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ShareYoung people in Kuwait are increasingly turning to theater as a platform to showcase their talents and creativity, making stage performances a rising trend in the local arts scene. In an interview with young actors who recently starred in the Shakespearean-inspired play Children of the Time Machine, Kuwait Times explored how their experience allowed them to take on complex roles, refine their acting skills, and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Under the spotlights of Yarmouk Cultural Center’s stage, the play — directed by Hamad Al-Jenaie and co-written by Nader Abdullah — was more than just a performance; it was a journey of creativity, dedication, and passion. Al-Jenaie saw Children of the Time Machine as more than a spectacle, describing it as a deeply human story about resilience, connection, and the power of choice.
“Bringing this vision to the stage has been a true testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and resilience,” Al-Jenaie told Kuwait Times. “Each actor brought a unique energy to their role, and my goal was to guide them in finding authenticity and connection within their performances. There were moments of deep discovery during rehearsals, where a subtle change in movement or a shift in delivery transformed a scene entirely.”
Beyond its performances and elaborate production, Children of the Time Machine carried a message that resonated with its audience. “This play is more than just a story about time travel,” Al-Jenaie explained. “At its heart, it’s about the bonds that hold us together, the courage to face the unknown, and the hope for a better future. It reminds us that no matter the era or circumstance, human connection and resilience endure.”
The production required not only strong acting but also seamless transitions between historical periods, demanding that the cast embody different eras with precision and emotion. Essa Haitham, who played the enigmatic Aurion, found the role both challenging and rewarding. “Playing Aurion was a fascinating experience that helped me analyze and understand the depth of changing characters,” he said. “The best part was reuniting with my colleagues and our mentor, Al-Jenaie. It sparked a journey that will always remind us of how we traveled through time.”
Behind the scenes, the crew worked tirelessly to craft intricate sets and ensure the audience felt every shift in time. For Nader Abdullah — who not only co-wrote the script but also played Dr Elias Franklin — seeing the play come to life was a defining moment. “I got to see new actors develop their talents, and together we put on a wonderfully entertaining show,” he said. “The best part for me was witnessing the script I poured countless hours into being brought to life by the cast.”
Ali Abdullah, who took on the role of the formidable Vargak, embraced the character’s complexity. “Vargak is not just about personifying power; it’s about discovering the depth that makes him unforgettable,” he said. “A big thank you to Al-Jenaie, the cast, and the crew for their hard work and dedication. The sky is the limit!” Kerem, who played Howard Franklin, carried the weight of portraying one of the play’s central figures.
“I had doubts at first, thinking I wouldn’t do justice to this role,” he admitted. “But I was determined to prove those who underestimated me wrong. As an underage theater actor, I didn’t want to be taken lightly because of stereotypes about my age. This last performance was the best I have ever given, thanks to my incredible castmates who always supported me. No matter our ages or backgrounds, we trusted each other and became a family.” As the curtain fell and the audience erupted in applause, it was clear that Children of the Time Machine had done more than entertain — it had left a lasting impact. It was a production that, like time itself, would be remembered long after the final bow.
