theater, artistic practice, & civic life in algeria

dr. jane e. goodman

Theater Demolition

In June 2009, the Osmane Fethi Theater was demolished by the state to clear the way for a port and seascape beautification project.


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Some actors sleep in the theater the night before it was to be demolished. June 13, 2009

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The theater’s electrical box is removed. June 13, 2009

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Sarah, actor with El Moudja, contemplates the impending destruction. June 13, 2009

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Actor Bachir Boudjemaa faces the impending demolition of the theater he has acted in since the age of three. June 13, 2009

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A moment of despair for actor Bachir Boudjemaa. June 13, 2009

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The backhoe gets closer. June 13, 2009

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Fatiha Boudjemaa watches as young boys and men build a symbolic barricade in the street. June 13, 2009

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Symbolic street barricade. June 13, 2009

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The Algerian flag is draped over a neighbor’s house. June 13, 2009

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Actors and supporters wait to see what will happen. June 13, 2009

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The street heats up. June 13, 2009

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Actors begin packing up the theater for the move. June 13, 2009

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The theater empties out. The truck outside will take El Moudja’s equipment to their new location. June 13, 2009

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El Moudja actors look at the backhoe as it slowly works its way toward the theater. June 13, 2009

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At the end of the day, the theater is the only building left standing. The next day, it will be demolished. June 13, 2009

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Rubble following the demolition. June 15, 2009