The Oscarisma Studio opened the night with a silent theatrical performance called 'Sweet China'.  The evening’s programme promised that the show would portray 'the irony of the advanced world waiting for the latest production from the Chinese market'. The message, however, did not quite come across.

The performance told the story of a couple buying a house choir robot from a dodgy salesman. The salesman and the robot turn out to be robbers and steal from the unfortunate couple's home.

The only visible reference to China is a 'Made in China'  sign on the cardboard box, from which the robot enters the stage. Possibly, the irony resides in the fact that 'advanced world' consumers are robbed of their money, by useless products produced in China. Regardless of the success of the message, it was an enjoyable performance, filled with good humour and catchy music, while the mimes showed off their skillful moves.

A traditional band followed the mimes. The music was absorbing, with the drummers in particular playing almost hypnotic beats. The addition of two Sufi dancers whirling in colourful dresses elevated the show from good to great.

But what really makes an evening at the Darb Centre worthwhile is the variety of arts and spectacles if offers.

Storyteller - Abeer Soliman concluded the evening on a lighter note with her re-interpretation of Naguib Mahfouz’s tale 'Nights of a Thousannd Nights'.  She was passionate and convincing, keeping the crowd hanging on her words for the entire performance.

Al-Masry Al-Youm

#LISA