The Palestinian Performing Arts Network (PPAN) organised its first conference, focusing on ‘The impact of arts on communities’, the first of its kind in Palestine. It was held in the Palestinian Red Crescent Society in Ramallah from 29th November – 1st December.
The Freedom Theatre, as as member of PPAN, participated in this conference and Mustafa Sheta, General Secretary TFT, chaired a session not he political and social impact of arts on communities.
The aim of the conference was to highlight the arts as a tool for influencing communities at different levels moving towards social, political, economic and educational change.
The conference included various themes, including strategic planning for culture and arts at a national level, highlighting the role of the arts as a tool for knowledge and the preservation of identity. It also provided a platform to share local, national and international success stories and experiences. The various sessions focused on the social and political impact of the art, using this as a means to promote freedom of expression and defend the public freedom of artists as well as methods of networking, exchange of ideas and opportunities for future projects.
We look forward to seeing the outcomes of this conference and hope to participate in this an annual event, which aims to continue building, developing and promoting cultural resistance using the arts and communities in Palestine.