Podcast from Abu Dhabi - Hall 8
As part of the classic tales inspired by One Thousand and One Nights, this session explores the story of “The Fisherman and the Jinni”, a tale that masterfully blends popular folklore with profound human wisdom.
The session sheds light on key elements of traditional Arabic storytelling, as found in One Thousand and One Nights, and delves into the symbolic relationship between humans and the unseen. It also offers an analytical reading of the tale’s narrative style, structure, and moral lessons, reflecting the richness of classical Arab literature and its enduring relevance.
Actor
A theatre and television actor, as well as an Arabic language professor, he has played a prominent role in both amateur and professional theatre, including audience-engaged productions. He has stood out in several notable works, most notably the play “Al-Raheeb” with the Tunisian National Theatre, and has also performed in many children’s plays under Al-Firdaws Company.
On television, he currently appears in dramatic sketches and also works in dubbing international series on Nessma TV. Additionally, he has extensive experience in radio drama, having contributed to dozens of productions, including both series and televised plays.
Actress
Sondes Hammou is a Tunisian actress who began her artistic career in the 1990s. She became widely known for her role as “Najma” in the 1995 TV series Al-Hassad (The Harvest)—a performance that resonated strongly with audiences. She went on to star in notable series like Manamet Arousiyya (2000), as well as several acclaimed radio productions including Imarat Al-Ajab, Mahboub Al-Shaab, and Al-Mawswas between 2020 and 2021.
After choosing to wear the hijab, Sondes affirmed that she never stepped away from acting. She continues to attend auditions and believes her artistic expression has grown deeper. She is married to Tunisian actor Anouar Ayach, and together they have appeared in multiple interviews where they’ve shared insights into both their personal and professional lives.
Sondes Hammou remains one of the familiar faces in Tunisian drama, especially in works that explore social and cultural themes.
Radio and Television Director
Anouar Ayach is a versatile Tunisian artist whose work spans acting and directing across radio, television, and theater. His career began in the early 1990s, and he has participated in numerous popular productions. Some of his standout acting roles include appearances in Al-Douar (1992), Dabel Akhou Dahbel (1995), Al-Rihana (2001), and Qudat Min Tarikhina (Judges from Our History) in 2020.
In 2023, he featured in the Libyan series Al-Saraya 2, portraying the historical military figure Commodore Richard Dale. The series was filmed in Tunisia and brought together actors from Tunisia, Syria, and Libya.
As a director, Anouar has worked on several radio and television productions, including the series Qudat Min Tarikhina and the sitcom Quloub House—a collaborative production between Diwan FM and the national radio station. In theater, he directed the children’s play The Wisdom of a Parrot in the Time of the Pandemic, supported by the Tunisian Ministry of Culture.
Cultural Advisor
Dhekra Ouali is a Tunisian media professional and cultural advisor based in the United Arab Emirates. She is one of the leading Tunisian figures living abroad and currently serves as the cultural advisor to Sheikha Alyazia bint Nahyan Al Nahyan, the first Extraordinary Ambassador for Arab Culture at ALECSO (the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization).
Dhekra is well known for her contributions to cultural media, having moderated major panel discussions at key cultural events. Beyond her advisory role, she also produces documentary films with a focus on preserving Arab cultural heritage and strengthening cultural identity. Active on social media, she regularly shares content that highlights arts and culture across the Arab world.
Dhekra Ouali is widely regarded as a prominent figure in the Arab cultural scene, continuing to promote Arab culture and empower young people through media and diverse cultural initiatives.