The Diriyah Gate Development Authority has announced the conclusion of the first-of-its-kind initiative in the Kingdom "Diriyah, Home of the Ardha". The initiative aimed to enhance the presence of this traditional art amongst the new Saudi generations. The initiative consisted of training workshops facilitated by the leader of the Diriyah Ardha Dance Group Mr. Saleh Al Abdul Wahid. One-Hundred participants where then nominated to proceed to the next stage. The activities were held in Prince Thunayan bin Saud Palace in the historic At-Turaif neighborhood. Being a men-only traditional dance, the Ardha initiative aimed to spread awareness around this form of performing art and encourage Saudi youth from age 8 to 16 to learn more about their heritage and feel proud of their history and traditions. Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority honored the six winners chosen by the judging panel as the best performers of the Saudi Ardha in the competition. The winners were, Abdul Elah Al Ghuwainim, Mansour bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Muhannad Al Marshood, Abdul Malik Al Hadidi, Faisal bin Salama and Abdulaziz Al Murshid. He also thanked the judging panel comprised of Mr. Saleh Al Abdul Wahid, Mr. Saad Al Thunayan and Mr. Faisal Al Ghuwainim for their role and efforts during the competition. This initiative forms part of the efforts made by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority and its Department of Culture and Heritage to launch such initiatives that reflect the importance of preserving our Saudi heritage.
