Kuwait opens cultural festivities with majestic theatrical show

• His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him, places great importance on culture and media, recognizing their vital role in building society, strengthening national identity, and fostering openness and development,” said Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs.

• Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi said, “Kuwait’s cultural vision has positioned it as a leader in fostering creativity and shaping Arab awareness,” and emphasized the country’s role as a beacon for intellectual growth, nurturing creators, and solidifying its status as a hub for cultural and creative development.

• The opening ceremony of the event included the honoring of the 30th Al-Qurain Cultural Festival’s featured figure, Saudi thinker Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghami, along with the recognition of the winners of the State Appreciation and Encouragement Awards.

Under the high patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, and President of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature, inaugurated the “Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media” festivities on Thursday evening.

The event opened with the grand national historical performance Earth Ocean at the National Theater in the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center—an awe-inspiring spectacle that seamlessly blended heritage, innovation, and vision, illuminating Kuwait’s rich past, dynamic present, and promising future.

The opening ceremony also included the honoring of the 30th Al-Qurain Cultural Festival’s featured figure, Saudi thinker Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghami, along with the recognition of the winners of the State Appreciation and Encouragement Awards.

Additionally, the ceremony featured the presentation of the Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media shield by Mohammed Ould Amar, the Director General of ALECSO, to Minister of Information Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi.

The event was attended by a distinguished gathering of guests from Kuwait and the Arab world, including ministers of information, culture, and tourism, as well as prominent intellectuals, writers, artists, and media professionals. Representatives of cultural, artistic, and media organizations, along with members of the diplomatic corps, were also present.

Vital role in building society

In his opening speech, Minister of Information and Culture Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi stated that “I am pleased and honored to be among you today, representing His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-JaberAl-Sabah, may God protect him, who places great importance on culture and media, recognizing their vital role in building society, strengthening national identity, and fostering openness and development.”

He added: “Today, we celebrate the conclusion of the 30th session of the Al-Qurain Cultural Festival, a prestigious event that has become a key platform for creativity and a shining beacon in the Arab cultural scene. Kuwait has always been a hub for thought and culture, championing creators and thinkers.”

He also noted that this event coincides with the launch of Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025, emphasizing Kuwait’s leadership in arts, culture, and media, and reaffirming its commitment to supporting and promoting Arab culture globally.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to both the Arab Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization and the Council of Arab Ministers of Information for selecting Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025 and for their unwavering support of culture and media in all their forms,” he said.

Al-Mutairi reaffirmed Kuwait’s dedication to enriching cultural and media movements, enhancing intellectual production, disseminating knowledge, and fostering a climate conducive to creativity.

He continued, stating, “Since its independence, Kuwait has embraced a comprehensive cultural vision that has positioned it at the forefront of nations supporting thought and creativity. Through numerous initiatives, Kuwait has shaped the awareness of Arab generations and strengthened cultural identity. Thanks to its continuous efforts, Kuwait has become a beacon of thought, nurturing creators and providing them with a fertile environment for cultural and intellectual production, solidifying its status as a leading Arab cultural center.”

Al-Mutairi added, “Kuwait has demonstrated that culture drives development and progress. Investing in culture is an investment in people and the future, ensuring intellectual renaissance and civilizational prosperity.”

He further emphasized, “At the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting thought and creativity, fostering cultural exchange through art exhibitions, seminars, performances, and heritage activities. These initiatives showcase our history while promoting openness to other cultures, reinforcing Kuwait as a platform for dialogue and creative expression.”

He noted that the fusion of heritage and modernity produces creativity in its most spectacular form. This is exemplified by the grand theatrical production The Earth Ocean, which marks the launch of Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025.

“This performance is a fully integrated artistic experience that reflects Kuwait’s cultural identity and reaffirms its distinguished position in the Arab cultural scene, where arts and modern technology merge to present a dynamic and immersive creative vision,” he concluded.

