The 20th Tehran-Mobarak International Puppet Theater Festival commenced on the evening of Monday, December 16, 2024, at Fire and Water (Ab-o-Atash) Park.

According to the Public Relations Office of the Abasabad Cultural and Tourism Area of Tehran (ACTAT), the opening ceremony was attended by Seyed Mohammad Hossein Hejazi, CEO of ACTAT; Nader Rezaei, Deputy Minister for Artistic Affairs at the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance; Etabak Naderi, Director General of Performing Arts; the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan; and numerous artists from the theater and performing arts community.

During the ceremony, Seyed Mohammad Hossein Hejazi thanked the public for their presence. He expressed hope that the opening of the puppet theater festival would mark the beginning of positive developments under the new government.

He also emphasized that the participation of various countries in the festival—including the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan and his spouse—would foster cultural and artistic exchange and enhance the quality of performing arts.

Hejazi noted that ACTAT consistently supports cultural and artistic activities and provides a space to bring joy to the public.

Nader Rezaei, Deputy Minister for Artistic Affairs at the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, also spoke to reporters. Referring to the festival’s slogan, “The White Dream of Friendship,” he explained that the opening ceremony was designed in a Yalda night atmosphere, featuring pomegranates and other Yalda elements rooted in Iran’s ancient heritage, symbolizing friendship, peace, purity, and light.

Rezaei added that from its 11th to 20th editions, the festival has drawn inspiration from Iran’s traditional performing arts, particularly the character “Mubarak.” The program includes various sections such as outdoor performances, inclusive theater, and international productions featuring groups from France, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan, as well as playwriting workshops and discussion panels. A new section dedicated to 100-second videos has also been introduced, with a focus on digital inclusivity and addressing the interests and perspectives of younger generations.

Regarding the possibility of returning the festival to the summer season, Rezaei noted that the current cold and polluted weather conditions make it challenging to ensure strong attendance by families and children. Efforts are therefore being made to hold future editions in a more suitable season.

The 20th Tehran-Mobarak International Puppet Theater Festival, under the slogan “The White Dream of Friendship,” will continue in Tehran until December 23, 2024.