Arbaeen Pilgrimage International Theater Festival

The Arbaeen Pilgrimage International Theater Festival coincides with the Arbaeen pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The event takes place at ten strategic locations along the walking path, as well as within the cities of Najaf and Karbala. It is designed to utilize art as a medium for spiritual reflection and cultural engagement for devotees traveling to the shrines of Imam Hussein (AS) and Hazrat Abbas (AS).

The program includes a curated selection of theatrical works encompassing various Iranian and Islamic dramatic traditions. Featured genres include tazieh (Iranian passion plays), naqqali (traditional storytelling), street theater, and puppetry. A unique aspect of the event is the mobile Mukeb, which brings live stage shows directly to the crowds of pilgrims. All participating artists take a cultural vow to perform as a spiritual offering without receiving payment.

The 10th edition involves collaboration between various institutions, including the Iranian Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance and the Tehran Municipality. While the festival has an international scope, performances in this edition are primarily held in Persian and Arabic. The festival organizers aim to foster global artistic connections and expand theatrical communication between nations across the Islamic world.