Resistance Theater Festival Unveils ‘Nations’ Section to Foster Global Collaboration and Artistic Unity

The upcoming 20th International Resistance Theater Festival is set to make waves with its innovative new section titled “Nations,” aimed at enhancing the participation of international theater groups in Iran. This initiative seeks to showcase selected performances abroad, fostering cultural exchange and artistic collaboration.

During a recent press conference at the Aerospace National Park in Tehran, Mohammad Kazemtabar, the festival’s secretary, elaborated on the festival’s vision and its meaningful location choice. Kazemtabar stated, “The Aerospace National Park was chosen because it symbolizes the 12-day war waged by the Zionist regime against our beloved Iran. This war demonstrated the nation’s strength and the sacrifices of our soldiers and people more than ever before. This site represents the dignity and victory of our armed forces and the nation, and we wanted to remind everyone of this fact at the beginning of the festival.”

He further explained, “Another reason for selecting this location was to honor Martyr Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the commander of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force. We hope to produce a distinguished theatrical production depicting his life.”

This year’s festival theme draws inspiration from the heroic resilience displayed during the 12-day war, with Kazemtabar emphasizing the desire to reflect the bravery of that period through theatrical art. “Consequently, the festival’s themes prominently feature the 12-day war,” he added.

New Initiatives at the Festival

In an effort to enrich the festival’s offerings, a new playwriting section titled “12” has been introduced. This section encourages playwrights to craft narratives that center on:

• Ordinary people affected by the war
• Brave soldiers who fought valiantly
• Martyrs whose sacrifices are honored

A special award will be presented for the best stage and street theater productions that revolve around the themes of the 12-day war, promoting creative storytelling and artistic expression.

Additionally, the Horizon of Resistance section will feature street theater and playwriting workshops aimed at nurturing emerging artists and uncovering new talent. Productions developed in this section will first be showcased in the home provinces of the participating groups before advancing to the main festival.

Expanding Participation and Audience Engagement

Reflecting on the success of last year’s festival, Kazemtabar noted that 15 provinces contributed to stage theater performances, while 18 provinces were involved in street theater, totaling the participation of 23 provinces. He stated, “Our goal this year is to expand the Horizon of Resistance section and host more provinces across Iran.”

The festival’s popularity is evident, as Kazemtabar shared that last year’s event attracted nearly 27,000 spectators for stage performances, with overall attendance nearing 60,000. “We aim to increase this number further this year,” he confirmed.

He also emphasized the need for more theatrical works that honor aerospace martyrs and missile heroes, reflecting on their crucial roles in Iran’s history.

A Special Tribute

A poignant moment during the event was the tribute to Martyr Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, with his son, Alireza Hajizadeh, participating in the ceremony. A portrait of the martyr was presented on behalf of the festival organizing committee, serving as a heartfelt homage to his memory.

The press conference concluded with the unveiling of the poster for the 20th Resistance Theater Festival, generating excitement among attendees and signaling the festival’s upcoming activities.

Organized by the Theater of Revolution and Sacred Defense Association in collaboration with the Cultural Foundation for Revayat-e Fat’h, the festival is slated to take place in Tehran and various cities across Iran during the Sacred Defense Week, from September 22 to 29, 2026.

The 20th International Resistance Theater Festival promises to be a grand celebration of art and culture, welcoming audiences and artists from across the nation, while highlighting the rich history and resilience of the Iranian people.