Mechanisms of Renewal in Children’s Theatrical Texts in Algeria: Selected Models

Abstract

Dramatic writing addressed to children in Algeria has undergone a qualitative shift, enabling it to move from imitation to renewal. This transformation has been achieved thanks to the efforts of numerous Algerian playwrights who have sought to elevate this art form and bring it to the level of other literary genres, while also developing it as an artistic practice no less important than they are. This is particularly significant given that it is addressed to the child, who constitutes the primary pillar of society and the foundation for the construction of civilisation and national and cultural identity. Therefore, children’s theatre must combine pleasure and excitement with education and instruction. This study seeks to demonstrate the key mechanisms of renewal adopted by writers of children’s theatre in Algeria, including Azzedine Djellaoudji, Ahcene Tlilani, and Youcef Baaloudj. These writers have attempted to break away from the traditional model in line with the requirements of the new society and the needs of the Algerian child, who today is increasingly attracted to technology and digital media. It has therefore become necessary to keep pace with these developments, to promote this art form, and to move it out of the sphere of imitation towards broad horizons of renewal.