Baghdad – INA – Fatima Rahma
The Jordanian artist,director of the Al-Shams Theater in Amman,Hayat jaber,revealed her role in the play (Rising the Mountain) within the activities of the Baghdad International Theater Festival.
Jaber told the (INA), that she is “participating in the play (Rising the Mountain) directed by Abdel Salam Qubailat, which is a musical theatrical performance produced by Al-Shams Theater after the events of October 7, and which continued for an entire year.”
She added, “She plays the main role in the work, which is a mondrama accompanied by a musician and live singing on stage, documenting a real incident in the Deir Yassin massacre that occurred in Palestine, which was the beginning of the Zionist entity’s infiltration of the Palestinian territories,” indicating that “the text was written by the Jordanian writer Kafa Al-Zoubi in the language.” It was translated into Russian and translated into Arabic. This story was excerpted and represented in theater, between narration and the character’s experience.”
She continued: “Her role in the play is Soraya, who is the narrator of the story, and then she moves between coexistence, so that the narrator becomes the cohabitant of this character (Soraya), who is searching for her husband who was missing in the war and wants to make sure that he was buried properly so that she can continue her journey to the mountain, and during the trip she recalls their days before the war from “Life and love.”
She pointed out that “this is her first visit to Baghdad of civilization,beauty and culture,and this festival came at this time in which the region is experiencing difficult events. The artist must be on stage.”
What are the main themes explored in “Rising the Mountain” directed by Hayat Jaber?
Interview with Hayat Jaber: Exploring Themes of Resilience in “Rising the Mountain” at Baghdad International Theater Festival
Editor, Time.news: Welcome, Hayat Jaber. It’s a pleasure to have you here with us during the baghdad International Theater Festival. You are directing a powerful piece, “Rising the Mountain.” Can you share what inspired you to tell this story?
Hayat Jaber: Thank you for having me! The inspiration for “Rising the mountain” sprang from a deep need to address historical and ongoing injustices, particularly surrounding the Deir Yassin massacre in Palestine. This incident was a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of the Israeli presence in Palestinian territories. Through theater, we can document these painful experiences and give voice to those who suffered.
Editor: It sounds like a deeply moving performance. you play the lead role of Soraya, a character who narrates her husband’s story amidst this backdrop. Can you describe her journey in the play?
hayat Jaber: Soraya is a complex character; she embodies both the pain of loss and the hope for reconciliation. As she searches for her missing husband, her journey becomes a quest for closure. She reverently recalls their life before the war, exploring themes of love and coexistence. As the narrator, I transition into her experiences, allowing the audience to engage intimately with her struggle and resilience.
Editor: The play is described as a “mondrama” featuring live music and singing. How do these elements enhance the storytelling?
Hayat Jaber: The integration of live music adds an emotional depth that enhances the narrative. the musical elements help to bridge the gap between the audience and the characters’ experiences. It creates a sensory experience where the audience can feel the weight of the story through both sound and performance. The live component fosters a connection, making the historical context resonate in a contemporary setting.
Editor: You mentioned that the text was written by Jordanian writer Kafa Al-Zoubi, who translated the narrative into both Russian and Arabic.What role does language play in this production, especially considering the diverse cultural backgrounds of the festival attendees?
Hayat Jaber: Language is vital in this production. It reflects the shared history and experiences across diffrent cultures, effectively reaching a broader audience. By translating the text into Russian and arabic, we ensure that the play remains accessible and relatable to those from varied backgrounds. This cross-linguistic bridge allows for a richer understanding of the themes of the play.
Editor: This is your first visit to Baghdad. How has this opportunity shaped your outlook on the role of art in social change, especially in a region facing challenges?
Hayat jaber: Visiting Baghdad, a city rich in civilization and culture, has truly been transformative. The festival serves as a reminder that art is a powerful medium for change, particularly in regions experiencing turmoil. The stories we tell can foster dialogue, empathy, and solidarity. For artists, being on stage amidst such challenges is not just a privilege, but a responsibility. We must highlight the struggles and resilience of our people through our art.
Editor: As we wrap up, what advice would you give to fellow artists confronting similar themes within their work?
Hayat Jaber: My advice is to stay true to your voice and harness your experiences. Use your art as a tool for reflection,healing,and education. Engage with your community to understand their stories, as these narratives are frequently enough the most powerful. Remember that art can transcend boundaries; it can spark conversations that lead to social change.
Editor: Thank you,Hayat,for sharing your insights and experiences. “Rising the Mountain” promises to be an impactful piece, and we look forward to seeing how it resonates with audiences.
Hayat Jaber: Thank you for having me. I hope everyone who experiences the performance finds connection and understanding within it.