He continued, “Just as Kuwait has always been a beacon of dialogue and openness, it continues its cultural journey, reaffirming its commitment to the arts as a means of expression and development. Kuwait carries the banner of creativity toward new horizons, believing in culture’s role in building bridges between nations, promoting peace, and strengthening shared human identity—contributing to intellectual enrichment and driving cultural progress into the future.”

Al-Mutairi concluded, “Today, we celebrate the recognition of this year’s Al-Qurain Cultural Festival honoree, literary critic Dr. Abdullah Mohammed Al-Ghami, for his invaluable contributions to literary criticism and contemporary thought. We also honor the winners of the State Appreciation and Encouragement Awards, who have dedicated their lives to the service of knowledge and creativity.”

“It Is Kuwait, the Land of Pure Hearts”

The opening show began with the song “It Is Kuwait, the Land of Pure Hearts,” followed by a performance of “Kuwait Pulse” by the renowned artist Nabil Sha’ail, accompanied by a group of singers and performers. This energetic presentation, featuring lyrics by Saher and melodies composed by Abdullah Al-Qaoud, ignited the atmosphere from the very start.

“Ocean of the Earth”

Meanwhile, the theatrical performance “Ocean of the Earth” brought historical events to life in an innovative fantasy drama, envisioned, scripted, and directed by Abdullah Abdul Rasul.

The play highlighted key moments from the life of the late Kuwaiti astronomer Dr. Saleh Al-Ajiri, blending historical storytelling with a contemporary artistic vision. The production showcased a fusion of theater, music, and technical effects, seamlessly weaving together different time periods while preserving the essence of each era.

Six theatrical and musical segments

The performance featured six theatrical and musical segments: “Al-Ajiri and the Stars” – This segment included a musical piece titled “This Existence,” performed by artist Mohammed Al-Hammadi alongside a choir.

“Al-Ajiri Inspired by Al-Khwarizmi” – This scene featured two musical compositions: “House of Wisdom,” performed by the choir, and “Astronomical Accounts,” sung by Mohammed Al-Hammadi.

“The Sky of Kuwait: The Adornment of the Observers”

“The Sky of Kuwait: The Adornment of the Observers” – This act included two musical pieces: “The Men of the Desert,” performed by Dr. Hamad Al-Mana’a with a group of artists, and “Shina Al-Khair,” presented by an ensemble of performers.

“Kuwait: Pendant of Jewels” – This scene featured four musical performances: “The Art of Omani Condolences,” sung by Mundher Al-Haidi, followed by “The People of Oman,” “Mombasa and Lamu,” and “Marseille,” all performed by the ensemble.

“Kuwait: The Path of Leadership and Light Through History” – This act included three lyrical performances: “The Drama of the Epidemic – From the Heritage,” performed by Abdulaziz Al-Masbah; “With Knowledge, We Achieve Our Aspirations,” sung by the ensemble; and “Ham Al-Fouad,” a poem performed by Sultan Al-Muftah.

“Kuwait: A Gift from Heaven” – The final scene concluded with a musical piece titled “The Future Gate,” performed by the ensemble.

State Appreciation Awards

The honoring ceremony began with the recognition of Saudi intellectual Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghami as the distinguished figure of the Al-Qurain Cultural Festival.The Minister of Information also honored the recipients of the State Appreciation Awards for 2024.

Dr. Mudi Al-Hamoud received her award for her outstanding contributions to the field of social services.

Veteran artist Khaled Al-Obeid was honored for his pioneering role in Kuwait’s artistic and theatrical movement, while the distinguished artist Sanaa Al-Kharazreceived the award for her contributions to cultural services and the preservation of national heritage.

Incentive Awards

The Minister of Information also presented the State Incentive Awards for 2024, recognizing excellence across various fields: Zahra Jassim won the Fine and Applied Arts Award (Drawing) for her work “Competing with White or Retreating with Lions.”

Hussein Al-Haddad received the award in television acting for his role in the series “Pencil.” Poet Muhammad Shoukah was honored with the Poetry Award for his collection “The Poet Who Inhabits the Mirrors.”

