One of Fathiya El-Assal's most famous works, Women's Prison, explores imprisoned women's struggles and emotional experiences, delving into their struggles, relationships, and the harsh realities they face in a patriarchal society.
"The play comprises a plethora of women prisoners who advocate political protests and the restructuring of state institutions being part of the overall power structure under which they exist. The playwright integrates polyphonic voices from different social categories to give her fragmented characters an opportunity for articulation and self-representation," analyzes Mahmoud El Bagoury.
El-Assal's play inspired the 2014 Egyptian TV series Segn El-Nesa, adapted by Mariam Naoum and directed by Kamla Abouzekri, which aired during Ramadan that year.
Naoum expanded El-Assal’s original play by adding additional events, diversifying the characters, and increasing the net of the relationships.
Known for being a staunch advocate of women's rights, El-Assal died shortly before the TV series screening.
Segn El-Nesa, presented by the Modern Theatre troupe, will be hosted at the Al-Salam Theatre stage.
The play is directed by Youssef Morad and includes large music and choreography segments with compositions by Mohamed Ezzat.
It will feature Haidi Abdelkhalek, Hanady Abdelkhalek, Sherihan El-Shazly, Nashwa Hassan, Aya Abu-Zeid, Safy Fahmy, Doaa El-Zeidi, Randa Gamal, Layla Magdy, Lily Mourad, Geni Atwa, Irini Magdy, Walaa El-Gendy, and Ikrami Waziry.
Segn El-Nesa will premiere on 31 March (the second day of Eid) at 9 PM.
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