A NEW Ramadan television series, which takes a light-hearted look at social interactions between two families, is being filmed in Bahrain.
Jdeemk Ndeemk (slang for Old is Gold) – written by 57-year-old veteran Bahraini actor, writer and theatre director Jamal Al Saqer – chronicles the lives of six characters and features Bahraini and UAE cast.
The series also marks the return of Bahraini actor and director Mustafa Rasheed to the Bahraini scene after working abroad for years.
The idea behind the series is very simple, said Mr Rasheed.
“It shies away from complications and tragedies in society,” the 50-year-old told the GDN.
“We want viewers to enjoy a good laugh,” he said, hoping that the project will open the doors for more work for him in Bahrain.
According to him, the golden era of Bahraini dramas was in the 1990s when it was on the verge of taking over the Khaleeji scene and emerging as an equal to Kuwaiti works.
However, a lack of interest and ability to market the local work brought the curtains down on the Bahraini scene.
“We have a strong Bahraini presence, in terms of actors, technicians and crew – we can boast we are the only country in the GCC with entire crews made of 100 per cent capable Bahraini cadres,” he added.
“A country’s television dramas give it its glamour and the support of Bahrain TV is crucial because our work represents our country.”
He pointed out that Bahraini directors remain the strongest and most known in the GCC.
Meanwhile, 69-year-old UAE comedy giant Jaber Naghmoosh said each episode of the series tells a different story involving his character, Yaqoot (Arabic for Ruby), and his interactions with Bahraini actress Suad Ali, who plays a neighbourhood consultant.
“Our series is special in its stories, cast and antics,” he added.
“It’s a traditional and simple story far removed from complicated issues such as divorce, marriage and violence as we wanted to take steps away from these problems; hopefully viewers will like it.
“Comedy has changed over the years but what remains crucial is the quality of the script that brings out the true value of the work.”
Meanwhile, Ms Ali, aged 57, praised Mr Naghmoosh, calling him the “king of classy purposeful comedy”.
“My character in the series finds solutions to people’s problems, working hand in hand with Yaqoot.
“However, my son in the series, played by Ali Al Ghurair, always gets involved and ruins my solutions in an amusing manner.”
Mr Al Ghurair, a Bahraini, plays an indifferent and naughty son giving grief to both his mother (Ms Ali) and his wife, played by 33-year-old Bahraini actress Salwa Al Jarrash.
“Each episode tells a different story with different guests of honour such as Bahraini pioneer Mohammed Yaseen, affectionately known as Baba Yaseen,” said Ms Al Jarrash.
“The series revolves around how we deal with these people but in a light, funny and social manner.”
Meanwhile, 48-year-old UAE actor Moosa Al Bugaishi praised close bonds between the cast members and crew.
The series will be broadcast on Abu Dhabi TV and Emarat TV during Ramadan this year and is produced by Abu Dhabi Media, with the executive production in Bahrain being handled by local Frame Box Production Centre.
reem@gdn.com.bh
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