The Carthage Theater Days: An Ode to the Stage and Humanity
For decades, the Carthage Theater Days (JTC) have stood as one of the most prominent cultural events in Tunisia and the broader Arab and African worlds. More than just a festival, it serves as a dynamic crossroads for artistic expression, where dialogues, reflections, and theatrical aesthetics from across the globe converge.
Since their inception in 1983, the JTC have been celebrated for their dedication to meaningful theater grounded in identity. Over the years, this mission has evolved, showcasing universal themes while honoring the richness of Arab and African cultures.
The 25th edition, themed “Theater of All Resistances… The Art of Life,” highlights the idea that theater is far more than a representational art form… it is a profound reflection of the human soul. This year’s performances explore themes such as social struggles, identity crises, and universal aspirations for freedom, justice, and love.
Rooted in collective memory, theater also embraces a forward-looking perspective. This edition includes debates and workshops tackling critical topics, such as the influence of new technologies on the stage and the role of theater in an increasingly fragmented world.
The universality of these artistic and human concerns has attracted a vibrant delegation from around the world. Companies from Africa, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Arab world will share the stage, proving once again that theater transcends borders and language barriers.
The JTC are a beacon of hope, a testament to art’s ability to surmount crises and unite people. They remind us that in a world often divided and uncertain, theater remains a space where voices are amplified, emotions shared, and stories brought to life.
Whether you are a devoted theater enthusiast or simply curious, the JTC invite you to experience the stage as a window to the world and a celebration of humanity in all its diversity.
In line with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs’ commitment to supporting culture and the arts in Tunisia and abroad, and recognizing art’s vital role in fostering ties with friendly nations across all continents, Tunisia proudly celebrates theater with a new edition of the Carthage Theater Days Festival. Each year, this event gathers leading figures in theater, including artists, critics, trainers, and specialists, creating a vibrant space for exchange and collaboration.
Theater, known as the “Father of the Arts,” has long served as a voice for human causes. Since its inception, the Carthage Theater Days Festival (JTC) has been a platform for solidarity, particularly with nations affected by war and displacement. This edition seeks to amplify the voices of the oppressed and those advocating for freedom and dignity across the Arab world.
As the festival marks its 41st anniversary, it remains steadfast in promoting humanistic values for a fairer, freer world. The “Theater of Freedom” section highlights theater’s transformative role as a tool for rehabilitation and reintegration. In a groundbreaking initiative for the Arab world, art created within prison walls will be brought to the stage, offering prisoners a chance to overcome isolation and uncover hidden talents. This initiative reflects a partnership between the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the Ministry of Justice.
I also extend my congratulations to Tunisian theater for its recent accolades at Arab festivals and applaud Carthage Theater Days for joining the Chinese Silk Road network, a step that promises greater international visibility.
From November 23 to 30, 2024, theater enthusiasts are invited to attend the 25th edition of the JTC, featuring a diverse program of Tunisian, Arab, and international theater. The festival will also provide a platform for reflection on theater’s connections with other art forms through seminars and workshops led by national and international experts
Hend Mokrani, General Director of the National Establishment for the Promotion of Festivals and Cultural and Artistic Events
Mohamed Mounir Argui, Director of the 25th Edition of the Carthage Theater Days
The 25th edition of the international “Carthage Theater Days” festival will be held from November 23 to 30, 2024, immersing the Tunisian cultural scene in the vibrancy of theatrical art. This event will offer artists and theater enthusiasts the opportunity to reconnect with the magic of the stage through performances, workshops, conferences, and encounters that promote exchanges between professionals from various regions of the world. As the oldest and most important theater event in the Mediterranean, Arab, and African regions, the festival celebrates its 41st year standing as a testament to the deep roots of theater in Tunisian culture, embodying the ideals of justice, beauty, and human advocacy.
This edition unfolds amid a challenging global context, as our Palestinian and Lebanese brothers are enduring the most brutal forms of oppression from the Zionist entity. The Carthage Theater Days reaffirm their unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, in line with the official and popular support of Tunisia. Thus, this edition will proudly uphold the values of defending just causes, the right to life, and the promotion of enlightened culture against genocide, calling for resistance.
Indeed, Theater has always been, remains and forever will be a form of resistance. It sparks hope in the heart of despair, seeking a broader, more beautiful, and peaceful human horizon, while celebrating diversity and differences. In line with this vision, we have chosen the theme for this edition’s international colloquium: ‘Theater, Genocide, and Resistance: Towards a New Humanist Horizon’.
The JTC program includes, in addition to the official competition, a non-competitive section showcasing works from Africa and the Arab world, with a strong representation of Tunisian theater and an openness to global perspectives. It also features various sections: Theater of Freedom, School Theater, Cultural Club Theater, Youth Theater, and Theater of Inclusion.
The JTC is also expanding its reach to the Americas this year, featuring works from countries such as Venezuela and Brazil. China will be a guest country as well, with the inclusion of ‘Star Returning’, the latest production by director Lemi Ponifasio, which recently premiered in China and is making its world premiere in Tunisia.
The JTC also offers workshops focused on performance, acting, and writing, led by esteemed experts and creators from Tunisia and beyond, aiming to enhance participants’ skills and expertise.
We hope that the Carthage Theater Days will continue to shine, strengthening their unique role as the “mother of theater festivals” throughout the region, Africa, and the Arab world. A status confirmed by the enthusiasm of audiences, reflecting the deep attachment of Tunisians to the art of theater across all generations and social backgrounds. This edition promises an enriching aesthetic and intellectual experience through diverse performances by artists from Tunisia and other friendly nations.
Welcome to Tunisia, land of tolerance, art, and renewed creativity.
Long live theater! The art of resistance… the art of life.
