DUBAI — The Gulf Film Festival (GFF) today announced the honoree of the 2013 festival would be Kuwaiti stage and film actor, writer and arts administrator Mohammed Jaber, a fixture of the artistic scene in Kuwait and the wider GCC for over 50 years. Jaber performed the lead role in the touching 2012 GFF film “Al Salhiyah,” directed by Kuwaiti filmmaker Sadeq Behbehani, which follows the life of an aging businessman who never ceases to pay tribute to his deceased wife. Masoud Amralla Al Ali, GFF Director, said: “Before the unprecedented rise in cinematic activity that we are currently seeing in the Gulf, there were dedicated artists such as Mohamed Jaber who laid the foundation we now build upon with the GFF. “Versed in writing and acting in both theater and television, forming and running thriving theater companies, this veteran and his colleagues entertained generations of delighted fans in the GCC. Jaber's long career speaks to his passion for the work and his incredible dedication to his craft. Honoring this legendary actor at GFF this year is a small token of “our gratitude for the years that Mohammed filled with stories that brought so much delight to us here in the GCC—stories that were funny, human and uniquely Khaleeji.” Jaber was touched and pleased at the news that he would receive the award. He said: “I have received with great joy and pleasure your gracious invitation to the Gulf Film Festival in Dubai. “This honor reflects the depth of your faith in my life's work and artistic vision, and your distinguished recognition motivates me to continue to work and to reach out to my fellow artists throughout the region. “Without your continued support and that of people from around the Gulf, I wouldn't have achieved the level of success I have been fortunate to enjoy over the years. “I hope that the festival's support for GCC artists will motivate them to follow their passion and pursue a career in the arts.” Jaber's TV career began in 1961, when he played his first TV role opposite the late, beloved comedic actor Mohammed Al Nashmi. His acting career ran parallel to his television writing activities, at first with Kuwait Broadcasting and later for other GCC networks. As a TV actor, Jaber has had memorable roles in several Kuwaiti and Gulf dramas since the 1960's, performing alongside the GCC's best acting talents. Highlights of his television career include remarkable programs such as ‘Muthakarat Bu Elewee,' and a plethora of TV dramas including “Ajlah wa Amlah,” “Dars Khosoosi,” “Zawaj Bel Computer,” “Bu Al Fuloos,” “Eyal Bu Salim,” “Omr Al Shaga,” “Saher Al leel” and “Jaltham wa Metha.” Jaber is equally distinguished in the theater. His first theatrical appearance was in the play “Eghnam Zamanak,” in which he was duly recognized for his brilliant performance as Alaidroosa, followed by similar acclaim for his work in “Al Zarzoor” and “Al Bambara.” Dedicated to nurturing the theater scene in Kuwait, Jaber acted as an administrator of the Arab Theater Band until 1975, when he established “Free Theater” with fellow artists A'Eshah Ibrahim, Abdulaziz Al Nmsh, Abdullah Kherbet, Abdullah Al Musalam, and Abdulaziz Al Fahd. Jaber will be honored on the opening night of the sixth edition of the Gulf Film Festival on April 11. GFF offers the very best in cinema from around the GCC region. For schedules, venues and ticket prices, please consult the Festival website on: www.gulffilmfest.com. — SG
