Sami Metwasi is an artist and storyteller whose journey through acting, writing, directing, and music is deeply rooted in resilience and a passion for connection. Born in Bethlehem in the West Bank, Sami’s early years were shaped by the harsh realities of living under occupation. At the age of 17, with limited choices in higher education, he enrolled in Business studies. Yet, even amidst the turbulence, his love for the arts and storytelling became a guiding light.

Determined to follow his passion, Sami sought out opportunities wherever he could find them. With the help of some political groups on UNI Campus, he connected with Swiss theatre group Maralam and Palestinian theatre pioneers Ashtar Theatre. Together, they established a theatre training program at his college, which, over time, planted the seeds for what is now the Theatre Department at Bethlehem University.

Sami’s international journey began with his work in the refugee camps of the West Bank, creating performances that gave voice to the displaced and marginalized. His collaborations extended to Holland and later Europe, where his theatre company Inad toured in the late 1990s. In 2000, he was awarded the UNESCO Ashburg Artist’s Scholarship, which took him to India—a transformative experience that exposed him to new artistic approaches and cultural perspectives.

Back in Palestine, Sami co-founded two theatre companies. With Al-Harah Theatre, he co-directed Key and Life, a production that won Best Play at the Philadelphia Jordan Festival. He also wrote and directed Born in Bethlehem, a play that toured Britain, Italy, and Egypt, sharing stories of his homeland with audiences across the world.

In the United States, Sami collaborated with the International WOW Company and performed at the Arab American Comedy Festival, the International Humana Festival, and the Children’s Museum. Two of his original short plays, Souvenir and Maklubeh, were also produced on American stages, showcasing his ability to craft stories that resonate universally.

His journey continued in the UK, where he became a resident artist at Red Ladder Theatre. There, he co-wrote, directed, and co-produced Sunlight at Midnight. One of his proudest moments came when he performed as King Richard II at the Globe Theatre in London, earning recognition from British critics for his powerful portrayal.

Sami returned to Palestine to take on lead roles in Holiday and Roses & Jasmin, productions that bridged Palestinian and American voices. His screen credits reflect his versatility as an actor, with roles in films such as Love, Theft, and Other Entanglements (screened in European cinemas), Dreams I’ve Never Had, Oversized Coat, Behind the Sun (Turning Point), Gaza-London, and The Spider Web. On television, he appeared in series including Warak AlWarrd (Rose’s Petals), Jerusalem Gate, We Disagree, and Haleemyat.

Sami’s work reflects a deep belief in the power of storytelling to connect people, preserve cultural identity, and spark meaningful dialogue. Whether on stage, on screen, or in the community, his art is rooted in his own journey of resilience and a profound commitment to amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.

“Theatre and Drama was the platform that helped me save my self, my life, heal and create a voice. I was blessed that Ι was able to see clearly then, that my only choice was in a creative domain despite the big challenges I was facing, the rejection of my family, the abuse, the war and the limited resources and opportunities that surrounded me. I was determent to find a way to be part of this world. And I am grateful to all the people who supported me, and the great talents and leaders that got me inspired to move on”. SM

FILM

Love, Theft and Other Entanglement -Movie 2015

Oversized Coat-Movie-2011

Dreams I never Had- Movie 2018

Rana’s Wedding- Movie 2000