National Theater Festival Tétouan – Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid

Tétouan: Official Opening of the National Theatre Festival

The 25th edition of the National Theatre Festival officially opened on Friday evening at the Spanish Cinema Theatre in Tétouan, under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This major event, organized by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication (Cultural Department) in partnership with the Tétouan province, was inaugurated during a ceremony filled with emotion, honoring several iconic figures of Moroccan theatre, introducing the jury, and announcing the competing works.

A Festival Celebrating the Excellence of Moroccan Theatre

In his speech, Minister Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid described this edition as “exceptional,” noting that it takes place within a significant national context, between the celebration of the Unity Day and the 50th anniversary of the Green March. He emphasized that theatre serves as a privileged witness to the economic, social, and cultural development of the Kingdom.

The minister highlighted the dynamic spearheaded by HM King Mohammed VI as part of the extensive modernization efforts underway in the country, which today enables Morocco to consolidate its regional and international influence.

He also asserted that this festival represents much more than a mere artistic gathering: it is a celebration of the Moroccan theatrical renaissance, driven by a new generation of artists with a strong aesthetic consciousness and an innovative vision.

Ministry’s Commitment to Support Creation and Modernize Infrastructure

Mr. Bensaid reiterated his department’s commitment to support research, creativity, and professionalization of the industry through:

• the modernization of theatres and performance spaces,
• supporting cultural transformations,
• opening new spaces for young talent,
• establishing a new support system based on a charter and a participatory approach.

According to him, this new dynamic aims to build a genuine cultural industry capable of meeting current challenges, supporting professional theatre production, and enhancing the appeal of the national cultural landscape.

A Festival Focused on Youth and Creativity

Mr. Bensaid emphasized that the ministry is working to strengthen support for theatre professionals while creating new opportunities for Moroccan youth. He stated that theatre represents one of the pillars of a culturally strong society, fostering dialogue between generations and highlighting the social diversity of Morocco.

A Rich, Diverse Program Open to the Public

The festival director, Yassine Ahjam, praised the rich programming that combines performances, workshops, intellectual meetings, and exhibitions. The audience will particularly enjoy the “Creative Maqamat” section, dedicated to poetry, visual arts, and music.

Twelve plays have been selected for the official competition, vying for:

• the National Theatre Award,
• writing and directing awards,
• scenography,
• costume design,
• best male and female performances,
• the Hope Prize,
• and the Grand Prize of the festival.

The competing plays include titles such as: “Tkharchich” (Fès), “Adanas” (Khouribga), “Mouwatine Iqtisadi” (Tétouan), “Al Harraz” (Rabat), “Rihla” (Sala Al Jadida), among others.

An Open, Inclusive, and Committed Edition

In addition to the competitive performances, the festival offers:

• non-competitive performances,
• plays aimed at children,
• as well as performances for inmates of the local Tétouan prison, enhancing the social and inclusive dimension of the event.

This 25th edition will run until November 21, confirming Tétouan as a true cultural platform serving Moroccan theatre.