A Perspective on the Progress of the Theatre of Saad al-Faraj, with Emphasis on Censorship in Kuwait and the challenged Play Custom is Second Nature

This study is an examination of the life and work Kuwaiti dramatist Saad al-Faraj (1938 - ). al-Faraj’s name virtually unknown in West – particularly English-speaking West, although he well known Arab World. Only one academic any significance has appeared Arabic on this eminent fascinating dramatist, who was honoured by NCCAL Theatre Institute at end his life. do not attempt to be comprehensive but focus particular stages career. is, therefore, only see whole. To so it combines account which seeks comprehend various forces that shaped thinking with analysis main dramatic work. The concentrates years following trauma inflicted world catastrophe defeat June 1967. Al-Faraj’s career can divided into two phases: immature plays young manhood; late period ‘Epic theatre’, when Nasrism politics were factor shaping drama. places historical sociocultural context provides a brief background explaining literary theatrical traditions influenced activity as dramatist. His then examined turn play Custom Second Nature analysed accordance study. means special attention given period, no significant neglected. aims trace trajectory development using variety sources: themselves, own journalism critical writings, interviews him, close friends colleagues, addition number journals, books articles, some contain important shed light thought ways working. Conclusions will drawn but, more importantly, questions raised, hoped scholars consider playwright subject meriting further research.