Lassaâd Mehouachi
An eminent figure in the art of puppetry in Tunisia and the Arab world, puppeteer artist Lassaâd Mehouachi, who passed away on September 8, 2023, began his artistic career in 1986. In 1993, he joined the newly established “National Center for Puppetry Arts.”
As a director of significant theatrical works for children and the designer of a substantial collection of puppets, he contributed to the development of puppetry in Tunisia, nurturing a new generation of artists. His portfolio boasts numerous successful theater productions such as ‘I am Cinderella’, ‘The Costume’, and ‘The Dinosaurs’. His creations garnered awards at various national and international events, notably in Malaysia and Egypt.
His latest contribution was in “Blackout,” a theater production for adults, produced by the National Center for Puppetry Arts and directed by Mounir Argui.
Rim Hamrouni
“Hostages”, “Fleurs de Sel”, “Monstranum’s”, “The Raft”, “Pieces of women”… These aren’t merely theater works that marked the life of the multifaceted late actress Rim Hamrouni, but roles played as a part of her engaged, impassioned soul, inhabited by the words and woes of an unjust world. With her smile and biting humor, this professionally trained actress from the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Tunis began her career alongside the late Ezzeddine Gannoun, leaving an indelible mark on a wide audience with her radiant presence. Whether on television, in films, on stage, or as a columnist, the late Rim Hamrouni touched people’s hearts through her frankness, zest for life, and authenticity. Departing too soon like a shooting star, her roles, blending humor and depth, will remain eternal.
Abdelghani Ben Tara
Tunisia
Abdelghani Ben Tara honed his talent in school theater. He studied this art both in Tunisia and France, contributing to the enrichment of the national artistic scene with twenty-five theatrical works.
During his time in Saudi Arabia, he directed around thirty plays.
As an actor, director, playwright, and set designer, Abdelghani Ben Tara has accumulated experiences and collaborations. He played a role in the establishment of the Tunisian National Theater and the creation of several theater companies. He has also served as a member of the jury at numerous festivals.
Mohamed Kaddous
Commonly known among his close circles as “Hamdoun,” the late Mohamed Kaddous (1942-2023) completed his primary education in his hometown of Kélibia. Subsequently, he pursued studies at the Zaytouna Mosque and later enrolled in the theatre school, graduating as a theatrical education teacher.
He worked as a theatrical education teacher in Jendouba, Kairouan, and Nabeul. Later, he joined the theatre department at the Secretary of State for Information and Guidance as well as the Adult Education Office. From 1970, he returned to the Ministry of Culture, specifically in the theatre department, retiring in early 2002.
Mohamed wrote, translated, and adapted numerous theatrical works. He held positions directing personnel at the Tunisian National Theatre and as Secretary-General at the Carthage Theater Festival. He was one of the founders of the Qorba Amateur Theatre Festival and served for many years on theatre leadership committees, focusing on guidance, professional card allocation, and theatrical direction.
Moncef Charfeddine
A prominent figure in Tunisian culture, Moncef Charfeddine (1928-2022) led the Modern Theatre Association of Sousse but also adapted and staged numerous texts. From October 1964 to 1967, he headed the theatre department of the Tunisian Ministry of Culture. Additionally, Moncef directed the Maghreb Theatre Festival and served as the deputy director of the National Cultural Committee.
As a prolific writer, he published numerous articles and created various cultural programs for radio and television. His notable books include “Two Centuries of Theatre in Tunisia,” initially published in French and later in Arabic, “Khalifa Stambouli: His Life and Works” and “The History of Tunisian Theatre from its Inception to the End of the World War”.