Sharjah 24: Visitors to the 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) were treated to a stellar theatrical performance entitled “Barcode Prison” by a talented group of homegrown artists; part of arguably the largest Emirati production of 2023.

The play addresses the social evil of bullying, and how it afflicts particularly those aged 18 and above, and will be staging its last show at the SIBF 2023 theatre. 

Centred on the poignant story of a group of prisoners confined to a bleak world – one where each is assigned a barcode instead of a name – it doesn’t take long for the audience to see their depressing incarceration as the play delves deep into the themes of isolation, and despair, and the human spirit's indomitable will to persevere in the face of adversity.

The roughly three-hour-long show delivers a fresh new perspective on the issue of bullying within the confines of a prison with director Marwan Abdullah Saleh driving home his message in a crisp, humorous manner using the group of unruly inmates awaiting their sentences – all played by talented Emirati actors Marwan Abdullah, Ahmed Mal Allah, Musa Al Bukishi, Bader Hakmi, Haifa Al Ali, and Reem Al Faisal.

And just as the ‘prisoners’ begin to find out about each other, how each of their fellow inmates end up in jail, the plot thickens, leaving the audience on an emotional rollercoaster, transporting them into the heart of the "Barcode Prison". The stark set design, combined with evocative lighting and soundscapes only adding to the aura in what eventually turns out to be a stunning showcase of powerful storytelling using comic turns and songs.

The portrayal of the prisoners' struggles, their yearning for freedom, and their relentless resistance against an unforgiving system resonated deeply with the audience. The skillful use of metaphors and symbolism added layers of complexity to the narrative, driving home the message of hope in even the darkest of times.

“Barcode Prison” is among the lineup of 130 theatrical performances being showcased during this year’s SIBF that comes to a close on November 12.