Southern Ardah in Al-Baha showcases rich Saudi folk heritage

The southern Ardah in Al-Baha is a form of performing art distinguished by its close connection to daily life. It is a creative expression of emotion and heritage, a language with its own alphabet drawn from rhythms, body movements, and gestures.

Ali Khamis Al-Baydani, director of the Al-Baha branch of the Saudi Society for Culture and Arts, explained that Ardah is a centuries-old tradition reflecting the heritage and identity of the community, passed down through generations. Over the years, it has evolved into its current vibrant form, celebrated for its captivating performances and eloquent poetry, encapsulating traditions and the artistry of poets.

He noted that the region is home to 12 folk groups with more than 350 members from across Al-Baha. The society is working to document and revive fading arts such as Harmoj, Mahshoush, Samer, La’b, Mashhabani, Turuq Al-Jabal, and Majalesi. The Al-Baha branch organizes festivals and special events to ensure these traditions remain part of national, social, and tourism occasions in the region.

Faisal Wazi, head of the society’s folk troupe, said the southern Ardah relies on coordinated performance, attire, and strong group presence. It features one or more poets accompanied by the zir drum, with participants forming lines of varying numbers. Performers may carry swords, rifles, or daggers, moving in measured steps in pairs in a circular motion, then returning to a single circular line. The performance includes facing off in the center, following the lead performers in choreographed movements, pausing for poetic exchanges, and then resuming the dance.

Mohammed Rabie, a member of the Al-Baha Society for Culture and Arts, said the instruments used in Ardah vary. The zir (a cylindrical drum) is sometimes accompanied by the barzan (a wind instrument), when available. In La’b, the zir is paired with a smaller percussion instrument called the hilla, and most Ardah participants carry a medium-framed tambourine. Rabie added that the creative beauty of Ardah is enhanced by the smoke of gunpowder filling the sky, complementing the costumes and choreography, while poets recite stirring verses that energize both performers and audience.

Al-Baha is renowned for its rich and diverse folk heritage, with the southern Ardah considered the queen of local arts. Other traditions, such as La’b, Mashhabani, Labeini, Majalesi, and Turuq Al-Jabal, also reflect the identity and history of the region’s people during festivals and national or social occasions.