TEHRAN- The Iranian government has pledged to make theaters suitable for people with disabilities by next year, Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili has said. 

He made the remarks during the closing ceremony of the Faragir section, a segment of the Fajr Theater Festival dedicated to the disabled, on Monday.

Expressing his satisfaction with the festival and the inclusion of the Faragir section, Esmaeili acknowledged that the current infrastructure for the presence of disabled individuals and artists in theaters is not adequate. However, he promised that by next year's ceremony, a suitable venue would be available.

In addition to addressing the immediate needs, Esmaeili emphasized the importance of considering accessibility for disabled individuals in the construction of future theaters.

The Faragir section of the festival was organized in collaboration with the Welfare Organization. Amir Mohammad Qaderi, the head of the organization, expressed gratitude to the festival secretary for integrating the Faragir section into the Fajr Theater Festival, highlighting that this was the first time such a ceremony was being held.

Qaderi further emphasized the significance of art therapy, which has been a focal point for the Welfare Organization for many years. He stated that efforts have been made to hold regional festivals, ensuring that disabled individuals are included in society and able to sustain their social lives.

Official data from 2019 indicates that there are over 1.3 million people with disabilities in Iran, with the number increasing by 50,000 each year.

The 42nd Fajr International Theater Festival, which kicked off in Tehran on January 21, is being held at various venues, including Vahdat Hall, City Theater Complex, Sangelaj Hall, Molvi Theater, Hafez Hall, Art Hall, Mehrab Theater Complex, and Iranshahr Hall.

The festival will be running until February 1.

SAB/