The Theater Authority successfully concludes the Samer and Dialogue event in Riyadh
The Theater and Performing Arts Authority successfully concluded the Al-Samar and Al-Muhawara event , held in Al-Adl Square in the Qasr Al-Hukm district of Riyadh. This prominent cultural event was jointly organized with the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority, and ran from March 22 to May 15, 2026. The event witnessed a large public turnout and remarkable interaction from visitors with the various traditional performing arts and poems that reflect the depth and authenticity of the heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The historical roots of traditional performing arts
The art of Samer and the art of Al-Muhawara are among the oldest folk arts, deeply intertwined with the history of the Arabian Peninsula for centuries. Samer, which relies on group performance and harmonious vocal rhythms, has been and remains a staple at social events and national celebrations, expressing joy and community cohesion. Al-Muhawara, on the other hand, represents an arena for impromptu poetic duels between poets, depending on quick wit, powerful language, and profound meaning. This event aimed to highlight these historical roots and reintroduce them to new generations in a style that blends tradition and modernity, ensuring the continuity of this rich cultural heritage and its transmission from generation to generation.
Numbers and statistics from the heart of the Samer and Dialogue event
created The Al-Samar and Al-Muhawara event a unique cultural and creative space, blending the magic of poetic expression with the brilliance of group performance. The event featured a distinguished group of artists, including over 60 professional Al-Samar performers and 30 renowned Al-Muhawara poets who captivated the audience with their impromptu verses. In addition, 35 chanters contributed to the enthusiastic and interactive atmosphere of the performances. This integrated artistic spectacle powerfully showcased the presence of traditional Saudi arts, presenting them to the public in a distinctive heritage setting within Al-Adl Square, offering visitors an unforgettable cultural experience.
The cultural and societal impact of the event locally and regionally
The significance of this event transcends its role as mere entertainment; its impact extends to playing a pivotal role in strengthening Saudi national identity. Locally, the event connected young people with their ancestral heritage and provided a vital platform for discovering emerging talents in poetry and performance. Regionally and internationally, showcasing such arts reflects the Kingdom's rich cultural diversity and supports its efforts to export its vibrant culture globally, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on the culture and arts sector. The interactive evenings, which spanned several weeks, offered a golden opportunity for visitors from all walks of life to experience these arts firsthand, further solidifying Riyadh's position as a capital of culture and creativity in the region.
