Al-SAHA is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking project titled SAFAR, generously funded by the Ontario Art Council. Derived from the Arabic word for "travel," SAFAR symbolizes the sacrifice and longing prevalent in the Middle East, embodying themes of separation from family warmth, experiences of living alone in foreign lands, and the determination to secure a better life for loved ones back home.

SAFAR employs the Theatre of the Oppressed technique conceived by Augusto Boal, enabling participants to collectively develop the play through engaging games. Through drama, participants explore real-life experiences, improvise interior monologues, and address integration and civic engagement challenges within Canadian society, particularly among different age groups in the Arab community.

The primary focus of SAFAR is to shed light on the challenges faced by the Arab community in integrating into Canadian society, particularly through the lens of youth groups. Capturing daily life challenges in Canada through short sketches, SAFAR aims to create a deeper connection and invite audience engagement.

These meticulously crafted sketches serve as catalysts for dialogue and change, presented in public spaces to offer a transformative experience. Spect-actors engage with narratives, becoming integral parts of the performance.

The essence of empowerment lies in this dynamic interaction, fostering an environment for dialogue and change. SAFAR aims to turn passive spectators into active agents of change, inspiring positive actions in their lives and communities.

Upcoming Activities: Recruitment for SAFAR began in February 2024. Workshops are scheduled for April, offering participants a space to hone their skills and delve into the project's themes. The culmination of this journey will be witnessed in June 2024 when SAFAR performances are presented to the public, inviting engagement and dialogue. We eagerly anticipate the impact and positive change SAFAR will inspire in our community and beyond.

Join us to watch and participate in four interactive performances by Project SAFAR, developed by a talented group of participants from diverse social, geographical, and professional backgrounds.

The events are free and open to everyone. Choose a performance time that suits you and reserve your seat through the following links:

Toronto Performance:

Date: Saturday, May 18, 3:00 PM

Venue: Friends House, 60 Lowther Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1C7

Reserve your seat: https://tinyurl.com/yzjhk2da

Etobicoke Performance:

Date: Saturday, May 25, 3:30 PM

Venue: The Arab Community Centre of Toronto, 295 The West Mall Suite 200, Etobicoke, ON M9C 4Z4

Reserve your seat : https://tinyurl.com/yych2mcu

Scarborough Performance:

Date: Sunday, May 26, 3:00 PM

Venue: Unique Books Inc., 1182 Kennedy Rd, Scarborough, ON M1P 2L1

Reserve your seat : https://tinyurl.com/37um4yuf .