Palestinian Artists: The Stones and Oranges of Palestine Have a History Too Profound to Be Distorted by Occupiers
The play “Stones and Oranges” had its fourth showing in London last Saturday. This theatrical performance, depicting the occupation of Palestine, featured two Palestinian artists who have staged the play in numerous cities worldwide, with London not being the final stop. Their mission is to convey the truth to audiences around the globe.
“We chose the name ‘Stones and Oranges’ to emphasize that Palestine’s history cannot be distorted by the Israeli occupier. The history of Palestine’s stones and oranges predates the aggressor on our land,” explained actor Edward Muallem, who portrayed an Israeli settler in the play.
“AL-Arab in UK” website met with actors Edward Muallem and Iman Aoun during special coverage of the play’s performance in Camden, central London. Muallem noted that this fourth tour of the play included ten performances in various cities, including Liverpool, Oxford, and London.
Muallem added, “When the ill-fated Balfour Declaration was issued, the Zionists were told to go to Palestine, a land without people. However, in 1917, Palestine was one of the largest exporters of oranges to Europe and the world, while importing cars from Germany. These facts are evident and clear, except to those who choose to ignore them.”
Muallem further stated, “At the end of the play, I highlighted to the audience the current situation in Gaza. My role illustrates the ultimate Zionist goal, which is the displacement of Palestinians. This aim is pursued through systematic killings of Gaza’s residents, seeking to make Palestinians refugees in their own land for the umpteenth time.”
Ashtar Theatre
Actress Iman Aoun shared that the play began in Ramallah, Palestine, and that audiences have been engaged with its narrative wherever it has been performed. She mentioned that the venue was packed, with tickets sold out weeks in advance, and that there were numerous side discussions between the artists and the audience after the show.
Aoun explained, “The audience often asked us, ‘What next? Now that we know the truth about the injustice against Palestinians, what can we do or contribute?’ Many told us they participate in demonstrations, with some having come directly from a large protest, and they seek to do more.”
Aoun added, “Culture is an integral part of the Palestinian struggle, each aspect complementing the other. We urge people to increase their knowledge and awareness of the Palestinian cause and to pressure the British government and other governments worldwide. Public pressure is also crucial and should not be overlooked. I noticed that the audience is eager to hear our stories, so let’s raise their awareness and harness their energy.”
It is worth noting that Ashtar Theatre, which organizes these plays and events, was established in Jerusalem in 1991 and later moved to Ramallah in the West Bank due to the difficulties Palestinians face traveling from the West Bank to Jerusalem. The theatre operates a project aimed at using drama and theatre to train new generations of Palestinian artists, giving a voice to the oppressed.
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