Posted by 12th OISTAT Theatre Architecture Competition 2025
THE INVERTED PANOPTICON
The courtyard at Bait Obaid Al Shamsi resembles the Globe Theatre in London, designed by William Shakespeare in 1599. Its stage is a simple wooden structure open on three sides, emphasizing the bodies and actions of the actors. This reflects the vision of renowned theater director Peter Brook, who said: “I can take any empty space and call it a bare stage. A man walks across this empty space whilst someone else is watching him, and this is all that is needed for an act of theatre to be engaged.” Elaborate stage sets are unnecessary; the essence of drama and comedy is found in the performers’ actions.
Like in Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the audience is arranged in a three-quarter circle around the stage, creating a sense of intimacy. The hexagonal geometry of our stage draws inspiration from Islamic art. The central light tower – while dialoguing with the three Barjeels of the courtyard – acts as a focal point. It resembles an artificial tree with a semi-permeable canopy that creates a dynamic play of light and shadow throughout the day.
Movable stools at ground level can accommodate up to 150 spectators, while the surrounding terraces provide an exceptional vantage point, allowing the audience to partake in an immersive 360-degree experience. The structure is crafted from various locally sourced woods, including iroko, bamboo, spruce, and pine, as well as WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) for the stage.
OZA _Studio for Architecture and Scenography 