Postponement of 5th edition of SITFY because of coronavirus

CAIRO – 17 March 2020: The management of Sharm El-Sheikh International Theatre Festival for Youth announced the postponement of the fifth edition until further notice amid fears of coronavirus outbreak in Egypt.


This decision came following the suspension of schools and universities, and in accordance with the policy of the Egyptian government and the instructions of the Council of Ministers, which stipulate taking all precautionary measures to confront coronavirus "COVID-19" such as avoiding large gatherings and movement between governorates.

The decision was taken after consultations with the relevant authorities, Minister of Culture Ines Abdel Dayem and Southern Sinai Governor Khaled Fouda, who emphasized the necessity of preserving the safety and security of the Egyptian citizens.

"We have exerted extensive efforts to launch the fifth edition of SITFY and finished all the preparations. We have contacted all the theatrical groups; however, the spread of Coronavirus all over the world is the main reason behind the postponement of the fifth edition of SITFY. Thanks a million for your understanding. We hope to be back on track as soon as possible in order to continue our work with all the theatrical groups and experts. SITFY's Higher Committee highly appreciates each and every one who has accomplished his/her duties to the fullest," SITFY's President Mazen el-Gharabawy declared.

The fifth edition of SITFY was planned to bear the name of legendary actress Sanaa Gamil. Moreover, SITFY planned to dedicate the authorship Award to late professor and writer Ahmed Sakhsoukh, who presented various theatrical and critical writings to the Egyptian and Arab theatre.

Egyptian veteran actress, Samiha Ayoub, has been appointed as the honorary president of SITFY, while veteran actor Mohamed Sobhy was appointed as head of the higher committee of SITFY, and Egyptian actor Tarek Sabri was appointed as the executive director. SITFY is managed by Ingy el-Bestawy and actor Mohsen Mansour supervises the festival's workshops.

SITFY is held under the sponsorship of the minister of culture, South Sinai governor, Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhi, Minister of Tourism Khaled al-Anany, and Chairman of the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Board Ahmed Youssef.