SHARJAH, 27 November 2025
Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) marked a significant milestone in its regional outreach this month as Aiham AlSubaihi, representing the Recorded Media and Screen Acting Department, concluded a successful five-day engagement at the Lebanese International Short Film Festival – Hamra Days – in Beirut.
During the festival, SPAA showcased two student films, The Will and Tape and The Enemy Within, both of which received strong attention from audiences and industry professionals. The Will and Tape went on to win Best Student Film, earning the Academy notable recognition among Arab filmmakers and cultural institutions.
Across the festival’s programme, AlSubaihi participated in a series of panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and media engagements, including five interviews, one of which aired on Al Arabiya Lebanon. His contributions highlighted SPAA’s academic offerings, its facilities, and the Academy’s growing role in bridging education with the industry.
A panel on independent filmmaking, censorship, and creative freedom provided an opportunity to emphasise the UAE’s evolving support for artists and filmmakers. AlSubaihi underscored SPAA’s commitment to fostering meaningful storytelling rooted in the region’s realities.
The visit also strengthened the Academy’s network through productive discussions with directors, festival organisers, and cultural partners. Notable outcomes included new connections with Tiro Arts, the Lebanese National Theatre, AFLAMNAH, and several Arab filmmakers interested in future collaborations, workshops, or student mentorship.
SPAA noted that the trip has enhanced its visibility in the Arab creative landscape, positioning the Academy as an active contributor to regional cinema and a hub for emerging talent. Recommendations from the visit include exploring formal partnerships, developing joint workshops, and continuing to submit SPAA student films to festivals across the region.
SPAA expressed its pride in the achievements showcased during the festival and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting emerging filmmakers across the region. The Academy noted that this milestone reflects the strength of its programmes and the growing impact of its students’ work. SPAA will continue to champion regional creativity, foster meaningful collaborations, and provide platforms that empower young artists to share their stories with wider audiences.
