The cultural stage in Tartous hosted the premiere of “Agony”, a new production by the young Syrian troupe Al-Arrab for Performing Arts. The play is part of a series tackling human struggles and inner conflicts, blending psychological drama with echoes of Greek tragedy and the philosophy of self-purification.
Written and directed by Issam Allam, the play follows a man in his forties confronting the mistakes of his past through dreams and haunting visions. Ideas are personified on stage as living characters, offering a philosophical re-reading of experiences that shaped the protagonist’s isolation.
Five actors portray the influences of a troubled upbringing: the loss of his mother, repression by a father who denied him art and music, and the heartbreak of losing his beloved due to social barriers. Actress Maria Shildah plays Salma, the wife, embodying women’s struggles under oppressive notions of masculinity.
Actor Khader Younes portrays “Agony,” the central figure, engaging in dialogue with his younger self until reaching a moment of liberation.
Actress Nour Abu Talje takes on dual roles: the “idea,” symbolizing purity and hope, and the supportive lover, culminating in a dance of release that signifies the hero’s reconciliation with himself.
Al-Arrab troupe has distinguished itself with works of philosophical and human depth, including “Shadows,” “Memory of Water,” and “Stone of Time.” Its productions focus on identity, freedom, and the search for self, using experimental techniques and symbolic imagery to probe the human psyche.
