Faysal Farah’s documentary short ‘Our Theatre, Our Home’ is an intimate and deeply moving portrait of resilience, mentorship, and the power of the arts. Anchored by the compelling presence of Tarik Bakkali, this Moroccan film is an ode to transformation and the enduring spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their pasts.
Through the keen cinematographic eye of Yasmine Tohme, the film captures both the vibrancy and quiet struggles of Darna, a youth centre in Tangier that serves as a refuge for homeless and disadvantaged children. Once a student there himself, Tarik returns not just as an instructor, but as living proof of the centre’s impact. His story is one of perseverance: a troubled home life and learning difficulties led him to Darna, where theatre became his salvation. Now, as he mentors the next generation, his journey comes full circle.
Farah expertly balances interviews, observational footage, and nostalgic recollections, allowing Tarik’s past and present to collide in a poignant, seamless rhythm. The film never veers into sentimentality; instead, it finds its strength in quiet, authentic moments – a conversation between Tarik and a current student, a tour of the facility where so many have found solace, the unspoken weight of his own battles, including a life-altering brain tumor. His philosophy is simple: take life step by step. It’s this humility, combined with an unwavering dedication to his community, that makes his story so inspiring.
With high production values and thoughtful storytelling, ‘Our Theatre, Our Home’ is an uplifting credit to the transformative power of the arts. This film is a celebration of resilience, a love letter to mentorship, and a rallying cry for opportunity in places where it is most needed.
