The UAE News Report
Sharjah: The classic Cinderella story has been reimagined through live theatre and artificial intelligence in CINDY 3.0, a production presented at the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026) for children and their families.
The performance combined actors on stage with digital elements to offer a contemporary interpretation of the familiar fairy tale. According to the organisers, the production attracted visitors of different ages and gave families an opportunity to experience a form of storytelling that brings traditional performance together with emerging technology.
Presented at the fair’s Theatre, CINDY 3.0 placed live performers at the centre of the show while using technology as part of the theatrical presentation. The organisers described the approach as an example of how digital tools can complement, rather than replace, the human expression involved in a live performance.
A familiar fairy tale in a new setting
Cinderella is a story recognised by audiences across generations, making it an accessible starting point for a production intended for family viewing. In this adaptation, the familiar narrative provided a framework for introducing younger visitors to the possibilities of contemporary theatrical presentation.
The production also gave parents and children a shared cultural activity during their visit to the book fair. Its combination of live acting and digital components reflected the event’s wider interest in different forms of storytelling, extending the experience beyond books and written narratives.
Although the organisers said artificial intelligence was incorporated into the production, the release did not specify which systems or techniques were used. The focus of the announcement was on the overall audience experience and on the continuing importance of performers in bringing the story to life.
Encouraging children to experience the arts
Ahmed Abu el-Naga, a member of the organising team, said productions of this kind can strengthen connections between family members while providing an introduction to artistic expression.
“Experiences like this create meaningful connections between parents and their children. When families enjoy a performance together, they build memories that stay with them, while giving children an opportunity to discover the arts in an enjoyable and memorable way.”
He added: “By presenting familiar stories through new forms of performance, we can spark children’s curiosity, nurture their love of art and encourage them to explore different forms of creativity. It is important that they see art as something they can enjoy, engage with and carry with them as they grow.”
The comments underline the organisers’ aim of making performing arts approachable to younger audiences. Instead of treating technology as the main attraction, the production uses a well-known story and a live theatrical setting to encourage children to engage with a creative performance.
Storytelling beyond the printed page
The performance formed part of the cultural programme at the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority. The fair runs from 4 to 15 November 2026 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme Made of Stories, with the Sultanate of Oman as Guest of Honour.
According to the organisers, this year’s edition brings together 3,212 publishers and exhibitors from 126 countries, showcasing more than 1.7 million titles. Its programme includes 1,500 cultural, creative and artistic events featuring 106 guests from 25 countries.
By including theatrical productions such as CINDY 3.0 alongside its literary activities, the fair offers visitors opportunities to encounter stories through performance as well as reading. The show also illustrates the organisers’ interest in exploring how established narratives can be presented to new generations using contemporary creative formats.
