Satirical Reflections on Post-Revolution Tunisian Reality

As part of the opening days of the first edition of the Tunisian National Theater Festival, *Seasons of Creativity*, organized by the Tunisian National Theater in partnership with the Abdelwaheb Ben Ayed Foundation and Microcred, audiences experienced the play *"The Rooster's Commandments."* Produced by Clandestino Theater Productions, the play was written by Monir Al-Amari, with dramaturgy and direction by Walid Daghisni. The performances by Osama Keshkar and Monir Al-Amari deliver a satirical critique of Tunisian society.

The play unfolds in an absurdist framework, with two isolated characters stranded on a mysterious island after humanity has been wiped out by a strange pandemic. Within this setting, a battle of ideas and perspectives emerges, creating a painful, humorous reflection on Tunisia's post-revolution experience, where society grapples with finding real solutions to its ongoing challenges.

The play's setting includes a ship, metaphorically named *“The Rooster’s Commandments,”* anchored on the island’s shores, creating a symbolic environment filled with contradictions. This isolated island mirrors Tunisia’s own social and economic isolation. A wooden chair, representing the unyielding political authority, stands firm amidst the waves, symbolizing a power that remains immovable despite the forces of change.

The play explores the dynamic between politicians and citizens. The ruler character embodies detachment and indifference, indulging in virtual adventures far removed from the harsh realities people face. This political figure symbolizes those who believe that distancing themselves from everyday issues preserves their authority, ignoring the plight of citizens burdened by difficult conditions.

The populace, on the other hand, struggles with daily demands and hardships, feeling trapped on an island with few paths to salvation. Like a shell repeatedly struck by waves, the people are portrayed as continuously recording cries of the waves, symbolizing the common folk striving to change their situation but lacking the wise leadership to guide them toward effective solutions.


Symbolism: From "The Rooster" to "Oedipus"


The play masterfully weaves symbols into a philosophical narrative. Through the character of "the rooster," oscillating between Greek mythology and cultural notions of authority, a double-layered critique is presented. While the rooster in Greek mythology is tied to sin, it also serves as a symbol of authority in popular culture. The political figure in the play attempts to create a facade of power, only to see relationships with the people deteriorate.

At the same time, the play references the Oedipus myth, as recounted by the sage Tiresias, invoking themes of power imbalances and the complex relationship between ruler and ruled. Roles are reversed in moments of chaos, as the political leader finds himself in the people’s shoes, while the people, now taking on the role of authority, are left despairing and floundering between power and disillusionment.

“The Rooster’s Commandments - وصايا الديك” does not directly judge the politician or the people. Instead, it delves into the nature of the relationship between them, drawing on the intricate details of daily life. The play reflects the lack of balance in Tunisia's post-revolution power structures amid challenging social and economic circumstances. Additionally, it portrays the struggles of Tunisian artists, searching for security and recognition amidst political indifference to their issues.