Selim Hanna: The Journey of a Syrian Syriac Artist in the World of Theater and Drama

Selim Hanna (1934–1986) stands as one of Syria’s most prominent artistic figures, renowned as a playwright, actor, and theater director who left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural and artistic landscape. As a member of the Syriac community, not merely in a religious sense but as a distinct national and cultural identity, Selim carried a rich heritage, blending his deep-rooted Syriac traditions with his Syrian national identity. His works resonate with social and humanistic messages, reflecting both his personal journey and the broader Syrian experience. In this comprehensive article, we delve into Selim Hanna’s life, his artistic career, his contributions to Syrian theater, cinema, and television, and his enduring legacy as a committed artist who championed the Syriac identity as a national and cultural cornerstone. 

Early Life in  Zalin (Qamishli): The Roots of Creativity 

Selim Hanna was born in 1934 in Zalin (Qamishli), a city in Syria’s Hasakah Governorate, located in the northeastern part of the country. Zalin (Qamishli) is renowned for its cultural and ethnic diversity, where Arab, Kurdish, Syriac (Aramean-Chaldean-Assyrian) communities coexist, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange. Selim belonged to the Syriac people, a native national Syrian group with a profound historical legacy, preserving their Syriac language, cultural heritage, and religious traditions. The Syriac community, as a national identity, has long contributed to the region’s artistic and civilizational achievements, and Selim Hanna embodied this legacy. 

Raised in a modest environment, Selim grew up in a Zalin (Qamishli) that was primarily an agricultural town, far removed from the cultural spotlight of cities like Daramsuq (Damascus) or Holeb (Aleppo). Yet, this setting did not deter him from discovering his passion for the arts. From a young age, he showed a clear inclination toward theater, beginning his artistic journey by participating in small school performances organized locally. These modest productions, though simple, sparked his lifelong love for theater and acting. 

At an early age, Selim made a bold decision to abandon formal education to pursue his artistic ambitions—a rare and daring choice in a conservative society that often viewed the arts as an unstable profession. His belief in his talent and his ability to voice the concerns of his community, including those of the Syriac people, through theater propelled him forward, despite the social and economic challenges he faced. 

Theatrical Beginnings in Zalin (Qamishli) 

In the late 1940s and early 1950s, Selim Hanna began forming multiple local theater troupes in Zalin (Qamishli). These troupes comprised enthusiastic young individuals from the city, many of whom shared his passion for the arts and his Syriac identity. Selim took on multiple roles, writing scripts, directing performances, and often acting in them himself, establishing himself as a pioneer of the local theatrical movement. During this period, theater was not a common pursuit in rural areas like Zalin (Qamishli), where resources were scarce, and audiences were unaccustomed to this form of artistic expression. 

Selim founded the “Friends of Theater Association” in Zalin (Qamishli), an initiative aimed at promoting theatrical culture and encouraging young people, particularly those from the Syriac Aamean community, to engage in the arts. Through this association, he presented numerous plays, most of which he wrote, directed, and performed in, addressing pressing social issues such as poverty, injustice, and family conflicts, while highlighting Syriac cultural identity in some works. These works were distinctly populist, resonating deeply with local audiences. 

Among his notable works from this period is the play Bloodshed (1954), which tackled themes of violence and social conflict with a powerful dramatic style, subtly referencing the challenges faced by native national groups, including the Syriacs (Arameans-Assyrians-Chaldeans). Other works included The Black News (1956), which focused on familial struggles, and Blood on the Paths (1960), which boldly addressed political and social issues. These plays were more than mere performances; they served as platforms for sparking dialogue and raising social and national awareness. 

The Move to Daramsuq (Damascus): A Phase of Artistic Maturity 

In 1961, Selim Hanna joined the Syrian National Theater in Daramsuq (Damascus), a move that marked a turning point in his artistic career. As Syria’s cultural and political hub, Daramsuq (Damascus) hosted a more developed theatrical scene, particularly with the establishment of the National Theater in 1960. Selim participated in approximately 72 plays during his tenure, spanning social dramas, comedies, and historical works. His ability to embody a wide range of characters—whether complex tragic figures or lighthearted comedic roles—set him apart. His commanding stage presence, expressive voice, and emotional depth made him one of the most distinguished actors of his time. 

Beyond acting, Selim continued to write and direct plays, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted artist. His works at the National Theater reflected a clear artistic vision, focusing on the concerns of the Syrian people while highlighting the country’s national and cultural diversity, including the Syriac heritage. Among his contributions were plays inspired by Arabic-language and global literature, as well as local works addressing contemporary Syrian issues. 

Contributions to Cinema and Television 

Selim Hanna’s contributions were not limited to theater; they extended to cinema and television, where he showcased the versatility of his talent. Among his notable cinematic works is the film The Charming Thief, in which he delivered a standout performance, blending comedy with dramatic depth. He also appeared in the widely popular television series Hammam al-Hana, where his strong presence and natural acting earned him widespread admiration. These works cemented his status as a versatile artist, capable of shining across various artistic mediums.

