Reza Saberi: The weakness of playwriting is the Achilles heel of Iranian provincial theater

The effect of provincial theater productions in improving the quantity and quality of Iranian theater, introducing young talents to the artistic community and attracting audiences are things to think about, which lead theater managers to pay more attention to discover artists in the provinces. Holding provincial theater festivals is one of the ways to recognize and introduce stage artists to the artistic community.

Reza Saberi,  stage actor, writer and director of Khorasan province, is one of the most well-known artists active . Iran Theater had a conversation with him about the importance of holding provincial festivals to strengthen the mainstream theaters in cities across the country.

He said about the theater conditions in the cities and outside of Tehran: "City theaters have shortcomings and problems, and the biggest reason for this is the lack of good plays. The lack of a good play has caused weakness in directing, acting, stage and costume designs, etc. "

He  added: "Unfortunately, our theater has been dealing with the weakness in playwriting for about a hundred years. We should try to propound playwriting among the youth. Cultural institutions and organizations should provide platforms to attract people interested in this art. These organizations should specify what plan they have to expand playwriting as an important and fundamental element of theater. We have ancient and rich fiction literature that can be used in the field of dramatic literature, but unfortunately, they are neglected."

Saberi explained about the using of foreign plays: "Using foreign play is not a bad experience. But social media and internet have become a disaster for theater artists. Instead of coming up with ideas, they are busy copying of other performances."

He added: "new generation should pay more attention to Iranian plays and cultural concerns of their country. We have prominent and well-known playwrights and if it is possible to perform their works, will definitely be effective in improving the theaters of provinces across Iran. Many of their works are suitable for today's theater And getting inspiration from these plays not only helps the young generation to know about prominent playwrights of the country, but also establishes a connection between the theater of today and the theater of our past. Young generation does not know Iranian theater and does not know about Iran theater in the past. Using these plays for public performance or participation in festivals will definitely increase the quality of the works."