Latest news with #UmmKulthum
Egypt Independent
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Independent
Qasr el-Nil theater set to host ‘Sound and Image' Umm Kulthum show on Thursday
The 'Sound and Image' music show is preparing to present its first night in Cairo, following its huge success during the Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia. Taking take place on Thursday at the iconic stage of the Qasr el-Nil Cinema, massive preparations are underway to transform the theater into a 'time machine' back to the golden age of Arabic music. The show will embody the life and career of the Star of the East, Umm Kulthum, through a live performance by Marwa Nagy, who will perform a selection of Umm Kulthum's timeless songs. This blends powerful vocals with dramatic narration and visual effects, bringing the spirit of the popular singer back to life on stage. The show is written by Mohamed Zaki and directed by Mostafa Abdel-Salam, with Marwa Nagy co-presenting the show with a group of artists. In statements reported by the Egyptian newspaper al-Shorouk, Zaki said that the reason the show was called 'Sound and Image' is because it combines live singing and acting. He explained that the audience will see Nagy transform into Umm Kulthum through makeup and costume work, as if the audience were experiencing a night with the Star of the East and her band, but with Nagy's voice and performance. Nagy said, 'The show is not just a tribute to the icon of Arab singing, but rather a visual musical experience that blends voice, story, and amazement, recounting the details of her artistic journey.' The audience will witness an unprecedented performance that evokes the fragrance of the past and recreates the features of that beautiful era, she said. Nagy, as Umm Kulthum, will perform a new song, composed specifically for the show on the same stage where Kalthum last performed in 1973: the venerable Qasr el-Nil Theater. Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
CairoScene
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Rotterdam Arab Film Festival to Honour Umm Kulthum in 2025 Edition
Running from May 28th to June 1st, the 25th Rotterdam Arab Film Festival will honour singer Umm Kulthum as part of its 'Year of Women' initiative, featuring over 37 films and a female-majority jury. May 23, 2025 The Rotterdam Arab Film Festival is set to celebrate its 25th edition from May 28th to June 1st with a special tribute to Umm Kulthum, one of the Arab world's most influential cultural figures. This year's programme falls under the theme 'Year of Women', placing a spotlight on women's contributions to Arab cinema—past and present. As part of the tribute, the festival will honour Umm Kulthum's enduring artistic legacy through film and conversation, recognising her as a pioneering figure whose work transcended music to shape the cultural imagination of the region. This edition will feature over 37 films and will be judged by a predominantly female jury of directors, producers, editors and actors. Among the prominent names taking part are Syrian actress Amal Arafa, Egyptian star Salwa Mohamed Ali, Saudi actress Fatima AlBanawi, and Saudi director-producer Razan Al-Sagheer.
See - Sada Elbalad
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Asser Yassin to Guest Star Umm Kulthum Biopic "El Set"
Yara Sameh Egyptian actor Asser Yassin will guest star in Mona Zaki's upcoming Umm Kulthum biopic "El Set". Mohamed Farag, Ahmed Khaled Saleh, Tamer Nabil, and Sayed Ragab are also set to star in the pic. "El Set" also features a slew of guest stars, including Ahmed Helmy, Amr Saad, Karim Abdel Aziz, Nelly Karim, and Amina Khalil. Marwan Hamed is directing the pic from a script by Ahmed Mourad. The film comes as part of the "Big Time" Investment Fund that aims to raise the quality of Arabic content and filmmaking. The fund is sponsored by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and co-sponsored by the Ministry of Culture. It invests in the most important Saudi, Gulf, and Arab films by the biggest stars of the Arab world. Born on December 31, 1898, Umm Kulthum has no equivalent among singers in the world and represented the soul of the pan-Arab world for decades. Her potent contralto, which could blur gender in its lower register, conveyed breathtaking emotional range in complex songs that, across theme and wildly-ornamented variations, could easily last an hour. Her death on February 3, 1975, brought millions into the Cairo streets to mourn, and while her influence among Arab singers is incalculable, it extended far beyond it. read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
Egypt Today
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Today
Fayrouz Karawya Pays Tribute to Umm Kulthum at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair & Prepares to Release New Music
Artist Fayrouz Karawya honored the 50th anniversary of the legendary Umm Kulthum's passing by leading a special session at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, where she also performed excerpts from two of Umm Kulthum's iconic songs, 'Fakkarouni' and 'Hadhihi Laylati', in a touching moment that resonated deeply with the audience. The session was held to celebrate the launch of the book 'Umm Kulthum: From Birth to Legend', written by Hassan Abdel Mawgowd and published by Diwan Publishing House in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Center for the Arabic Language. Fayrouz was officially invited by the fair to moderate the event, during which she highlighted key milestones in Umm Kulthum's life—from her early beginnings to her rise as an enduring icon of Arab culture and music. Karawya expressed her joy in participating in this prestigious cultural event, noting that 'speaking about Umm Kulthum is, in essence, a conversation about identity, beauty, and a timeless voice that continues to inspire.' On another note, Fayrouz Karawya is currently preparing to announce the release of a new collection of original songs, as part of her ongoing artistic project that blends musical depth with a modern vision.
