Sudan’s National Theatre has reopened following rehabilitation work, with senior government officials attending a ceremony in Omdurman.

Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism, Khalid Al-Eisir, Al-Eisir described the inauguration of the first phase of the theatre’s rehabilitation as a declaration of the return of Khartoum’s cultural spirit, state media SUNA reports.

He added the National Theatre was central to preserving Sudan’s collective memory and countering efforts to fragment the country.

Al-Eisir said the rehabilitation project was among the key initiatives implemented by the state government in cooperation with the federal ministry, supported by partnerships and volunteer efforts under the auspices of the State Police, the Intelligence Service and the Theatre Revival Group.

Second phase

Representing the Transitional Sovereignty Council and what he described as the “Government of Hope,” the minister pledged to complete the second phase of the project, restoring the theatre to its original role in strengthening social cohesion and showcasing Sudanese culture.

Ahmed Osman Hamza, Khartoum State governor, highlighted the role of culture and theatre in what he described as the struggle for dignity, saying creatives across all fields have an important role in building peace and reinforcing social cohesion.

Speaking on behalf of the Theatre Revival Group, Dr Tarik Hassan Al-Bahar said the reopening of the National Theatre reflects Sudanese national identity and cultural heritage in the arts.

He said the second phase of rehabilitation would require state support to complete the remaining work, and announced plans to rehabilitate the Folk Arts Theatre, organise a Khartoum State Theatre Conference to reflect post-war Sudan, and stage a Dignity Theatre Festival.