Nibras means lantern in classical Arabic. Over time the word has also come to represent truth, enlightenment, inspiration, civilization, wisdom and justice. Because it is a hand-held lantern, Nibras symbolizes a source of light which travelers themselves carry to illuminate their path and guide them on their journey.

Founded in June 2001, Nibras is an Arab-American theater collective built upon a shared passion and united by a common heritage. Our mission is to create a network for Arab-American theater artists to share their talent, experience and passion by staging imaginative and articulate productions that increase the positive visibility and creative expression of Arabs and Arab-Americans. It is our belief that by fostering an understanding of the Arab experience in America, we can begin to create a greater understanding between all the communities that form the rich and intricate web of American culture.