Historical Figure
Abu Khalil al-Qabbani
Ottoman
Ahmed Abu Khalil ibn Hussein Agha Aqbiq, known as Abu Khalil al-Qabbani, was a Syrian theatre owner, playwright, actor and composer, active as a pioneer of Arab theatre in the 1870s at the time of the Arab nahda movement in Damascus and Cairo.
Connection to Damascus
Born in Damascus; established a theater district in Damascus; his performances were censored by conservative Islamic establishment.
Known for
Father of Syrian theatre; introduced short musical plays to Arabic theatre.
Lifespan
1833 – 1903
Biography
Ahmed Abu Khalil ibn Hussein Agha Aqbiq, known as Abu Khalil al-Qabbani, was a Syrian theatre owner, playwright, actor and composer, active as a pioneer of Arab theatre in the 1870s at the time of the Arab nahda movement in Damascus and Cairo.