Established in 2005, Al-Harah Theater are a non-profit organisation based in Beit Jala, Bethlehem. Committed to principles of plurality and multiculturalism, their mission is to promote theater arts in Palestine, with emphasis on democracy, freedom of expression, and human rights. Al-Harah bring compelling and accessible stories to Palestinian and Arab audiences, and participate in many international festivals to transport their narratives to theatres in both European and Asian countries. Jihan’s Smile (based on The Girl Who Lost Her Smile by Karim Alrawi), is a family show spoken in English and Arabic, and is well-crafted to suit both younger and more mature audiences.

One day, Jihan wakes up to find that she has lost her smile. The world loses its colour, the sun sets and the moon disappears from the sky. Cold spreads through the town and the people are getting sick, but no matter how hard she tries, Jihan cannot find her smile. Anxious that his daughter may never smile again, her Father brings people and animals from across the globe to her bedside in hope that it will make her happy. Everyone is waiting for her smile to come back. When she smiles, the sun will rise again, the moon will shine and the stars will dance in the sky. Colour and joy will return to the world – but who can help Jihan find her smile again?

Designed by Fairouz Nustas and Issam Rishmawi, the set evokes the patterns and textures of Palestine. Jihan’s bed is shaped like a miniature Asian palace, its canopy rising whenever she wakes. Surrounded by cushions, a perch for her human-sized bird, and a velvet stool for her Father, the complexion of the house is muted. In traditional Arabic dress, her Father scurries to and from the front door, constantly bombarded with guests from overseas.

The production takes a while to warm up. It’s pantomime humour feels unsettled to begin with, but soon becomes grounded and more perceptive. Costumes and props rely on long-established clowning techniques, which communicates its humour well to its younger audience. This, combined with a script scattered with astute political and moral observations, works to make the comedy meaningful. Al-Harah ensures complete accessibility for spectators of all ages, and by the end, the cast have the entire room applauding and laughing along with them.

Jihan’s Smile is not without its flaws, but it’s wonderful narrative and awareness of diverse cultures feels wholly necessary in the world of contemporary theatre-making. Al-Harah guarantee complete creative inclusion whatever your age or nationality, and are a brilliant example of the future of the arts.

Jihan’s Smile is playing at Summerhall until August 13. For more information and tickets, see www.tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/jihan-s-smile