JEDDAH, 11 November 2004 — Abdullah Al-Sadan and Nasser Al-Qasbi, lead actors in the perennially popular comedy “Tash Ma Tash” are used to criticism of their controversial critique on Saudi society.
This year, they are under special pressure from authorities. Accused by religious leaders of criticizing “religious men” when they dressed in an easily identifiable style, they face the threat of the show being permanently banned.
Last night, they were interviewed by Turky A-Dakheel on Al-Arabiya Channel, to explain their critique, the objects of the criticism declined to appear and defend their point of view.
Al-Sadan and Al-Qasbi said that this shows that they have a case to answer and that their sharp portrayal of some of the more Visible aspects of Saudi life has a basis in reality.
“We welcome healthy positive criticism,” they said, “because it encourages us to go on with the show.”
Declared by one imam as “kafirs” (infidels) and by another as worthy candidates for hell, the two have no intention of changing their approach.
