Soha Khan: Leading Saudi Arabia’s Theatre Revolution

Soha Khan is a pioneering figure in Saudi Arabia's emerging theatre scene. From her early days as an event coordinator to establishing her own production company, she reflects on her journey, the evolving theatre industry, and the significance of World Theatre Day amid the challenges of the pandemic.

Q: How did you fall in love with the theatre?
A: My first professional encounter with theatre was in 2010 when I was hired by the King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran as an Event Theatre Coordinator. It was love at first sight. I had just returned from the US after finishing my first master’s degree. At that time, I was the only Saudi female on Ithra’s theatre team, a role I held for five years.

During my time there, I immersed myself in theatre—researching, reading about its history, and learning various techniques. In my fourth year, I was sent to the UK for training, where I worked with a Youth Arts Organization, gained hands-on experience staging performances, and collaborated with a creative events agency. Out of curiosity, I applied for a master’s degree in creative production. Although I didn’t think I would pursue it further, the slow pace of progress at Ithra upon my return convinced me to resign and pursue my passion for theatre production full-time.

Q: London is a city with a world-famous theatre scene. How did you experience your time there?
A: It was an exciting chapter. Through my work at Ithra, I began programming cultural events and managing a 1,000-seat theatre for the Saudi Aramco Cultural Program. A highlight was developing a creative concept for a Cirque du Soleilshow commissioned by Ithra in 2011.

While in London, I completed training with theatre companies like the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain. This experience solidified my passion for producing. Over the next five years, I produced six shows and founded my own production company. I also became a member of StageOne, an organization supporting young producers in commercial theatre. Since then, I’ve advised theatre businesses in the UK and Saudi Arabia.

Q: Falla Factory focuses on theatre production. What services does it provide?
A: Falla Factory is Saudi Arabia’s first dedicated theatre production company. We specialize in content developmentand theatrical productions, offering a level of focus and expertise that sets us apart. Other companies in the region may dabble in theatre, but Falla Factory is entirely devoted to the art form.

Q: Have you ever thought theatre could become a business in Saudi Arabia? How do you choose plays for Saudi audiences, considering cultural and religious factors?
A: Honestly, I never thought I’d return to Saudi Arabia. But with the establishment of a Theatre Authority under the Ministry of Culture, I saw an opportunity. Setting up a theatre production company here is risky, but as an entrepreneur, I thrive on challenges.

When choosing plays, I look for stories that resonate with Saudi audiences—whether newly written or adapted from international works. As a commercial producer, my priority is creating shows that people want to see and buy tickets for.

Q: Your company recently launched “Murder at the Last Sip Cafe” in Riyadh. Tell us about that.
A: This Saudi murder mystery dinner theatre production premiered at a venue in the King Abdullah Financial District. It’s a concept we first explored with “Murder at the Speakeasy,” a co-production with Pursued by a Bear in Dubai, set aboard the QE2.

Q: How has the Saudi audience responded to theatre so far?
A: It’s early days, but the response is encouraging. For community theatre makers active for years, this is a transformative moment. With the Ministry of Culture promoting theatre and offering scholarships to study abroad, there’s real potential for growth.

Q: How do you choose your projects?
A: It depends. For commissioned productions, I work with the client’s vision. For independent projects, I evaluate the concept’s creative and commercial viability. Can I sell it? Can I secure funding? If a project excites me, I host workshops with directors and writers to refine the concept.

Producing is a misunderstood role 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: Is there an agency for actors in Saudi Arabia?
A: Most Saudi actors are freelancers, as casting agencies are not yet established. I focus on casting Saudi talent first, but if the role requires, I open casting calls on social media and collaborate with art societies.

Q: What does the future of theatre in Saudi Arabia look like?
A: It’s too soon to predict, but steps like launching the National Theatre are promising. This initiative will create new career opportunities and lay the foundation for a thriving theatre industry in the Kingdom.

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