As live theatre slowly starts to make a comeback across various Cairo stages, the few plays that have been staged so far seem to coincidentally revolve around themes of mental illness. Although this may be the result of mere coincidence, one can’t help but feel as though now is in fact the perfect time to shine a spotlight on issues of mental illness and raise awareness around mental health. With everything that has been happening in recent months following the covid-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdown, many have had to grapple with all sorts of issues of mental well-being; so much so, that more and more people are now realizing the importance of taking care of one’s mental health. The wonderful aspects of these plays is that they showcase the fact that these are issues that have always been a part of society; issues that are real and must be given a platform. What is perhaps most interesting about the two one act plays that were staged at the legendary Jesuit Theatre, is the fact that they are both older plays written by renowned Egyptian playwright Alfred Farag. Both El…
Exploring Questions of Mental Illness and Gender Through Alfred Farag’s Plays: Review
November 8, 2020
