“News with Manar”

The play “News with Manar” presents a contemporary artistic vision that resonates with the pulse of Palestinian youth and critically explores the issue of female students’ political participation in universities. Through the story of Manar; a young social media activist who uses her platforms as a space to raise bold and direct questions about the role of student councils, the meaning of genuine representation, and the limits of influence within the university campus.
The performance combines live theatre with a media-inspired format, blending the language of traditional theatre with the tools of digital media. In doing so, it speaks to a generation that lives its daily reality both online and offline. “News with Manar” is not merely a theatrical production; it is an interactive experience that reflects the realities of female students while raising questions about discrimination, social pressure, and the lack of effective female representation in decision-making spaces within universities.
The play seeks to stimulate dialogue around democracy and invites audiences to rethink the concept of student leadership from a feminist and youth perspective. It is a call for change that begins within university classrooms—where the first experiences of citizenship and participation are shaped—and extends to the wider society. Through Manar, the play opens windows onto the dreams and aspirations of many young women, while questioning the systems that often hinder their voices from reaching the forefront.

Writer & Dramaturg: Mirna Sakhleh
Directors: Nicola Zreineh | Marina Johnson
Actors: Abdallah Bannoura | Aline Jaraiseh | Farah Ishtayeh
Technicians: Issam Rishmawi | Ahmad Saleh
Production Manager: George Matar
Producer: Marina Barham – Al-Harah Theater 2025
This play was produced in partnership with the YWCA under the YW4A project