RIYADH: The Architecture and Design Commission has signed a strategic partnership with contracting firm Nesma & Partners to promote the Kingdom’s architecture and design industry.

The commission’s CEO Sumayah Al-Solaiman and Nesma’s Managing Director Rami Al-Turki on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a framework for collaboration in professional development and industry innovation.

The partnership aims to prepare a new generation of Saudi professionals to compete on the world stage and reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a regional hub for architecture and design excellence.

“The initiative aims to empower architects and designers to develop their skills and enhance their capabilities, creating an environment that nurtures Saudi talent while fostering innovation and creativity in the sector,” Al-Solaiman said.

It would also help to advance the commission’s mission to forge strategic alliances with industry leaders, she said.

Under the deal, the two sides will cooperate in areas such as industry best practice, knowledge exchange and professional workshops. It will also involve the joint sponsorship of competitions, awards and conferences.

“As a leading Saudi contractor, we are committed to providing training and creating employment opportunities for Saudi architects,” Al-Turki said.

“Our strategic partnership with the commission reflects our values of innovation, excellence and social responsibility.”

The initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals for sector development, focusing on building a sustainable ecosystem for architecture and design professionals.

The commission emphasized its commitment to advancing scientific research and creating an integrated environment that supports the sector’s creative community.

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.