Lebanese, Indian, Mexican Folk Artists Stand out at Qemam International Festival

Abha, January 23, 2024, SPA -- A dazzling series of performing arts by representatives of different cultures held in awe attendees at the Qemam International Festival for Mountain Performance Arts, has been organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission in several heritage locations in the Asir region, including in the city of Abha with its Shamsan Castle.
The shows featured arts from Lebanon, Mexico, and India, besides the popular Asir folk art.
The ancient castle hosted yesterday evening a traditional troupe from Lebanon who performed Dabke, a dance where performers line up and their movements are guided by a premier performer who determines their sequence.
A traditional Mexican band presented the art of Huasteca Ed Algonsi, with performing vocalists, in addition to Sonis de Calabaceado, the art of cattle herders, which is characterized by enthusiasm.
Indian artists performed Raslila, one of the eight major forms of Indian classical dance, originating from Manipur.
Performing groups from Asir presented several acts with which the public interacted greatly, including the folkloric Southern Ardha, which is performed by more than 20 men and features poetry reading and also choreographed movements.
Then there was a performance by the Rayeh artists who dance holding sticks while facing each other in two rows. Verses from famous poetry are also uttered in the process.
Rayeh, is associated with occasions like weddings, holidays, and ceremonial events.
Poetic chanting in Asir tunes were presented during the Iqbal show, which features a group of performers who chant verses from poems. It is also a way of celebrating weddings and holidays.
The historic Shamsan Castle was selected as one of the event sites; over a century old, it is a unique setting for such events that bring together the heritage of the Asir region and tourism.
The castle is 2,200 meters above sea level. Covering 5,389 square meters, its aesthetic appearance complements the view of the city of Abha.
-- SPA