Sharjah book fair presents a November to remember
‘Barcode Prison’ and ‘ALJ Sisters’ band to enthral visitors during the 12-day cultural extravaganza
As the 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) approaches, visitors are in for a cultural journey that combines literature, art, and entertainment. Taking place at the Expo Centre Sharjah from 1-12 November, SIBF will be a celebration of books as well as a spectacular showcase of theatre for all age groups.
This year, SIBF will host the “Barcode Prison” play, considered the largest Emirati theatrical production in 2023, alongside a play by the ALJ Sisters Band.
“BARCODE PRISON” – A SPECTACULAR EMIRATI THEATRICAL PRODUCTION: The play “Barcode Prison,” targeting an audience aged 18 and above, will run for three consecutive days starting november 3. This captivating performance provides a unique and humorous perspective on the issue of bullying within a prison, where a group of unruly inmates await their sentence. The cast boasts exceptional Emirati talent, including Marwan Abdullah, Ahmed Mal Allah, Musa Al Bukishi, Bader Hakmi, Haifa Al Ali, and Reem Al Faisal. Directed by Marwan Abdullah Saleh, this theatrical play addresses the sensitive subject of bullying.
Tickets are available via htps://sharjah.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/89076/barcodeprison-play
ALJ SISTERS BAND PRESENTS A DELIGHTFUL CHILDREN’S PLAY: Younger visitors to SIBF will have the opportunity to be entertained by the ALJ Sisters Band, featuring the talented Aljoud Albaanon,wadhaalayoub,andaljourryalbaanon. Their musical play, set to run in November, follows three young girls as they navigate various situations, each teaching valuable life lessons and social values. While each sister has a unique personality and hobby, they are united by love, friendship, and cooperation. The play’s aim is to develop children’s skills, boost self-confidence, and promote moral values such as kindness and respect, and will run on Friday, November 10th, with two showings, the first at 6:00 PM, and the second at 8:00 PM, as well as on Saturday, November 11th at 6:00 PM.
Secure your tickets for the ALJ Sisters Band performance at htps://sharjah.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/89177/alj-sisters-musical-show
The 42nd instalment of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) has achieved a historic milestone by atracting the highest number of participating countries since its inception in 1981. This edition will play host to 2,033 publishers and exhibitors from 108 nations, both in the Arab and international spheres. They will collectively present an impressive array of 1.5 million titles, all to be showcased at the Expo Centre Sharjah from 1-12 November.
SIBF 2023, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) under the theme ‘We Speak Books,’ will bring together 600 authors from around the world to sign their new works. This is part of a comprehensive cultural, creative, and entertaining 12-day agenda that includes over 1,700 activities led by 215 guests from 69 countries targeting all age groups and diverse interests.
This year, SIBF celebrates South Korea as the Guest of Honour for the 42nd edition, showcasing the knowledge and cultural scene in fields such as literature, art, technology, and the culture of the Asian country. The cultural extravaganza will also host an exhibition in collaboration with the Portuguese University of Coimbra featuring 60 historical artefacts. Furthermore, the book fair has dedicated six interactive spaces to upskill visitors and enrich their knowledge.
This announcement was made during a press conference held at the SBA headquarters where Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; Moon Byung-iun, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Dubai; Salem Al Ghaithi, Director of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority; Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF; and Mansour Alhassani, Director of Publisher’s Services at SBA, unveiled the agenda of the highly anticipated international event. The conference was also atended by Mohammed Al Amimi, Vice President Business Engagement & Customer Support, ‘Etisalat by e&’, as well as officials and media representatives.
During his keynote speech, Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri affirmed that Sharjah has become a hub connecting the East and West. This achievement is atributed to the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who recognised the importance of knowledge and books in nation-building and the advancement of civilisations.