The Ritualistic Performance of Actors in Nashat Mabrak’s Theatrical production (The Ritual of Firewood as a Model_)

Abstract

Acting performance is a fundamental pillar in shaping the aesthetic and intellectual structure of a theatrical production, particularly when it intersects with the ritualistic dimension-a comprehensive system of actions, movements, and symbols rooted in diverse cultural, social, and religious references, and linked to human customs, traditions, and habitual daily practices. This study comprises four chapters. The first chapter establishes the methodological framework, beginning with the research problem and its rationale; the researcher formulated the central question: How did the ritualistic nature of acting performance manifest in the production Rituals of Firewood (Tuqus al-Hatab) by director Nashat Mubarak, and what artistic and aesthetic mechanisms did the director employ to integrate ritualism into the actors' performance structure? The study also outlines its significance and objectives: to explore the concept of ritualism and its relationship to theatrical acting, to identify the ritualistic characteristics of acting in Nashat Mubarak's productions, and to define key terms-specifically "ritual" and "acting performance." Operationally, the researcher defined "ritual" as the system of kinetic, vocal, and bodily signs employed by the actor within the theatrical performance to generate meanings of a celebratory or ceremonial nature. The second chapter presents the theoretical framework, divided into two sections: the first addresses the concept and origins of ritual, while the second examines the manifestations of ritualism within acting performance. Chapter Three outlines the research procedures; the study sample was selected purposively to align with the research objective, utilizing the play Rituals of Firewood (Tuqus al-Hatab) as a model for analysis. Chapter Four is dedicated to discussing the research findings and conclusions, the most notable of which are:                                                                                        

The study demonstrated that ritualism constitutes a fundamental structural element in Nashat Mubarak's theatrical productions, rather than merely a secondary aesthetic feature.

Rituals of Firewood relied significantly on The results revealed that the acting performance in repetitive movement and bodily and vocal rhythm as key pillars in constructing the ritualistic action. The study concludes with recommendations, suggestions, and a list of sources in both Arabic and English