Sharjah24: The upcoming 15th annual Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) has unveiled three multilingual and multicultural theatrical delights as part of its vibrant 12-day cultural agenda. Three delightfully entertaining plays will be staged on the SCRF 2024 platform between May 1 and 12 in Expo Centre Sharjah.

Along with 1,400 other events and activities inspired by the SCRF 2024 theme, ‘Once Upon a Hero,’ this year’s festival promises to transport young minds into realms of boundless creativity and storytelling magic.

The stellar lineup of theatrical productions, comprising three extraordinary plays, are all poised to encourage thought and creative appreciation in audiences of all ages. 

Your Choice
On May 10 & 11, between 7:30 and 9:00 pm, the SCRF Ballroom in Hall 5 will stage “Your Choice,” an interactive play that places the audience at the heart of the narrative. Set in an art school, the play follows a group of students navigating their dreams and aspirations. Spectators actively participate in shaping the unfolding events, fostering a sense of creativity and collaboration that resonates long after the curtains close. On May 12, the interactive play will run from 6:00-7:30 pm.

The play, written by Fatima Al Amer and directed by Mohammed Al Ansari, features performances by artists Hanadi Al Kandari, Shoug Al Hadi, Mohammed Al Haddad, Fahad Basim, Talal Basim, Shamlan Al Omairi, Saud Al Zaraouni, Sheikha Al Aslawi, Malek Abu Zaid, and Ahlam Al Tamimi. Tickets for the play are available in three categories: gold, silver, and bronze, with prices starting at AED 75, AED 150, and AED 200, through the following link: 
https://sharjah.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/91837/your-choice-play

Hum Bhi Agar Bachche Hote
Step into a world of whimsy and wonder with “Hum Bhi Agar Bachche Hote,” an interactive storytelling evening led by renowned Pakistani playwright Waseem Badami. On Sunday, May 5, from 5:00-6:30 pm, at the SCRF 2024 Ballroom in Hall 5, Badami, accompanied by lead actor Bilal Maqsood and puppeteer artist Ahsan Khan, will regale audiences with captivating tales and humorous poetry. Through his unique theatrical style, Badami invites both young and old to rediscover the joy and innocence of childhood.

Tribute to Moin Akhtar
Directed by the esteemed Anwar Maqsood, this poignant production pays homage to Moin Akhtar’s enduring legacy, inviting audiences to celebrate the life and contributions of this iconic figure. With Anwar Maqsood portraying Akhtar himself, accompanied by a documentary showcasing his remarkable journey, the Sharjah Expo Center Theatre (Hall 5 - Ballroom) will be filled with laughter, nostalgia and heartfelt appreciation. Scheduled for one show on Sunday, May 5, from 7:30-9:00 pm.

Discounts of up to 50% can be availed for the Tribute to Moin Akhtar and Hum Bhi Agar Bachche Hote via https://sharjah.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/91898/hum-bhi-agar-bachche-hotey-with-waseem-badami-bilal-maqsood and https://sharjah.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/91899/tribute-to-moin-akhtar-with-anwar-maqsood

SCRF, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), is the region’s largest event dedicated to nurturing young readers' imaginations. Now in its 15th edition, SCRF continues to inspire and educate through a diverse range of cultural, artistic, and edutainment activities.