7.30pm
Running time: 75 minutes, no interval
Age recommendation: 12+
Art27 Scotland's CULTURE = LIFE programme
The Horse of Jenin
Palestinian performer Alaa Shehada brings his signature blend of humour and heart to the stage in The Horse of Jenin — a powerful yet playful show that invites audiences to reflect, laugh, and connect.
At its core is the story of the Horse of Jenin, a sculpture built from the wreckage of Israeli invasions. For 20 years it stood in the centre of Jenin Camp as a symbol of resistance, imagination, and pride. In October 2023, it was destroyed by an Israeli bulldozer — but this performance is about what cannot be destroyed.
Shehada draws from his own memories of growing up under occupation, mixing comedy, personal stories, and cultural reflection to explore how creativity and humour help people hold onto their humanity.
This is not just a story of loss — it’s about resilience. About finding laughter in unexpected places. About how art connects us, heals us, and keeps history alive.
The Horse of Jenin speaks to the broader destruction of cultural heritage and the increasing threats to artistic freedom in Palestine. In this context, artistic expression becomes a form of resistance—a way to document truth, preserve identity, and inspire future generations.
The Horse of Jenin is part of CULTURE = LIFE, a bold new programme of Palestinian arts celebrating culture as an act of survival and expression. Through performance, storytelling, and connection, this event invites you to see Palestine through the eyes of those who live, create, and resist there every day.
Expect to laugh. Expect to reflect. Expect to leave changed.
Gallery
Tickets from £15.00*
Dates
Discounts
Tickets are pay what you decide
£0 No income and struggle to cover basic needs.
£5 Minimum income but can cover basic needs.
£10 Low income, student or in receipt of benefits.
£15 If you have a job and can maintain a safe and comfortable lifestyle.
Access
Capital Theatres aims to be accessible to all.
We are committed to making your visit to our theatres as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. All of our Front of House staff undergo disability awareness training and Dementia Friend Training and will be pleased to assist you should you require any information or help.
Complete our Access Form to book access discounts online. Access users can choose to receive 50% off the price of their ticket, and 50% off essential companion tickets, subject to availability.
More information about our venues and access at Capital Theatres
Credits
Alaa Shehada (b. 1991, Palestine) is an actor, comedian, and storyteller who uses humour to address themes of identity, resilience, and resistance. A graduate of The Freedom Theatre Acting School in Jenin, Alaa is a co-founder of the Palestine Comedy Club and a core member of Troupe Courage in Amsterdam. He is also a “Doctor-Clown” with Red Noses International, bringing laughter to those in need.
His work often reflects his experiences growing up in Jenin, and he blends storytelling, comedy, and social commentary to create performances that resonate globally. Alaa has performed internationally, offering audiences a unique perspective on Palestinian life through his dynamic and engaging shows.
Through his art, Alaa remains dedicated to preserving Palestinian voices, using the power of laughter and storytelling to challenge cultural erasure and inspire hope.
Credits
Written and performed by Alaa Shehada
Director: Katrien van Beurden and Thomas van Ouwerkerk
Comedy consultant/Co-writer: Sam Beale
Masks: Den Durand
Music: Remy van Kesteren, Khalil Al Batran
Dramaturgy: Maarten Bos
Designer: Roderick Bredenoord
Artistic Associate: Sacha Muller
Production Photography: Kamerich & Budwilowitz
Poster Photography: Dario&Misja photography
Poster Design: Buro Fritz
Trailer: David Koster
UK Producer: Qasim Salam
UK Technical Manager: Lily Woodford-Lewis
Special thanks to: Voordekunst, the donors of the crowdfunding, Jacqueline Kleijn, Hugo Keuzenkamp, Tjipke Bergsma, Nan van Houte, Lucas Hendricks.
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