2010 Programs and Events

Gaza Theater Group Presents American Classic Steinbeck’s “The Pearl”

“Basma” (Smile), a Gazan cultural arts organization, held its first performance of John Steinbeck’s classic story “The Pearl” on May 12 in Gaza. With a $20,000 grant from the Consulate General’s Public Affairs office, Basma translated Steinbeck’s work into classical Arabic and hired actors and a director to stage the play. Approximately 200 people attended the initial performance including intellectuals, artists, and civil society leaders. The play was warmly received by the audience, many of whom noted that it was the first time they had viewed an on-stage production of western literature. The play was followed by a discussion and dialogue to obtain feedback for fine-tuning future performances. There will be five more performances of the play Sunday, May 16 through Thursday, May 20.

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