Organization:

Aftaab Theatre

The Afghan offshoot of the French Theatre du Soleil

This extremely dynamic young theatre group was created as the result of a workshop of the Theatre du Soleil in Kabul. They represent a cross-selection of the finest spirit Afghan youth has to offer. Having struggled against terrible odds to stay alive in their first years (in a culture hostile to theatre and to the independence of young people to pursue artistic careers) they are now poised to become the leading (but not only) force in the regeneration of Afghan theatre.

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Montaigus and Capulets.jpg - The Aftaab actors dressed for their first play, Romeo and Juliet Robert Kluijver

Le Théâtre du Soleil, led by world-renowned French director Ariane Mnouchkine, visited Kabul in summer 2005 to conduct a theater workshop culminating in an original production with Afghan actors and technicians. The innovative three-week workshop was conceived by the Kabul-based Foundation for Culture and Civil Society, and supported by the Open Society Institute and the Prince Claus Fund

Facts:

1. Aftaab Theatre has never been financially aided by any governmental or non-governmental organization.

2. Aftaab Theatre is one of the most active organizations in Afghanistan, but they are still not recognized by the government.

3. Aftaab Theatre's members are all Afghans.

4. Aftaab Theatre's performances are financially aided by the French Cultural Centre (CCF).

Source: taken from the Aftaab Theatre website

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Ariane Mnouchkine directing workshop.jpg - Picture taken by Robert Kluijver at the FCCS, summer 2005 Robert Kluijver

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Juliet.jpg - The beautiful young actress Mariam had to confront her family to pursue a career in acting. Robert Kluijver

Contact information

  • Aftaab Theatre
  • French Cultural Centre (CCF)
  • Kabul
  • AF