Ashfan Family Play

The idea of ​​the play revolves around the life of Ashfan and his family, including characters such as Boutabar, Ghamran, Umm Harib, and Harib, who interacted with Ashfan in the original series. While the play follows the same story line that reflected aspects of social life in the Emirates in that era, it incorporates new developments from our contemporary reality, and highlights the social challenges that society faces today, such as the phenomenon of marriage (and fashionistas) that neglect traditional values.

In this work, Harib, Ashhafan’s son in the series, plays a prominent role with his sons in the play, as they form a bridge between ancient and modern generations and traditions. Through the interaction between them and the rest of the characters, some of the social challenges facing society today are reviewed, such as the impact of social media on social values ​​and customs, which adds a modern character to the theatrical work.

One of the innovative ideas in this play is the use of television screen technology on the stage, where “Ashhafan” (whose role was played by Sultan Al-Shaer, may God have mercy on him) appears during specific periods of the show to connect the scenes. Across the screen, Ashfahan utters some of the famous lines he made famous in the original series

To serve as a voice of wisdom and heritage in this work, and to enhance the connection between the past and the present in the theatrical context. This element will add a kind of nostalgia for the past, and give the audience an opportunity to remember the character of Ashfahan, which they were associated with in television work.

What also distinguishes this theatrical work is the Zayed Higher Organization’s sponsorship of People of Determination, which seeks, through its support of the play, to achieve two main goals. The first is to involve people of determination in theatrical work, and enable them to express themselves through the performing arts. Participating in this theatrical work gives people of determination the opportunity to interact with the artistic community and contribute to reviving the Emirati artistic heritage.

The second is to revive Emirati theater by presenting work that carries a heritage character and at the same time discusses modern issues that affect Emirati society. This initiative from the Zayed Higher Organization highlights its interest in providing meaningful artistic content that includes everyone and enhances the value of community integration through the arts.

The work takes on a comedic character, a type of purposeful comedy that presents deep social messages in a light and attractive style. Through the funny situations that emerge from the characters’ interaction with each other, important topics are addressed such as marriage and the negatives of the “fashionista” on Emirati society, especially in terms of traditions and customs. The social message here is to remind the public of the importance of balancing tradition and modernity, and adhering to values ​​that enhance family and community stability.

One of the primary goals of this work is to highlight the artistic legacy of the original series that was filmed in 1978. By reviving the characters and story, the play seeks to honor the artists who contributed to shaping the artistic memory of Emirati society. The play also provides an opportunity for new generations to get to know these characters and the values ​​they represented.

In the end, the play “The Ashhafan Family” is not just a comedy, but rather an integrated artistic experience that combines ancient traditions with contemporary reality, and highlights the importance of community integration through the arts, to provide meaningful content that combines entertainment and awareness.

By car: Take Al Ain Rd and Shk. Maktoum Bin Rashid Rd, followed by Al Aghsan St, Shk. Maktoum Bin Rashid Rd, and Al Ri'ayah St to reach your destination.  

By public transportation: Take buses 405 and 404 to Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Main Entrance and have a short walk from there.   

By taxi: You can easily find taxis or ride-hailing apps to reach your destination.