Soha Khan: Leading Saudi Arabia’s Theatre Revolution

Theatre in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and at the heart of this shift is Soha Khan, a trailblazing theatre producer whose work bridges cultural tradition and global creativity. From her early days as the only Saudi female theatre coordinator at the King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra) to establishing her own production company, Soha has played a pivotal role in shaping Saudi Arabia's burgeoning theatre scene. Her journey reflects not only her passion for the art form but also the broader evolution of Saudi Arabia's cultural landscape.

Q: How Did Your Passion for Theatre First Begin, and What Keeps You Inspired Today?
A: My first professional encounter with theatre was in 2010 when I joined the King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran as an Event Theatre Coordinator. It was love at first sight. At the time, I had just returned from the United States after completing my first master’s degree, and I was the only Saudi female on Ithra’s theatre team—a role I proudly held for five years.

During my time at Ithra, I immersed myself in the world of theatre, diving into its history, researching, and learning techniques to enhance my skills. In my fourth year, I was sent to the UK for training, where I collaborated with a Youth Arts Organization, worked on staging performances, and partnered with a creative events agency. Out of curiosity, I applied for a master’s degree in creative production. Though I initially didn’t intend to pursue it further, the slow pace of progress at Ithra upon my return convinced me to resign and dedicate myself fully to theatre production.

Q: London Boasts a World-Famous Theatre Scene. How Did Your Time There Shape Your Perspective on the Art?
A: My time in London was an exciting chapter in my career. While working at Ithra, I was involved in programming cultural events and managing a 1,000-seat theatre for the Saudi Aramco Cultural Program. One of my proudest moments was developing a creative concept for a Cirque du Soleil show commissioned by Ithra in 2011.

In London, I trained with theatre companies like the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience. This time cemented my passion for producing theatre. Over the next five years, I produced six shows, founded my own production company, and became a member of StageOne, an organization supporting young producers in commercial theatre. These experiences not only refined my craft but also gave me the confidence to advise theatre businesses in both the UK and Saudi Arabia.

Q: Falla Factory Is Dedicated to Theatre Production. Could You Share More About the Range of Services Your Company Offers?
A: Falla Factory is Saudi Arabia’s first dedicated theatre production company, and we take pride in offering specialized services. We focus on content development, theatrical productions, and training programs that nurture local talent. While other companies in the region may include theatre as part of their portfolio, Falla Factory is exclusively devoted to this art form, ensuring a level of focus and expertise that sets us apart.

Q: What’s Your Process for Selecting Plays for Saudi Audiences, Especially When Considering Cultural and Religious Sensitivities?
A: Returning to Saudi Arabia wasn’t part of my original plan, but the establishment of the Theatre Authority under the Ministry of Culture presented an exciting opportunity. Setting up a theatre production company here is risky, but I thrive on challenges as an entrepreneur.

When selecting plays, I prioritize stories that resonate with Saudi audiences. These can be original works or adaptations of international productions. As a commercial producer, my focus is on creating shows that people want to see and are willing to buy tickets for. I also host workshops with directors and writers to refine concepts, ensuring the content aligns with both cultural expectations and artistic quality.

Q: Your Company Recently Debuted Murder at the Last Sip Cafe in Riyadh. What Inspired This Production, and How Was It Received?
A: This Saudi murder mystery dinner theatre production premiered at a unique venue in the King Abdullah Financial District. The concept evolved from our earlier co-production with Pursued by a Bear in Dubai, titled Murder at the Speakeasy, which was set aboard the QE2. The Riyadh audience’s response has been incredibly encouraging, showcasing the growing appetite for innovative theatrical experiences in the Kingdom.

Q: What’s Captivated Saudi Audiences About Theatre So Far?
A: It’s still early days for theatre in Saudi Arabia, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive. For community theatre makers who have been active for years, this is a transformative moment. With the Ministry of Culture now promoting theatre and offering scholarships for aspiring talents to study abroad, the potential for growth is immense. This support is helping to nurture a new generation of theatre professionals.

Q: How Do You Decide Which Projects to Bring to Life?
A: It depends on the type of project. For commissioned productions, I collaborate closely with clients to bring their vision to life. For independent projects, I evaluate the creative and commercial potential: Can it sell? Can I secure funding? If a concept excites me, I organize workshops with directors and writers to refine the idea.

Producing is often misunderstood in this region. It’s not just about logistics; it’s about nurturing ideas and helping creatives bring their visions to life. As I often say, “Producers make the magic happen.”

Q: Are There Talent Agencies Supporting Actors in Saudi Arabia?
A: Most Saudi actors are freelancers since casting agencies are not yet well-established here. My priority is always to cast Saudi talent first, but if a role requires it, I open casting calls on social media and collaborate with local art societies. This approach has helped us discover and work with some truly remarkable talent.

Q: Where Is the Future of Theatre Headed in Saudi Arabia?
A: It is still too early to make definitive predictions, but initiatives like the launch of the National Theatre are incredibly promising. This initiative will create new career opportunities and lay the foundation for a thriving theatre industry in Saudi Arabia. With continued support, the future looks bright.

About Soha Khan

Soha Khan is a Saudi theatre producer and entrepreneur, widely recognized for her contributions to the Kingdom's growing performing arts industry. She began her career at Ithra, where she developed a deep appreciation for theatre production and cultural programming. Her experiences abroad, including training with prestigious theatre organizations in the UK, honed her skills and fueled her ambition to establish Falla Factory, Saudi Arabia’s first dedicated theatre production company. Today, Soha is at the forefront of creating theatre that resonates with Saudi audiences while elevating the Kingdom’s presence on the global cultural stage.

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