‘Halawes’ (Hallucinations), a silent adaptation of William Shakespeare's ‘The Merchant of Venice’, by Egyptian director Mohamed Abdalla, will premiere at Al-Hanager Theatre on 27 August, after years of planning and long months of rehearsals.

“It was like a dream that came to me 12 years ago. It was not an easy journey. I am excited it is finally coming to fruition after eight months of rehearsals,” said the director, adding that his no-dialogue version of the classical play focuses on human relationships and emotions of friendship, love, jealousy and hate “that could exist within one circle of conflict.”

The cast includes Omar Ezz, Abdallah Sultan, Abdulrahman Al-Qadi, Nesma Adel, Moatassem Shaaban, Jeorj Fawzi, Mustafa Hazeen, Reem Essam and Amira Ibrahim. The cast was trained by Abdullah with the assistance of Mostafa Hozayen and Ahmed (Oscar) Najdi.

“We focus on the most expressive body language. Some of the cast had not been in mime theatre before. We merge different aspects of theatre schools to present a rich theatre experience,” Abdalla added.

Among the crew are assistant director Marwa Hassan, executive director Ahmed Reda with décor designed by Amr Abdullah and lighting designed by Abu Bakr Al-Sharif. Amira Saber is the stylist of the show while Mohamed ‘Bkkar’ Fawzy designed the masks and make-up.

Mixed by Youssra Tawfik, the music of the show is selected and prepared by Abdalla and will be under the charge of sound executive Omar ‘Chicoo’ Shoqier.

“I faced many obstacles along the way and I was able to pass them. I am hoping I could deliver my message to all mime theatre artists in Egypt, telling them to continue the road without despair,” the director concluded.

‘Halawes’ will be performed at Al-Hanager Theatre every day at 8pm for 15 nights starting Friday.