Egypt Today
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Today
To the Timeless Voice of Umm Kulthum, the 9th Aswan International Women Film Festival Kicks Off with Honors to Lebleba and Kinda Alloush
Set against the enchanting voice of the legendary Kawkab El Sharq Umm Kulthum, the 9th edition of the Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) launched on the evening of Friday, May 2nd. This year's edition pays tribute to the iconic singer, marking 50 years since her passing, and celebrates her enduring legacy not only as a voice but as a cinematic figure who addressed women's issues through film. TV presenter Jasmine Taha Zaki opened the ceremony, unveiling several surprises for this edition — including the launch of a 'Films of the South' competition and events taking place across Aswan in public libraries, gardens, and open-air venues with music, circus performances, and public talks. Jasmine noted that Umm Kulthum is honored not just for her music, but also for her pioneering work in cinema portraying women's stories. This year, the festival features 72 films from 34 countries and hosts competitions for feature films, shorts, impact films, EU films, Aswan workshop films, and the new Southern Cinema segment. Actress Dalia El Behairy delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing pride in attending the festival in the majestic city of Aswan — a place where women have held stature from Pharaonic times to the present. She emphasized the importance of cinema in empowering women and urged for a more just and equal world. Festival Director Hassan Abu El-Ala described this year's edition as a deeply special one, carrying the name of the Arab world's greatest artist. He highlighted how the festival extends into the streets and public spaces of Aswan and thanked the Ministry of Culture, Aswan Governorate, the Ministry of Tourism, EgyptAir, the National Council for Women, the EU, UN Women, and others for their support. Dr. Azza Kamel, Vice Chair of the Festival's Board of Trustees and Head of the NUT Forum for Women's Issues, called this edition 'exceptional' for bearing Umm Kulthum's name. 'She was the voice, the power, and the unifier of the Arab world — a symbol of resilience, courage, and resistance,' said Kamel. She dedicated this edition to every creative woman rewriting the narrative about gender and justice. Festival President Mohamed Abdel Khaleq described the 9th edition as a prelude to an even more expansive 10th edition, emphasizing the mission to make cinema accessible to all. Ambassador Dr. Mervat Tallawy, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised the festival's alignment with the national agenda to empower women and stressed cinema's role in shifting awareness. She also honored the resilience of Gazan women and children through the symbolic presence of their stories. Judge Amal Ammar of the National Council for Women highlighted art as more than entertainment — a powerful bridge between cultures. She praised Umm Kulthum as a lasting national icon and urged guests to enjoy the rich cinematic and musical program. Angelina Eichhorst, Head of the EU Delegation to Egypt and the Arab World, expressed joy at attending the opening in Aswan. She spoke about the EU's commitment to supporting women, cinema, and nature, and called Umm Kulthum an icon who represented Arab culture worldwide. Governor Ismail Kamal welcomed the attendees, affirming the central role of women in Aswan's society. Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhy highlighted Aswan's heritage and Egyptian cinema's enduring legacy, underlining Egypt's dedication to empowering both women and youth. The festival honored Syrian actress Kinda Alloush for her rich portrayals of women, to which she responded with heartfelt thanks, saying she considers Egypt her second home and is always enchanted by Aswan's beauty. Dutch filmmaker Elisabeth Francke was also honored for her impactful documentaries. She expressed gratitude for being part of the festival, praised the global power of film to inspire change, and raised a Palestinian scarf in solidarity with Palestine. The festival also paid tribute to Egyptian star Lebleba, who voiced pride in receiving an award during a festival named after Umm Kulthum. Having starred in 97 films, she emphasized her lifelong commitment to delivering meaningful messages through her work and thanked the people of Aswan for their warm welcome. In a recorded message, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, affirmed the role of art in awakening consciousness, calling for cinema that deepens national