The House of Tales and Music, Jordan: Behind the Scenes

Are you interested in child development, education, music, or drama? Volunteering at the House of Tales and Music in Jordan could be for you.  The House of Tales and Music is an organization focused on teaching Jordanian children how to express themselves through the arts. Rabeea Nasser, the founder and site supervisor, recognizes the importance of the project’s work and the work of volunteers.  She told us, “Reading and art are not encouraged in Jordanian schools, and at the House of Tales and Music, the children can be free and learn about themselves. The volunteers are active and give a new face for the children, which makes them excited to come to the House of Tales and Music.”  This organization is dedicated to helping to nurture the next generation of open-minded and creative thinkers.

On Thursday, March 21st (Mother’s Day in Jordan), the children at the House of Tales and Music in Jordan presented their very own adaptation of the classic children’s book by Patricia MacLachlan, Sarah, Plain and Tall.  The Arabic Book Program, provided by the U.S. Embassy, translates and distributes American literature in Arabic countries, so that children would have access to a greater range of literature. Rabeea chose this story to be translated because she found it to be “relatable to everyone. Sarah is changing her environment and life. It’s like a sharing of cultures. The father, children, and Sarah try to build trust and become a family. It is a good message for families.”  

In the tradition of the House of Tales and Music, the children breathed life into the story by performing a play. The names from the original story were changed to names that are more common in Jordan. Iayla Zatar, age 11, played Marwa; for all those who are familiar with MacLachlan’s book, this character is Anna in the original story. Iayla has been in Arabic and French plays at her school.  She attends the House of Tales and Music after school, and she enjoys making necklaces, playing sports, singing, and taking music lessons.  When she is older, she aspires to be a doctor, poet, or writer.  On her experiences with acting, she said, “I feel like I’m still me, but I take new feelings, and can do many things.”

Quais Alfaris, age 10, played Caleb, or Moneer as he was called in the House of Tales and Music’s version. In addition to acting, he also plays the drums.  His passion for the arts is clear. He was able to identify with the character he played, as he said, “I love to act in front of the audience; it makes me feel good. I am excited, not scared. My character is always asking questions and is excited, like me.” 

The director and set designer of the play, Rajaii Alkoja, is originally from Syria.  Due to the situation in his home country, he has now been in Jordan for a year, offering his gifts and talents to all those at the House of Tales and Music.  He studied set design in Syria, and he uses the knowledge he gained there to help the children put on a successful production.  He realizes how important it can be for young people to take part in different modes of creative expression, emphasizing how children “can learn from theatre. Some children are closed and shy; but the theatre exercises we do make them more open, and they can grow through theatre.”

Through the efforts of people like Rabeea, Rajaii, and the volunteers at the House of Tales and Music, children like Quais and Iayla have the opportunity to grow and learn through the experience of the dramatic arts.  With all the energy and passion behind the show, it was sure to be a great success – and a great gift for all the mothers watching on Mother’s Day!

Are you interested in going on your own quest to Jordan? You can read about a volunteer’s experience at the House of Tales and Music here. Visit our website, or contact us at quest@unitedplanet.org or 1-800-292-2316 with any questions!