DHAHRAN: The Ministry of Culture’s Film Commission hosted Syrian actor and filmmaker Ghassan Massoud for a masterclass titled “The Secrets of Acting Art” in Alkhobar over the weekend.

The masterclass, a part of the filmmaker’s program, covered the fundamentals of cinematic and theatrical acting, including academic training and actual practice.

It emphasized the close relationship between acting and the visual arts, music, sociology and psychology. 

Reflecting on his training and upbringing, Massoud had praise for the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Damascus, where he studied and later became a professor. 

He said Syrian theater and filmmaking drew inspiration from mainstream and alternative sources, including Hollywood and European cinematic traditions. 

The masterclass consisted of two question-and-answer sessions. The first round was moderated by scriptwriter and director Abdulaziz Al-Sultan, who guided a discussion on Massoud’s background and his experiences in television and filmmaking. 

The second round provided an opportunity for interactions with the audience that included filmmakers from diverse backgrounds, as well as movie enthusiasts.

Massoud shared his thoughts on how actors should approach character development.

“I familiarize myself with the character’s vocation, trade jargon, and tools, as well as their psychological and physical attributes, weaknesses, and illnesses. All these aspects influence the character’s attitude, body language, facial expressions, and overall charisma or presence on set.” 

Massoud had praise for the cultural landscape in the Eastern Province. He said he was delighted to have met talented and emerging actors, directors, screenwriters and cinematographers.

The actor has been acclaimed for his performances in several international films including Ridley Scott’s 2005 epic “Kingdom of Heaven,” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.” 

He said he has enjoyed visiting the Kingdom and collaborating on various cultural and artistic projects. This involvement includes serving as a jury member at the 2023 Saudi Theater Festival in Riyadh. 

He also has a part in the upcoming historical epic “Desert Warrior,” which was shot in NEOM in northeastern Saudi Arabia and is set for release in the new year. 

When asked about advice he has for aspiring actors, he told Arab News: “Dream a lot but work more.”

The filmmaker’s program, now in its fourth run, has opened new horizons for amateurs and professionals. It features a training program that encompasses all stages of film production, from initial ideas to marketing and distribution.

The program includes both in-person and virtual workshops with experts, as well as artistic residencies and masterclasses in collaboration with international institutes and universities.

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief’s humanitarian initiatives are benefiting thousands across Syria, Yemen and Lebanon.

In northern Syria, KSrelief delivered food baskets and hygiene kits to 551 earthquake-affected families in Aleppo, benefiting 3,306 individuals in one day.

In Yemen, 641 food baskets were distributed to vulnerable families in Aden and Lahij, assisting 4,487 individuals in one day.

KSrelief also concluded a week-long urology surgery project in Aden, involving nine specialists who examined 53 cases and performed 109 surgeries.

In Taiz, KSrelief’s rehabilitation center provided 1,537 services to 416 beneficiaries in one month, including prosthetic limb fittings, maintenance, physical therapy, and consultations.

In Lebanon, the KSrelief-funded Subul Al-Salam ambulance service conducted 51 missions in Miniyeh in one week, offering emergency aid to Syrian and Palestinian refugees and host communities.

Additionally, KSrelief distributed 175,000 bread bags to 12,500 families in one week through the Al-Amal Charity Bakery project in Akkar and Miniyeh.