Dubai is cultivating a vibrant creative landscape, enriched with beauty and artistic expression that inspires the imagination of young talents. The city hosts literary workshops that facilitate communication between seasoned creators and passionate aspiring writers.
Several organizers and participants of these literary workshops have noted that Dubai is contributing to the development of promising writers by honing their creative skills and enhancing the appreciation of literature in its various forms.
Collaborative Efforts
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Al-Hanouf Mohammed, a prominent Emirati poet and General Secretary at the Dubai National Theatre, stated that there is a fruitful collaboration between the Dubai National Theatre and the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in organizing annual literary workshops and courses that play a crucial role in fostering creativity within the community. She praised the outstanding individuals who bring their extensive expertise to these workshops.
According to Al-Hanouf, one of the key highlights of the literary workshops in Dubai, particularly the recent session on “The Art of Playwriting” held at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, is the large number of participants. This not only enriches the event but also showcases the enthusiasm of new talents eager to learn and refine their skills. She reaffirmed that these workshops are capable of producing new writers, as many celebrated authors have emerged from similar initiatives.
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Social activist Khalid Al-Haddad emphasized the significance of these distinctive literary workshops in Dubai, highlighting their positive impact across various domains. He noted that the ultimate goal for participants determines the nature of the benefits they gain from attending.
Al-Haddad shared that his focus is on playwriting and understanding essential terms he recorded during his participation in the “Art of Playwriting” workshop, which he plans to apply in his future theatrical productions. He believes the value of these workshops lies in educating the community on different aspects of creativity and nurturing talents.
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Dr. Mahmoud Bakri, an enthusiastic participant in the literary workshops, mentioned that what draws him to attend is his interest in understanding the fundamental differences between theater and novels, as well as various techniques and the role of plot in creating literary suspense.
He explained that these workshops enable participants to grasp essential aspects of the evolution of literary genres and the significant role they play in society.
Bakri also noted that these workshops address the needs of writers and researchers, enhancing their ability to appreciate different literary forms while providing newcomers with a comprehensive yet simplified presentation of extensive information over a short period. He suggested offering participants more time to engage in practical exercises to better acquire the necessary skills.
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Ahmed Mohammed Ismail, who has participated in several literary workshops and theater activities in Dubai, highlighted that the presenter’s teaching style is a primary factor that attracts him to participate and seek beneficial knowledge. He noted the effective blend of precision and simplicity in delivering information.
Ismail remarked, “The literary workshops in Dubai contribute to developing a talented writer, provided essential factors are present. These include a passion for the specific literary genre one practices, and being an avid reader dedicated to honing creative tools,” emphasizing the enriching discussions these gatherings foster.
Broad Knowledge
Naness Afifi, engaged in voice acting and storytelling, emphasized that the ongoing and intensive literary workshops at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library not only equip specialists with skills in their respective fields but also open new horizons for those outside their specialty.
She pointed out that the positive impact of these literary workshops stems from the substantial knowledge and expertise of the speakers involved in these initiatives.
Afifi highlighted the necessity for creatives to possess innate curiosity and a desire for comprehensive knowledge to gain a broader perspective on literary arts, affirming that participation in these workshops cultivates thought and enhances individuals’ creative capacities in their respective domains.