Damascus, Aug. 8 (SANA)TheDamascus Citadelhosted Friday the interactive play“The Chair and the Stick,”which uses comedy to address social themes as part of the second day of theSyria Summer Festival for Families 2026.

Performed by six actors, the play uses a chair and a stick as theatrical and narrative symbols to emphasize that mobility aids for persons with disabilities are tools that enable movement, participation and integration into society, rather than signs of weakness.

Director Abdulrahman Bakour told SANA that the play aims to highlight the strength and determination of persons with disabilities, challenge societal stigma, and call for creating real opportunities for their participation and empowerment instead of viewing them through pity or condescension.

Actress Madonna Hammoud said art can contribute to reshaping social perceptions and individual behavior through simple, family-friendly language, giving the performance an educational and interactive dimension.

Children interacted with the performers throughout the show, responding spontaneously to its scenes and activities.

The play is part of the awareness-raising and educational activities of the Syria Summer Festival for Families 2026, which includes cultural and artistic programs aimed at promoting social awareness and participation.