The Alamein Festival, a major cultural event organised by United Media Services (UMS) under the esteemed patronage of Dr. Ahmed Hano, Egypt’s Minister of Culture, recently took place, celebrating the vibrant artistic and musical heritage of Egypt. This year’s festival showcased a diverse array of folkloric performances from various regions of Egypt, highlighting the country’s rich cultural tapestry and its historical depth.
Highlights from the Festival
Arab Opera Troupe
the leadership of Mohamed Mostafa, the Arab Opera troupe captivated audiences with performances based on classic Egyptian songs, theatrical plays, and films. The troupe’s reinterpretations featured fresh musical arrangements that breathed new life into beloved Egyptian classics. A special segment for children included popular songs that delighted the younger audience, adding a family-friendly dimension to the festival.
Ismailia Troupe
The Ismailia troupe celebrated the folklore of the Suez Canal region with performances including “The Saayaden” and “Betghani l meen ya hamam.” These acts highlighted the rich cultural traditions of the region. Richness of Ismailia and contributed significantly to the festival’s diverse representation of Egyptian folklore.
Aswan Folk Arts Team
Led by Medhat Mahram, the Aswan Folk Arts team presented Nubian folkloric pieces including “Al-Arajeed” and “Al-Najrashad.” Their performance featured musical interludes by renowned artists Hamada Harby and Omar Mustafa, celebrating Aswan’s cultural heritage and historical significance in a vibrant display of Nubian tradition.
Freedom Team
The Alexandria-based Freedom team, under Nasreldin Mohamed’s direction, performed traditional dances such as the “Banat Bahry” and “Alexandrian Wedding Procession.” These performances vividly illustrated Alexandria’s rich cultural heritage and added a dynamic element to the festival’s diverse offerings.
Assiut City Folk Arts Team
The Assiut City Folk Arts team showcased traditional performances from the Assiut governorate, including “Al-‘Asaayah,” “Al-Tahmilah,” and “Arouset El-Mawlid.” Their acts reflected Assiut’s historical influences, drawing from Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods, and offered a deep dive into the region’s cultural evolution.
Reda Troupe
The iconic Reda Troupe delivered a lively array of Egyptian folkloric dances, including performances of “Dhaheya” and “Al-Hejala.” Their contribution was a celebration of Egypt’s diverse governorates, underscoring the festival’s dedication to showcasing the country’s wide-ranging cultural heritage.
Palestinian Folklore Segment
The festival showcased Palestinian heritage with a special concert featuring renowned singer Mohamed Mounir and Dina El-Wedidi. Performed the operetta “Ragieen” and the renowned song “Leve Palestina,” accompanied by a Palestinian dance troupe in traditional costumes. This segment was a powerful tribute to the shared cultural bonds between Egypt and Palestine, enhancing the festival’s role as a symbol of regional cultural unity.
Additional Festival Features
The 2024 edition of the New Alamein Festival also included a variety of activities such as theatrical performances by well-known producers, football matches featuring legends and star players, and significant investment initiatives. The festival was marked by visits from Egyptian ministers and collaborative efforts with UMS, affirming its status as a prominent cultural event in the region.
The Alamein Festival not only celebrated Egypt’s rich cultural heritage but also demonstrated the enduring cultural ties between Egypt and Palestine, making it a memorable event for all who attended.
