The Malas Twins (Ahmad and Mohammad Malas) are Syrian actors, writers, and theatre-makers known for their bold, politically engaged storytelling and distinctive twin dynamic on stage and screen.

Trained in Damascus, they began their careers in theatre, writing and performing original Arabic-language plays. Over more than a decade, they created and staged over 200 performances, developing a style that blends physical theatre, satire, and socially driven narratives.

They gained recognition as influential voices during the Syrian uprising, using performance as a form of artistic resistance. Their work—sometimes described as “clowns of the revolution”—combined humor, absurdity, and political critique, contributing to a new wave of Syrian oppositional theatre.

Following political persecution in 2011, the twins were forced into exile, moving through Lebanon and Egypt before settling in France, where they rebuilt their careers internationally. There, they created the acclaimed play The Two Refugees, inspired by their personal journey, which toured globally from the Middle East to Europe and Asia.

In addition to theatre, the Malas Twins have expanded into film and audiovisual work, including short films such as Syrians in Wonderland and The Odor of Orange, continuing to explore themes of identity, displacement, and memory through a cinematic lens.

After more than a decade abroad, they recently returned to Syria while maintaining strong ties to France, working between both countries to contribute to the revival of independent theatre and storytelling in the region.

With a unique artistic voice shaped by exile, resilience, and cultural duality, the Malas Twins create emotionally charged, visually expressive work that bridges theatre and film, and resonates with audiences worldwide.

Training

• Pascal Luneau – Acting Course (2022)

• Régis Mardon – License 2 Play Casting Masterclass (2020)

• Jean-Yves Ruf – Directing Workshop (2019)

• Tal’at Alsamawi – Theatre & Scenario Workshops

• Mowafak Masood – Acting Workshops

• Ornina Art Institute, Damascus

• Al-Mohtaraf Art Institute, Damascus

Languages

• Arabic (native)

• French (fluent)

• English (working proficiency)