Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has begun preparations to stage ‘When Words Fall Silent’, a theatrical production that brings together art and human connection to celebrate the values of cooperation, compassion and meaningful communication. The production reflects the Authority’s commitment to harnessing the arts to build awareness and foster understanding, tolerance and acceptance, while creating an inspiring environment that enables children to discover their potential, express themselves and develop their skills through interactive artistic experiences that enrich their imagination and broaden their horizons. These efforts contribute to Dubai’s vibrant cultural movement and reinforce its position as a global centre for the creative economy.

Taking place on 20 and 21 October, ‘When Words Fall Silent’ is the result of a collaboration between Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children and Rashid Centre for People of Determination, reflecting Dubai Culture’s commitment to advancing inclusion and creating opportunities for People of Determination to actively contribute to the cultural and creative landscape. The production uses movement and visual expression to create an immersive human experience, demonstrating how communication can transcend the spoken word.

Ahlam Al Bannai, Director of Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, affirmed that the production reflects Dubai Culture’s responsibilities and sectoral priorities to harness the arts as a universal language capable of instilling positive values in children, supporting their personal development, strengthening their confidence and nurturing their creative abilities. She said: “Theatre has an exceptional ability to introduce meaningful values to children through engaging experiences that resonate with them and remain in their memories. Through ‘When Words Fall Silent’, we seek to deepen their understanding of meaningful communication and acceptance, while highlighting the importance of fostering a culture of cooperation and respect across society. These are values we are committed to nurturing among younger generations.”

Al Bannai added: “The collaboration with Rashid Centre for People of Determination reflects our belief in creativity as an inclusive space that celebrates diversity, where everyone has the right to express themselves and contribute to inspiring cultural experiences that enrich society and strengthen social cohesion.”

The concept of the theatrical script is by Alaa Hammad, and written and directed by Najib Alhabal and Nasra Al Mamari, the play unfolds in the ‘Village of Cubes,’ where each character embodies a positive human value, including love, respect, cooperation, hope, peace and responsibility, yet struggles to share these values with others. When the sound suddenly disappears, the characters face a new challenge and must find alternative ways to connect through gestures, movement, and images. As the story develops, they discover that words alone are not enough, and that cooperation and teamwork can create meaning and build bridges of understanding.