Gaza’s only female comedian faces challenges
Reham al-Kahlout says it is not easy for other women to join her on stage because society is increasingly conservative.
Gaza Strip – The only female comedy actress in Gaza is an internet sensation in the region.
But Reham al-Kahlout says it is not easy for other women to join her on stage because society in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territory is increasingly conservative.
“My family was facing huge pressure from friends and relatives to urge me to stop,” she said.
“At first, my dad was bothered by all this. Then, in the end, he said if [that is] what you want to do and it’s not shameful, then you have my full support.”
Kahlout currently works with a group of actors based in Gaza. But she dreams of going to Egypt, where she believes more opportunities are available for aspiring comedians.
However, that would only be possible if Egypt reopens its borders with Gaza, since Israel‘s blockade makes it difficult for young people to travel.