In this episode of Tarwida, we sit down with Palestinian comedian Alaa Abu Diab for a sharp, poignant, and darkly witty conversation. We talk stand-up comedy as a craft: how jokes are built, why cities develop different humors, and what it means to laugh from inside catastrophe- not as escape, but as confrontation.

Alaa also shares insights about his latest shows, including “Virtual Reality”, which is currently touring across Europe and the Arab region. He reflects on how live performance creates an intimate space for collective reflection and release.

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This episode is hosted and produced by Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Our associate producer is Zeena Shehadeh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Dima Sharif. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. 

This conversation was conducted in Arabic and recorded on November 30, 2025. You can watch it with English subtitles on YouTube through this link. 

Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture, and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists, including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners, and more, about their very own Palestine.  

In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. 

Follow us on socials @tarwidapodcast

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Relevant links and Resources: 

• Follow Alaa Abu Diab on Instagram (@alaabudiab)
• Book your tickets to Alaa’s upcoming shows
• Learn more about Ghassan Kanafani
• Follow Palestinian comedians:
• Ayman Nahhas 
• Hanna Shammas

Relevant Tarwida Episodes:

Listen to our episode with Maysoon Zayid