The performing arts
The performing arts are a symbolic expression of shared cultural values,
particularly in terms of aesthetics, beliefs and creativity.
They play a significant role time and time again in social and ritual life.
They are at the centre of many popular social events on important dates in
the cultural calendar and at key moments in the life of Iraqi communities
such as births, marriages or religious ceremonies.
The performing arts of yesterday and today are a fragile intangible heritage
in that they are constantly evolving and are highly receptive to all sorts
of cultural influences. In this way, they are also a valuable means of
reflecting changing cultural contexts and introducing new forms of
creativity.
The ‘Debkeh” in the north and the “Chobi” in the middle of IRAQ In their
many and various ways, they frequently give form to rich symbolism and
social values.
As living intangible heritage, however, they are often quite defenseless against the more adverse impacts of globalization which is
altering lifestyles and, in so doing, undermining the context in which these
traditions are practiced and maintained.
In this respect, it is vitally
important that the bearers of the knowledge, skills and techniques needed to
transmit these arts should be granted recognition and support in order to
perpetuate their traditions in their accustomed cultural contexts.
