Sharjah Art Foundation has announced the return of its popular programme, Perform Sharjah, for its second season. The event invites the community to explore the heritage houses and art spaces of the city while experiencing a diverse range of performances. Curated by Director of Performance and Senior Curator Tarek Abou El Fetouh, this year’s line-up includes artists from various artistic disciplines.

Unlike the previous season, which showcased performances in streets and squares, the second edition of Perform Sharjah will engage with and reflect on the extensive urban development project that has taken place in the city over the past 30 years. The project aimed to restore and rebuild the historical area of Sharjah with a focus on art and culture. Many heritage buildings were repurposed as meeting places for intellectuals, artists, and other creative individuals.

The second season of Perform Sharjah will take audiences on an artistic journey across the city, beginning and ending in its historical center. The programme will feature performances that explore transmitted heritage and modern archives, examining their role in contemporary society. Artists will tackle issues of identity, culture, epistemology, and alternative histories.

The performances scheduled for the second season of Perform Sharjah include:
– “Metamorphosis #2” by Essia Jaïbi and Jalila Baccar
– “The Return” by Rayyane Tabet
– “Hunkaro” by Mohit Takalkar
– “Singing Youth” by Judit Böröcz, Bence György Pálinkás, and Máté Szigeti
– “4” by Tao Ye
– “Perhaps All the Dragons” by Berlin
– “Libya” by Radouan Mriziga
– “Perhaps Here” by various artists

Each performance offers a unique experience, ranging from intimate monologues to abstract choreography. The programme will run from October 19, 2023, to February 11, 2024, with performances held at various locations in Sharjah.

In addition to the performances, Perform Sharjah will also offer a masterclass conducted by Jalila Baccar. The masterclass will be open to professional actors from the UAE and the wider Gulf region, providing them with an opportunity to learn from Baccar’s extensive experience in the field.

Audiences can expect an immersive and thought-provoking experience as they engage with the rich artistic and cultural offerings of Perform Sharjah’s second season. With its diverse range of performances, the programme aims to stimulate dialogue and exploration of various themes and ideas.