Traditional Folk Arts Reflect Courage and Joy at Al-Baha 94th National Day Celebrations

Traditional folk arts took center stage at Al-Baha 94th National Day celebrations, testimony to their esteemed place as symbols of courage and joy representing the past and the present. Ardah of the southern region is considered the jewel in the crown of folk arts from the region. Men line up in a circular or arched formation, holding swords, daggers, or sticks; straight rows of men might face each other. The performance relies on poetry, rhythmic beats, and a rhythm master who swiftly steps out from between the rows to the center of the field when the rhythmic beating of the drums starts. He stands in front of the rows, raising his sword or dagger, then jumps bending his right leg in mid-air. The rhythm master maintains the uniformity and coordination of the rows until the beats come to a Source: Saudi Press Agency