By Hadil HAMMAMI

At precisely 6 PM, the vibrant heart of Habib Bourguiba Street came alive. People commuting home, leaving work, or simply passing by found themselves drawn to a captivating scene in front of the National Theatre of Tunis. The street was transformed by dazzling lights, immersive soundscapes, and stunning visual effects, all meticulously orchestrated for the grand opening of the 25th edition of Carthage International Theatre Days (JTC).

The red carpet rolled out, actors and actresses graced the venue, and the air buzzed with anticipation. These elements brought an electrifying energy to the iconic street, setting the perfect stage for this highly anticipated event.

After nearly an hour, the beloved actress Sawsen Maalej took to the stage with her characteristic wit and radiant smile, officially welcoming the audience to this milestone edition. Alongside her was Mounir Ergi, the head of the 25th edition, who delivered a heartfelt address emphasizing the festival's steadfast support for just causes, particularly the Palestinian struggle for FREEDOM and DIGNITY. “This edition unfolds amid a global humanitarian crisis, where our Palestinian and Lebanese brothers face relentless oppression and violence from the Zionist entity,” Ergi declared, his words striking a profound chord with the audience.

The opening night featured a stirring performance by Palestinian artist Shadi Zaqtan, whose rendition of “Ya Theeb” mesmerized the crowd. The poignant melody set the tone for a powerful theatrical segment portraying the harrowing experiences of children in Gaza. Coupled with gut-wrenching visuals depicting Israeli aggression, the performance served as a vivid reminder of the ongoing injustices endured by the Palestinian people.

The night continued with a children's theatrical performance, one of the most poignant moments of the ceremony. The performance depicted the brutal reality of life under occupation, illustrating how the children of Palestine are robbed of their innocence and childhood. Through vivid storytelling and powerful imagery, the audience was confronted with the harsh consequences of war, as the performance highlighted the physical and emotional toll that occupation takes on young lives. This emotional portrayal underscored the necessity of preserving the childhoods and futures of those affected by conflict.

A musical pause added another emotional layer to the evening, as Raoudha Abdallah took the stage to sing a tribute to Yasser Jradi, a beloved artist who left us far too soon. The heartfelt song resonated deeply with the audience, keeping his memory alive and reminding everyone of the power of music to heal and unite.

The ceremony also included a special tribute to several prominent theatrical figures. These included Douraid Laham from Syria, as well as notable figures from Tunisia such as Lamine Nahdi, Issa Harrath, Bashir El-Kahwaji, Amel Baccouche, Wajiha Jendoubi, Mokdad Essalhi, and Yahya El-Faidi. This recognition was a fitting acknowledgment of the lifelong contributions these artists have made to the theatrical world, both in Tunisia and internationally.

The festival’s program includes 125 performances from 32 countries across various continents. The official competition showcases 12 plays, while parallel sections present 35 additional productions, offering a rich and diverse selection of theater. The lineup also features 13 performances under the “World Theater” banner, two productions spotlighting “Theatrical Expressions in the Diaspora,” 10 shows dedicated to children, and four productions in the “Integration Theater” category. One of the most powerful aspects of this edition is the “Freedom Theater” initiative, which showcases 11 performances by incarcerated individuals, highlighting how art can bring about personal transformation even in the most restrictive environments.

As the curtains rise on this extraordinary edition, the JTC reaffirms its role as a beacon of artistic innovation and a staunch advocate for human rights. Over the coming days, audiences will not only experience the diversity of global theater but also witness how art can challenge injustice and stand in solidarity with the oppressed. This year, Carthage International Theatre Days is more than just a celebration of storytelling—it's a call for justice and a platform for the voices of those, like the Palestinian people, who continue to fight for their dignity and FREEDOM.