Theaters of War: Gaza’s Performers Confront Trauma on Stage

Theater has long been a refuge for those seeking escape from hardship. But in Gaza, where war and occupation have ravaged the landscape, the boundaries between performance and reality are increasingly blurred. Actors like Abu Qaddoura, who plays a doctor amputating his son’s leg in the play “50 Minutes in Gaza,” draw on their own experiences to fuel their performances.

The production, directed by Ali Abu Yasin, is a testament to the resilience of the Palestinian people. Despite the destruction of al-Mishal Cultural Centre and damage to Rashad al-Shawa Cultural Centre, actors have created a makeshift theater in the car park of the latter. Their journey involves improvisation and adaptation as they navigate challenges such as finding space, securing resources, and overcoming the emotional toll of their work.

The play is based on real-life experiences, including the story of a father who lost his child in a Gaza hospital. By drawing on these stories, actors confront trauma they have endured firsthand. As Qaddoura notes, “Every time I held that child on stage, terror gripped my heart that tomorrow this could be one of my own sons.” This raw emotional connection makes the performance powerful and a testament to art’s enduring power in the face of adversity.

The story of “50 Minutes in Gaza” speaks to a wider pattern of cultural destruction unfolding in Palestine. UNESCO has verified damage to 164 cultural sites in Gaza since October 7, 2023, including 128 buildings of historical or artistic interest. This is not just about lost artifacts or damaged infrastructure; it’s about erasing a people’s history and identity.

The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation’s support for this production is crucial, providing basic resources and a small honorarium to the performers. The foundation recognizes the importance of art in times of war, as Abu Yasin notes: “When we step onto the theatre stage, we feel more alive.” This is not just about entertainment; it’s about survival.

As the world watches chaos unfold in Gaza, it’s easy to forget the human cost of this conflict. The actors in “50 Minutes in Gaza” are a reminder that even amidst devastation, there is still room for creativity, resilience, and hope. Their story is one of ordinary people doing extraordinary things in the face of unimaginable hardship.

The future of art in Palestine hangs in the balance as destruction continues. Will makeshift theaters be seen as necessary evils or recognized as vital parts of Palestinian culture and identity? The answer lies not just in preserving physical infrastructure but also in recognizing the cultural significance of art in times of conflict. Actors on stage are not just performers but witnesses to history, their experiences and stories a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.

As we watch “50 Minutes in Gaza,” we’re reminded that even amidst ruins, there is still room for beauty, creativity, and resistance. The question now is whether we will continue to support these efforts or let destruction silence the voices of Palestine’s performers once again.