Tracing back in time to the good old days when life was much slower, simpler, and perhaps more meaningful, the “El-Taybeen” troupe revives nostalgic scenes from the past by embodying traditional customs, inherited rituals and cultural art of their beloved homeland. “We are a group of family members and friends who have invested our energy into a non-profit initiative that aims to strengthen social cohesion and national identity and promote our cultural heritage,” said Eman El-Sharrah, head of the troupe.

According to Sharrah, the troupe’s name is inspired by a popular Arabic saying, “Kind people are gone,” where it is widely believed that kindness only belonged to our grandparents and ancestors. So, through the cherished memory of these old people, Sharrah started this troupe in the hope of restoring the lost kindness in the present world again.

She highlights the main goals of the troupe are to leave a real impact on future generations by helping them stay more connected with their roots and strongly hold onto their inherited societal values, customs and traditions that reflect their distinctive nomadic Arabic origins. “We consider ourselves a reflection of the Kuwaiti family, society and the entire nation that is keen to spread the values embedded in our roots and adopt them for leading a better future for our country,” Sharrah noted.

A behind the scenes photo of one of the troupe's TV shows.

A man holds an old gas bulb. - All photos from the troupe's shows

A man practicing the traditional craft of breaking and selling ice.

A woman holds a basket of Girgian, a mix of candies and sweets.

Derbaha, an old toy of a tyre that children used to play with in the past.

Representation of an old neighborhood in Kuwait.

Representation of an old store in Kuwait.

A woman serves jameed, traditional Kuwaiti food.

A woman prepares coffee and tea in the traditional way.

Women practice traditional handcrafts.

A woman carrying a bundle on her head is seen with a girl wearing traditional Kuwaiti dress.

A board displays the name of the El-Taybeen troupe.

Since its beginnings in 2018, the troupe has been spreading cultural and heritage awareness through active participation in many national events inside Kuwait, collaborating with various ministries and entities, including universities such as Kuwait University, heritage museums such as Beit Othman, and historical districts such as Souq Mubarakiya. On a global level, the troupe has represented Kuwait in national celebrations undertaken in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, the troupe has been featured in popular TV and radio shows, particularly during special seasons such as Ramadan.

El-Taybeen’s efforts have even extended to socially responsible initiatives by taking part in charitable events, holding shows in old age homes and other organizations for the disabled, reflecting a holistic approach to community engagement. “Our purpose is to give back to our homeland, as we believe it’s time for every individual to realize that they should have an active role in fostering growth in all aspects of society,” Sharrah noted.

Whoever observes the steps taken by the troupe and notices their concern in capturing the essence of the country in all the little details of their shows will know that this group of people isn’t just working to keep themselves busy, but is genuinely aiming to leave an unforgettable message for the world, promoting the values of unconditional love and loyalty towards Kuwait.