The Rise of Kahina
Presented by Shahibins Theatre and Culturama
What if the person you were born to fight became the only one who could truly see you?
The Rise of Kahina is inspired by the legendary Amazigh Queen Dihya who defied an Empire.
After years in exile, DIHYA is summoned home by her father to defend a kingdom on the brink of collapse. When he falls in battle, she inherits more than a crown - she inherits centuries of resistance.
Opposing her is MALIK, a powerful general leading the advance of a dynasty determined to conquer her land.
QUEEN DIHYA stands her ground. She fights. She resists. Until she is captured.
Now, the battlefield changes. Behind closed doors, far from the clash of armies, two enemies are forced into an impossible closeness.
A glance lingers. Silence speaks. Truths long buried begin to surface.
As enemies become confidants and certainty gives way to doubt, DIHYA and MALIK must choose between the destiny that family and duty expect of them...and the future their hearts begin to imagine.
What if the greatest battle was never fought on the battlefield… but within the human heart?
Blending Shakespearean drama with the rich heritage of North Africa, The Rise of Kahina explores love, power, duty and the legacies we inherit – and what happens when we dare to challenge them.
Press & audience response
"A story of love and peace, a positive play that makes you want to dream' — Beur FM Radio
“Outstanding artistic direction.” — Kim L.
“A moment suspended in time.” — Noel
“The writing, the sets, the music, the performances… everything keeps us on the edge of our seats.” — Maryse A.
“Majestic.” — Claire M.
Nora Elyasmino & Samy Kraiem
Shaped by epic visual imagery
A score by Safy Boutella
Production contact:
shahibinstheatre
gmail.com
Thursday 18 to Saturday 20 March 2027 - 7:30pm