Selim Hanna’s Role in Founding the Artists’ Syndicate 

Selim Hanna’s contributions extended beyond artistic creation to advocacy for artists’ rights and the advancement of the arts in Syria. He played a key role in establishing the Syrian Artists’ Syndicate, an organization dedicated to protecting artists’ interests and fostering the development of the country’s artistic movement. Selim was among the pioneers who laid the foundation for this syndicate, which later became a vital cultural institution in Syria. 

This role underscored his deep commitment to the arts as a social and national mission. He believed artists should serve as the voice of their communities, and the syndicate could provide the support needed for artists, including those from native national groups like the Syriacs, to thrive amidst economic and social challenges. 

The Social and National Character of Selim Hanna’s Works 

Selim Hanna’s works were characterized by their committed social engagement, addressing issues central to Syrian society, such as social injustice, poverty, family conflicts, and the challenges of navigating traditional norms. His plays served as a mirror reflecting the struggles of ordinary people, while also carrying reformist messages aimed at sparking dialogue and raising social awareness. 

His Syriac national identity profoundly influenced his work. Selim skillfully blended Syriac and Arabic cultural elements in his scripts, creating a unique artistic voice. For instance, he occasionally incorporated Syriac folklore, popular tales, or cultural symbols into his plays, highlighting the Syriac national heritage as an integral part of Syria’s identity. This cultural synthesis made his works a bridge between Syria’s diverse communities, reinforcing the concept of national unity. 

International Endeavors 

Selim Hanna’s work was not confined to Syria; it extended to other Arabic-speaking countries. In 1959, he presented the play The Trial of Abdul Salam Arif in Iraq, a bold work addressing sensitive political issues. This experience showcased his artistic courage and ability to engage with regional issues through impactful drama. His participation in theatrical performances in other countries further elevated the presence of Syrian theater and Syriac culture on stage. 

Published Works 

In addition to his theatrical contributions, Selim Hanna authored numerous plays that were published and distributed, reflecting his commitment to documenting his artistic output. Key works include: 

• Bloodshed (1954): A powerful exploration of violence and social injustice. 

• The Black News (1956): A focus on familial and social challenges. 

• Blood on the Paths (1960): A bold examination of political and social issues. 

Selim also co-authored a book titled The Jazira and Its Notables with Othman Ramzi. This significant documentary work chronicles the history of Syria’s Gozarto (Jazeera) region, spotlighting its prominent figures and emphasizing the national and cultural contributions of the Syriac community. 

Cultural Impact and Artistic Legacy 

Selim Hanna passed away in 1986 after a battle with illness, but his rich artistic and cultural legacy endures through the dozens of plays he wrote, directed, and performed, as well as his contributions to cinema and television. A symbol of the committed artist, he believed art was not merely entertainment but a tool for social change and education. His works continue to be studied in Syrian academic and cultural circles, forming an essential part of the national theatrical heritage. 

As a Syriac (Chaldean-Aramean-Assyrian) by national identity, Selim Hanna played a pivotal role in highlighting Syria’s national and cultural diversity, serving as a bridge between Syriac and Arabic-speaking cultures. His contributions extended beyond theater to fostering cultural and social dialogue in Syria. He exemplified the artist who harmonized national specificity with broader Syrian identity, making him a symbol of unity in a diverse society. 

Selim Hanna and Modern Syrian Theater 

Selim Hanna was a pioneer in shaping modern Syrian theater, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, a period of flourishing theatrical activity in Syria. The National Theater, where he was a key figure, provided a platform for works reflecting the country’s social and political transformations. Through his diverse roles, Selim strengthened theater’s role as a medium for expressing Syrian identity, with the Syriac national heritage as a vital component. 

His influence extended to subsequent generations of Syrian artists. Many actors and directors who worked with him at the National Theater drew inspiration from his dedication and passion, ensuring his legacy transcended his era. 

Conclusion 

Selim Hanna was more than an actor or director; he was a symbol of committed art with a humanistic and national mission. From the humble streets of  Zalin (Qamishli) to the stage of Daramsuq’s (Damascus’s) National Theater, and from theater to the screens of cinema and television, he carried the dreams and struggles of ordinary people, transforming them into timeless works of art. His legacy stands as a testament to his role as a pioneer of Syrian theater and a Syriac artist who enriched both the Syriac national identity and Syrian culture. 

In an era of competing identities, Selim Hanna remains a model of the artist who bridged Syriac national specificity with Syrian national belonging. His works, blending social and humanistic drama, continue to inspire artists and audiences alike. Selim Hanna was not merely an artist; he was a voice for truth, a bridge between national communities, and an enduring mark on the history of Syrian art.

In this series

Iskander Aziz: An Icon of Syrian and Syriac Art

Nouri Iskandar: Ambassador of Syriac Eastern Music and Chronicler of Its Heritage

The Syriac Asfar-Najjar Family: pioneers of Syrian agriculture in a journey through time

Youssef Abdelké: A Visionary Syriac Artist Blending Creativity and Commitment

Yaqub Keryo: The Syriac Journalist and Thinker Who Carried the Torch of Nationalism and Culture

Saeed Ishaq: The Silent Statesman Who Left His Mark on History

The Saga of Bahdi Keryo: A Leader Forged in Fire

Hanna Yaqub Abdulki (1877-1955): The Life of a Man Who Shaped History