of the participating countries.
This edition of the festival is witnessing the participation of 16 Saudi folk bands besides 14 international folk bands, in which they will present 32 local and international mountain performing arts.
On this occasion, the CEO of Theatre and Performing Arts Commission Sultan Al-Bazie confirmed that “Qemam” is the first global festival dedicated to mountain performing arts, that also promotes and introduces the heritage and archaeological sites in Asir.
The sites are Basta Al-Qabil, Abu Shahra Palace in Al-Masqi, Shamsan Castle, Bin Adwan Heritage Village, Malik Historical Palace, Al-Mushait Palaces, and the Castles of Abu Nuqata Al-Mutahmi.
The festival visitors will be introduced to young talents through a variety of musical and art performing shows with the participation of folk bands. It includes cultural activities that are not usually found in modern cities, such as the storytellers, village weddings and celebration rituals and the special traditional food.
Qemam Festival seeks to highlight the rich folklore and heritage of the Kingdom, as well as contribute to the development of the theatre and performing arts sector and celebrates it in a distinctive festive atmosphere.
Al-Bazie further said that this festival builds on the success achieved by the first edition. It raises the level of awareness of the local and international arts and ancient heritage. It is an opportunity for visitors to explore the history, arts, styles, and performances of these arts.
In cooperation with Abha Literary Club, Qemam Festival will present an inspiring cultural program through seminars, and workshops about folk performing arts with the participation of Saudi and international experts.
Each festival site will host a group of events in allocated areas, such as the exhibition of costumes and theatre, village folk activities, platforms for live music, children’s area, craftsmen shops, and a variety of stores selling different goods, gifts, fashionable clothing, and souvenirs.
There will be live cooking shows with the participation of well-known local chefs, including an area for local cuisines and small family businesses.
During the festival, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in mountain sports such as hiking, mountain biking, and camping, which will be arranged with local tourism companies.
