What does the Arabic language do to theatre?

Since 1985, the Saisons of the Institut français have fostered dialogue between France and more than one hundred countries, in service of cultural diplomacy. Opening in Marseille in May 2026, the Saison Méditerranée will celebrate the richness and diversity of Mediterranean cultures, promoting creation, innovation, and cooperation between civil societies across all shores. The Season will take place primarily in France from May to October 2026, with several key moments abroad.

On the occasion of Arabic being the guest language of the Festival d’Avignon 2025, Julie Kretzschmar, General Commissioner of the Saison Méditerranée, proposes a conversation with Bashar Murkus, an exchange around the Arabic language and theatre, moderated by Pauline Donizeau.

Co-founder of the Khashabi Theatre in Haifa, Bashar Murkus and Khulood Basel present a bold and committed theatre. Khashabi Theatre is an independent venue working toward a society that defends creation as an inalienable right, and sees its independence as essential to its cultural identity. This collective organization sheds light on social, political, and artistic taboos and provides a space for artistic support and shared resources, vital for creative freedom.

With Bashar Murkus director of YES DADDY

Hosted by Pauline Donizeau associate professor in Theatre Studies at the University of Lyon

In partnership with Saison Méditerranée 2026