Hamoud Al-Shayji won in the Novel category for his work “Fitna Al-Forgiveness.” Basma Al-Wazzan received the Children’s Literature Award for “Dawood the Artist” and “My Story with Reading.”

Dr. Abbas Al-Haddad was awarded in Linguistic, Literary, and Critical Studies for “The Poet Ali Al-Sabtabi– Complete Poetic Works,“ and Nader Al-Azmi won in the field of Social Sciences, Humanities, History, and Archaeology for his work “Beyond the River.”

“Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025” shield

During the presentation of the “Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025” shield to AbdulrahmanAl-Mutairi, Minister of Information, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, and President of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature, the Director General of ALECSO, Mohammed Ould Omar, expressed his joy, stating: “It is an honor to be in the State of Kuwait, a land of rich culture, diversity, and authentic Arab generosity—a country of knowledge, progress, and prosperity.”

He added, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the leadership, government, and people of Kuwait on the launch of this remarkable cultural initiative. As we celebrate Kuwait as the Arab Capital of Culture for 2025, it offers a unique opportunity to rediscover Kuwait’s heritage while honoring its intellectual contributions and visionaries.”

Poetic verses and captivating melodies

Poet Abdulrahman Al-Awadi composed the lyrics for “Ocean of the Earth,” while composer Meshaal Hussein set them to music, with Dr. Noura Al-Qamlas overseeing general music supervision. Poet Saher also contributed to the lyrics, with composer Abdullah Al-Qaoud providing the melodies for the official ceremony.

The soundtrack was composed by Saud Al-Musfer, accompanied by drama groups, expressive movement performance teams, and students from the Ministry of Education. Ali Kamal managed the artistic operations, while historical research was led by Mohammed Al-Rabah. Choreography was overseen by Karima Badir, with expressive movements directed by Musoma Al-Balushi.

Implementation and design

Assistant Directors Issa Al-Hammar, Hussein Al-Muhna, Faras Al-Aidan, and Hussein Fares oversaw the production, while Hassan Al-Mulla supervised the design and implementation of the scenography for Earth Ocean. Fashion design was handled by Iman Al-Seif, and SundusAl-Bati was responsible for designing and creating the accessories.

Historical accuracy

The Center for Research and Kuwait Studies, along with the Al-Ajairi Scientific Center, ensured the historical accuracy and verification of information for the theatrical production Earth Ocean. The esteemed director Abdullah Abdul Rasul led the dramatic structure and dialogue, with a stellar cast of renowned artists, including Mohammed Al-Mansour, Jassim Al-Nabhan, Abdulrahman Al-Aq, Abdulaziz Al-Muslim, Tariq Al-Ali, Jamal Al-Radhan, Mohammed Al-Ajaimi, and Khaled Amin. Also joining them were Khaled Al-Buriki, Yacoub Abdullah, KhaledAl-Mafidi, Mohammed Safar, Hamad Ashkhkani, Mohammed Al-Dosari, Arij Al-Attar, and Haya.

A youthful version of the esteemed astronomer

The young actor Muhammad Al-Hammadi played a pivotal role in Earth Ocean, portraying a youthful version of the esteemed astronomer Dr. Saleh Al-Ajiri in an engaging and innovative manner. The show also featured rising talents, including Abdulaziz Behbehani, Abdullah Al-Rumayyan, Saud Bushahri, Yasser Al-Amari, Faisal Saad, Badr Al-Balushi, and Abdul Ghaffar Al-Awadi, along with Yacoub Hayat, Asr Al-Dosari, Muhammad Hussein, and Hamad Al-Kandari.

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee for the production was chaired by Dr. Youssef Al-Saai, Assistant Undersecretary for Radio Affairs, with follow-up coordination by Talal Al-Haifi, a committee member. The executive production was managed by Condor International Group under the leadership of Nasser Al-Saadoun.