Pushing arts and culture forward

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has stepped up efforts to champion its arts and literature, with the Ministry of Information unveiling a range of projects and initiatives designed to place local creativity in the spotlight.

Working closely with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), the ministry is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the kingdom’s rich heritage while encouraging modern artistic expressions.

In its response to Deputy Speaker MP Abdulla Salman, the ministry revealed plans for regular television and radio broadcasts that offer Bahraini writers, artists, and thinkers a platform to share their stories.

These interactive pro - grammes aim to connect the public with the island’s creative voices, giving a glimpse into their journeys and achievements.

Cultural events remain a cornerstone of the ministry’s agenda.

Media coverage

Festivals, exhibitions, and artistic gatherings such as “Muharraq Nights”, the “Spring of Culture” Festival, and the “Music Festival” are given wide media coverage to reach both local and global audiences.

Events spearheaded by the BACA also receive comprehensive exposure.

Adding to this, the Gulf Radio and Television Festival, held every two years, has become a focal point for media and artistic talents across the region.

Organised in collaboration with the Gulf Radio and Television Organisation, the festival offers a stage for showcasing new works and exchanging ideas.

Artistic heritage

Beyond the borders, Bahrain Cultural Days has helped spread awareness of the kingdom’s artistic heritage.

The ministry has backed these efforts with documentaries and television features that delve into Bahrain’s literary and artistic traditions, preserving them for future generations while shining a light on its cultural treasures.

The ministry’s drive to support talent includes the Media Talent Award, launched in 2023.

Public speaking

The first year focused on public speaking, with the following year turning attention to acting.

In 2024, Al Dana Drama Award made waves as the first Arab prize recognising drama productions from Bahraini and Gulf creators, attracting widespread attention across the region.

Homegrown productions are further supported by the Creative Content Competition, which backs drama, cinema, songs, and plays.

Short stories

Meanwhile, the “We Write in Arabic” scheme, run in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Bahrain Islamic Bank, and the Bahrain Writers and Authors Association, encourages schoolchildren to craft short stories in Arabic, promoting a love for their native language.

The ministry has also joined forces with organisations such as the Bahrain Theatrical Society, Bahrain Cinema Club, and Bahrain Writers Association to keep Bahrain’s artistic pulse alive.

Campaigns to promote the kingdom’s cultural landmarks, from Bahrain Fort and the Bahrain National Museum to the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path, have been launched, ensuring these treasures are celebrated both locally and abroad.