belonging and supports women's causes. To the Timeless Voice of Umm Kulthum, the 9th Aswan International Women Film Festival Kicks Off with Honors to Lebleba and Kinda Alloush Set against the enchanting voice of the legendary Kawkab El Sharq Umm Kulthum, the 9th edition of the Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) launched on the evening of Friday, May 2nd. This year's edition pays tribute to the iconic singer, marking 50 years since her passing, and celebrates her enduring legacy not only as a voice but as a cinematic figure who addressed women's issues through film. TV presenter Jasmine Taha Zaki opened the ceremony, unveiling several surprises for this edition — including the launch of a 'Films of the South' competition and events taking place across Aswan in public libraries, gardens, and open-air venues with music, circus performances, and public talks. Jasmine noted that Umm Kulthum is honored not just for her music, but also for her pioneering work in cinema portraying women's stories. This year, the festival features 72 films from 34 countries and hosts competitions for feature films, shorts, impact films, EU films, Aswan workshop films, and the new Southern Cinema segment. Actress Dalia El Behairy delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing pride in attending the festival in the majestic city of Aswan — a place where women have held stature from Pharaonic times to the present. She emphasized the importance of cinema in empowering women and urged for a more just and equal world. Festival Director Hassan Abu El-Ala described this year's edition as a deeply special one, carrying the name of the Arab world's greatest artist. He highlighted how the festival extends into the streets and public spaces of Aswan and thanked the Ministry of Culture, Aswan Governorate, the Ministry of Tourism, EgyptAir, the National Council for Women, the EU, UN Women, and others for their support. Dr. Azza Kamel, Vice Chair of the Festival's Board of Trustees and Head of the NUT Forum for Women's Issues, called this edition 'exceptional' for bearing Umm Kulthum's name. 'She was the voice, the power, and the unifier of the Arab world — a symbol of resilience, courage, and resistance,' said Kamel. She dedicated this edition to every creative woman rewriting the narrative about gender and justice. Festival President Mohamed Abdel Khaleq described the 9th edition as a prelude to an even more expansive 10th edition, emphasizing the mission to make cinema accessible to all. Ambassador Dr. Mervat Tallawy, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised the festival's alignment with the national agenda to empower women and stressed cinema's role in shifting awareness. She also honored the resilience of Gazan women and children through the symbolic presence of their stories. Judge Amal Ammar of the National Council for Women highlighted art as more than entertainment — a powerful bridge between cultures. She praised Umm Kulthum as a lasting national icon and urged guests to enjoy the rich cinematic and musical program. Angelina Eichhorst, Head of the EU Delegation to Egypt and the Arab World, expressed joy at attending the opening in Aswan. She spoke about the EU's commitment to supporting women, cinema, and nature, and called Umm Kulthum an icon who represented Arab culture worldwide. Governor Ismail Kamal welcomed the attendees, affirming the central role of women in Aswan's society. Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhy highlighted Aswan's heritage and Egyptian cinema's enduring legacy, underlining Egypt's dedication to empowering both women and youth. The festival honored Syrian actress Kinda Alloush for her rich portrayals of women, to which she responded with heartfelt thanks, saying she considers Egypt her second home and is always enchanted by Aswan's beauty. Dutch filmmaker Elisabeth Francke was also honored for her impactful documentaries. She expressed gratitude for being part of the festival, praised the global power of film to inspire change, and raised a Palestinian scarf in solidarity with Palestine. The festival also paid tribute to Egyptian star Lebleba, who voiced pride in receiving an award during a festival named after Umm Kulthum. Having starred in 97 films, she emphasized her lifelong commitment to delivering meaningful messages through her work and thanked the people of Aswan for their warm welcome. In a recorded message, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, affirmed the role of art in awakening consciousness, calling for cinema that deepens national belonging and supports women's causes. ⸻
