« In the Belly of the Whale » (Fi batn el hout, Arabic title), the very first theatrical production between Tunisia and Croatia, written and directed by Marwa Manai, is the result of a collaboration between the Tunisian National Theatre (TNT) and the Croatian National Theatre of Rijeka. The first performances of this play are scheduled for Friday, January 24, and Saturday, January 25, at 7:00 PM, and Sunday, January 26, at 5:00 PM, at the Le Dème Art Theater in Tunis.
This « profoundly human » creation promises to take the audience on a poetic reflection on the quest to overcome barriers, whether physical, mental, or spiritual, as mentioned in the press release.
Marwa Manai was inspired by contemporary authors such as Iva Papić, Dorotea Kovačević, Samia El Amami, and Mouna Ben Haj Zekri. These literary contributions provide a diversity of perspectives to the play, blending intimate and universal stories about the desire to venture into the unknown. On stage, a cosmopolitan team brings the characters to life: Sonia Zarg Ayouns, Nadia Belha, Thawab Aidoudi, Alam Barskat, Mario Jovev, Serena Ferraiuolo, and Edi Čelić, united around a creation designed as an experience, a bridge between cultures, and an invitation to dive into a theatrical journey exploring the eternal human quest for freedom and transcendence.
The play’s synopsis raises existential questions: « Between yesterday, today, and tomorrow, and eternity, humans have always sought to break through barriers. They have dug tunnels, built bridges, erected ships and airplanes, and even defied space, but there remains one barrier to cross, and it is but a thread. »
Combining writing, direction, and pedagogy, Marwa Manai, known for her artistic boldness and academic commitment, continues to push the boundaries of modern theater. With works such as Untitled and her interactive project Ancra-je, she explores complex themes such as identity, resilience, and human interconnectedness.
