Culture

Language(s): Ara, subtitles: Eng

Summary/Historical Context

Al-Maydaan is an Omani tradition of poetic jousting that incorporates sung poetry and dance. The poems can be four to ten verses long, focussing on plays on words, double meanings and puzzles. They are performed within a strict call and response framework whereby a row of men faces a row of women and accompanying drummers rhythmically punctuate the poetic exchanges between participants. Functioning both as entertainment and as art, Al-Maydaan plays an important role in celebrations and social events in local communities.

on this subject: Nomination file / Dossier de candidature

Place/country: Sultanate of Oman,
Type: Documentary
Duration: 00:06:05
Publisher/producer: Ministry of Heritage and Culture- Sultanate of Oman,
Published in: 2009