Al-Ahliyya Amman University Wins Three Awards at Alexandria International Theatre Festival for Its Play “Jaffa and the Blue Door”

In a remarkable artistic and cultural achievement, Al-Ahliyya Amman University secured three prestigious awards at the International Theatre Festival for Specialized Institutes and Departments, held at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and organized by Alexandria University. The university’s winning entry, “Jaffa and the Blue Door,” directed by Madonna Hanna, was presented as part of the Children’s Theatre segment. The play’s success is a testament to the creative and academic excellence of the university’s performing arts initiatives. The week-long festival featured intense competition among university theatre troupes from three continents—Asia, Africa, and Europe—highlighting the international scope of the event and making the recognition a significant marker of artistic distinction. The Jordanian production received high praise from critics and the jury, which included distinguished theatre professionals from the Arab and international scenes. The play tells a touching story of a dialogue between a grandfather and his granddaughter, Jaffa, with the “blue door” later revealed to symbolize the grandfather’s longing and connection to the Palestinian city of Jaffa. The performance was notable for its use of puppetry, choreographed scenes, and meaningful music and songs, creating an experience aimed at awakening the Arab child’s awareness and nurturing a deep-rooted sense of identity and attachment to the cause of Palestine. The play attracted a large and diverse audience, with the theatre seats filled by spectators from various nationalities. The strong engagement was supported by live translated subtitles prepared by the director, allowing international viewers to fully follow and appreciate the symbolic narrative of the play. Among the attendees was Dr. Abdullah Al-Harasisheh, Cultural Attaché of Jordan in Cairo, who took to the stage to express his pride in Al-Ahliyya Amman University. He praised its growing academic reputation and outstanding achievements, which have empowered its graduates to compete globally—reflecting the quality and diversity of education it offers. As part of the recognition, the Cultural Attaché also presented a commemorative shield on behalf of the university to Dr. Manal Fouda, Festival President, in appreciation of her efforts in organizing this important international cultural and artistic platform for student creativity. During the closing ceremony on Tuesday evening, the jury announced the university as the recipient of the following three awards: • Special Jury Prize for overall production excellence • Best Music Award • Best Poetry Award This achievement further solidifies Al-Ahliyya Amman University’s prominent presence in international cultural and artistic forums, affirming its commitment to supporting student creativity and enriching the cultural landscape of Jordan and the Arab world.