Taif is home to Al-Majroor, one of the oldest traditional arts in the governorate. The performance features two facing rows of participants who alternate between interpreting poetic texts and melodies.
According to SPA, the art has transitioned from being performed at weddings and social gatherings to appearing on stages at cultural events and festivals for residents and visitors.
The performance is centered around drummers who provide the rhythm that shapes the movement of the participants. The experience is completed by the use of traditional clothing, which serves as an integral part of the identity of the spectacle. Historically, the poems and melodies of Al-Majroor were passed down through generations via observation and practice during community celebrations.
What are the main elements of an Al-Majroor performance? An Al-Majroor performance consists of participants aligned in two facing groups who alternate the interpretation of melodies and poetic texts. The performance is centered around drummers who provide the rhythm for the movements, while the performers wear traditional clothing that is considered an integral part of the art’s identity.
Where is Al-Majroor traditionally performed? Al-Majroor was historically inseparable from community life in Taif, where it was performed during weddings, parties, and social meetings. In recent times, the art has moved from these social gatherings to be showcased on stages at cultural events and festivals for the benefit of visitors and local residents.
How was the art of Al-Majroor preserved over time? The art of Al-Majroor was preserved through the community habits of the inhabitants of Taif. The specific poems and musical airs associated with the performance were transmitted from one generation to another through the practice and observation of the art during social gatherings and celebrations.