Dandara: a drama for young Palestinians

Many young people in Gaza and the West Bank feel disempowered. Years of conflict, lack of employment, housing and security all play a part.

Dandara (an expression used by Palestinian youth that roughly translates as ‘constructive chaos or confusion that brings hope’) aims to tackle these issues through drama. The online drama’s six-minute episodes tackle very real issues affecting young people in the Palestinian Territories. Despite their problems, the central characters are entrepreneurial, determined and ambitious. They are striving for a better future.

In a gripping opening episode, Jawad is under pressure. His father’s wheelchair has been stolen and without it – his father can’t get around. Jawad’s family is poor – but through his positive attitude, networks and charm – he’s able to replace the chair that day.

The drama is produced by a team of trainees (aged 18-25), specialising in different forms of production: scriptwriting, audio, camerawork and directing. Creating the drama helps trainees hone their skills while helping young people find solutions to common problems.

“There aren’t any film schools in the Palestinian Territories – on-the-job training has given our trainees real-life experience of producing a drama” says Sophia Harb, a project manager. “What I love about the drama is that it’s able to paint a picture around taboo or sensitive subjects – love, loyalty, corruption and security.”

A major part of the project is to facilitate online discussion of the topics raised in the drama – including relationships, disability and crime.

Hassan Jeddah advises on the project’s social media. “Social media linked to the drama helps provide a space for discussion about daily life challenges,” he said, adding he hoped the project would “encourage youth to be more tolerant” of differences among Palestinians. 

Project information