Remona is a Saudi woman of multiple talents, singing, acting and presenting programs. In an interview with Sayidaty, a sister publication of Arab News, she talks about her dreams and aspirations and the experiences that made her what she is today.
Why did you conceal your Saudi identity?
I thought that women were not allowed to work in entertainment here, until I met the Saudi actor Fuad Baksh and the Saudi actress Najya Al-Rabie. Only then did I realize that there wasn't a big problem.
Did your family object to your taking up acting?
Yes everybody objected. But I insisted, and eventually they backed down, because they saw how much I love acting. But of course I respect Saudi culture and traditions. That is why I turned down an offer of a major part alongside Hani Ramzi, because it was sensitive.
You spent five years doing other things before you finally turned to acting.
Yes I worked as a model and a TV presenter. That was my ticket to the acting profession. But once I started acting, I gave up the other things.
Do you think that your husband - an Egyptian businessman - will become a producer for you?
I don't think so. It's very different from what he does. He doesn't understand TV producing, and I don't think he would risk his money in a job that he doesn't know. At the same time I don't need my husband's money do become successful; I can do it on my own. The TV work that I am doing will see to that.
They are saying that you look like the famous Egyptian actress Nabeela Obaied, do you agree?
Yes, that's true.
Why did you then withdraw from the TV series "Amma Nur" starring Nabeela Obaied?
Yes, true I was chosen to act in that TV series, but I don't really want to talk about my reasons for turning it down.
Do you think that Saudi female actresses are the weakest link in Saudi drama?
Of course; there are so few of them. That's why producers get actresses from Bahrain and Kuwait. But they don't know the Saudi accent; it's a problem.
What is the biggest problem about being a Saudi woman as far as your work is concerned?
There are no special problems for Saudi, Egyptian or UAE women. The problems are mostly to do with the Arab family. Saudi culture is changing, now there are female engineers, doctors, painters and clothes designers.
Who is your favorite Saudi actress?
Honestly, I don't prefer any Saudi actress.
We saw you as a singer with the song "First Love" how did that happen?
I started singing upon the suggestion of the poets Ahmad Sheta and Antar Hilal. They suggested that singing is the quickest way to fame, and producer Mazin Al-Jabali agreed. So I did it and it was a huge success.
Critics say that your style is similar to Hayfa Wahbi's. How do you respond to that?
I like Hayfa's style, but I don't think we're all that similar; I think there are a lot of differences between our styles.
Do you think you might quit acting as your singing career takes off?
No, I don't think so. I think it's possible to handle the demands of both professions.
