Concerns Surrounding the Inclusion of Marrakech in World Theatre Day Events
The artistic community in Morocco is gearing up for the global celebration of World Theatre Day, scheduled for March 27, 2026, with a blend of anticipation and criticism. The Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication has announced a nationwide schedule of festivities that features 102 theatrical performances across 40 Moroccan cities. However, a significant concern has been raised by the Administrative Bureau of the National Coalition Forum for Professional Theatre Companies regarding the "troubling void" that has emerged in relation to the city of Marrakech within this official program.
Controversy Over Cultural Representation
A particularly contentious point arises from the selection of Chichaoua—part of the Marrakech-Safi region—as the main hub for this year's official celebrations, while the theatrical companies based in Marrakech have been completely sidelined from performing. Observers of the cultural scene have interpreted this exclusion as a violation of the principle of cultural justice and a marginalization of regional representation, which should ideally serve as a foundation for contemporary public policies.
In light of this "dramatic" situation, the Forum questions the genuine criteria used to select participating companies and whether there exists a set of guidelines ensuring transparency and geographical equity. They express discontent over the disregard for Marrakech's rich historical legacy, a city that has been and continues to be a vibrant laboratory for the evolution of Moroccan theatre and a nurturing ground for many renowned artists who have achieved international acclaim.
Theatre enthusiasts are perplexed by the decision to import foreign performances for presentation in the heart of the region, while local talents in Marrakech are denied the opportunity to showcase their work. This effectively deprives Marrakech's creators of their natural right to engage with their audience and celebrate their day on home soil.
In response to this situation, there are growing calls for a radical and urgent review of cultural programming mechanisms, alongside a commitment to complete transparency in the management of theatrical affairs at both the national and regional levels. It is imperative to restore recognition for the contributions of Marrakech artists to the enrichment of the national theatrical treasury, for theatre by its nature does not tolerate "isolation," and its humanitarian message cannot be fulfilled under policies that lack a spirit of equity and spatial inclusivity.
As reported by ardbladi.com.
