Rivers to a Sea of Creative Development

For the first time, twelve performing arts institutions have joined forces to create the Palestinian Performing Arts Network Program. Funded by SIDA and managed by the A.M. Qattan Foundation, the program will aim to create an active, independent nework and contribute “towards the development of a democratic, pluralistic society that respects human rights and enhances Palestinian national identity,” explains program manager Yousef Nazzel.

By supporting folk dance, theater, music, and circus, PAN is increasing access to the performing arts for all residents of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and encouraging Palestinian youth, male and female, to be culturally and socially engaged in the arts as learners and performers. A summer dance showcase of debke in the West Bank village of Beit Omar, for example, was not only a rare chance for locals to attend a cultural event, but also the first time in village history that women had performed onstage with men, thus emphasizing gender as well as social equality.

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For more info – http://palestinianpan.blogspot.com/