The Dialectic of Presence and Absence of Theatre in Arab Culture

Abstract

This study examines the dialectic of presence and absence in Arab theatre as one of the central issues in Arab critical discourse. It explores the debate surrounding the existence of theatre in Arab culture by examining the divergent critical perspectives that either affirm its deep roots in the Arab cultural heritage or regard it as a modern phenomenon that emerged through contact with the West. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach to investigate the theatrical phenomenon and trace its historical and intellectual development, beginning with the performative and spectacular forms embedded in the Arab heritage, followed by the formative stages of modern Arab theatre, and then addressing the issues of identity, authenticity, and Arabization, before finally considering the current state of Arab theatre and the prospects for its presence in light of contemporary cultural and technological transformations. The study concludes that the dialectic of presence and absence is not primarily a question of affirming or denying the existence of theatre; rather, it stems from differing conceptions of theatre and the criteria by which it is defined. It further argues that many traditional forms constitute performative and spectacular precursors that do not meet the institutional and artistic requirements of theatre in its modern sense. Although modern Arab theatre has succeeded in establishing a significant cultural presence, it continues to face challenges related to identity, social effectiveness, and its ability to renew its expressive forms and respond to contemporary transformations, thereby strengthening its role as a cultural practice that contributes to the production of knowledge, the development of critical awareness, and the promotion of dialogue.