Queens of Syria

Queens of Syria is a poignant and powerful documentary that delves into the lives of a group of courageous Syrian women who have been displaced by war and yet find the strength to rebuild and reclaim their cultural heritage. The film follows the journey of a troupe of refugee women from Syria as they prepare to put on an Arabic adaptation of the ancient Greek tragedy, 'The Trojan Women', in the city of Amman, Jordan. Directed by Nadine Labaki and Christopher King, the documentary sheds light on the resilience and determination of these women who have faced unimaginable hardships, including the loss of loved ones, property, and livelihoods. Despite their struggles, they find solace in the creative process of preparing for the play, which serves as a means of escapism, expression, and a way to reclaim their identities. As the story unfolds, the women, all from different walks of life, come together to form the troupe. Led by director, Francesca Whipple, they embark on a journey to adapt 'The Trojan Women' for a modern-day audience, one that is deeply resonant with their own experiences as refugees. The play tells the story of Trojan women, widowed and orphaned, who find strength and solidarity in the face of war, echoing the stories of these Syrian women who have been displaced by conflict. Throughout their journey, the women face numerous challenges, both within and outside the theatre. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the trauma of their past experiences threaten to disrupt the production at every turn. Yet, they persevere, driven by a desire to share their stories, to be heard, and to find a sense of purpose in a world that seems to have turned their backs on them. One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is its focus on the human spirit, which is exemplified by the bond that forms between the women. Despite their differences, they come together as a community, supporting and encouraging each other as they work towards a common goal. The film captures the raw emotion, the laughter, and the tears of these women as they navigate the complexities of their personal lives and their creative endeavors. The documentary also raises important questions about identity, cultural heritage, and the role of theatre in times of conflict. By updating 'The Trojan Women' for a modern-day audience, the women not only reclaim their cultural legacy but also challenge the dominant narrative of their experiences. They assert their agency, resisting the reduction of their stories to mere statistics or victimhood, and instead insist on being seen and heard as complex, multifaceted individuals. As the production comes together, the women face a daunting challenge: to transport their audience to a world of their own making, one that is rooted in their experiences, traditions, and history. Through their adaptation of 'The Trojan Women', they create a powerful metaphor for their own stories, one that speaks to the universal human experience of displacement, loss, and resilience. On the night of the premiere, the women take to the stage, their performances infused with a mix of emotion, passion, and vulnerability. The audience, comprised of fellow refugees, Jordanians, and international guests, is moved to tears, laughter, and applause as the women bring their stories to life. Queens of Syria is a powerful tribute to the human spirit, a testament to the transformative power of art, and a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of women in the face of adversity. Through the medium of film, the documentary brings the stories of these women to the world, allowing us to bear witness to their courage, resilience, and creativity in the midst of conflict and displacement.