The 26th Arab Radio and Television Festival is set to commence today in Tunisia, with approximately 500 guests from across the Arab world arriving over the past two days. The majority of activities will take place in the city of Hammamet, a decision that proved successful in its inaugural year. This move adds a tourism dimension to the festival, allowing participants to experience Tunisia's rich cultural heritage.
Imed Ktata, head of communication and media at the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU), confirmed the start of the festival, highlighting the success of last year's experiment in holding most activities in Hammamet. The festival's opening ceremony will be held at the ancient Theatre of Carthage, featuring a joint performance by Syrian artist Nassif Zeytoun and Iraqi artist Rahma Riad. This event marks a first-time collaboration between the two artists.
The festival will also pay tribute to 12 Arab creators, including Tunisian actress Latifa Gafsi and Egyptian actor Mohamed Tharwat. The opening ceremony will be hosted by Tunisian journalist Farah Ben Rejab and Egyptian journalist Yasmine Taha. The closing ceremony, scheduled for next Thursday at the Opera Theatre in the City of Culture, will be presented by an Iraqi host.
The festival's closing ceremony will comprise two main segments: the announcement of winners in radio and television competitions, and an exclusive artistic performance titled "Voyager vers toi et chanter" (Safir Ilayka wa Ghanni). This production is a collaboration between ASBU and Tunisian musicians, featuring an orchestra of 65 musicians and six singers from six Arab countries.
The artistic performance, conceived by Karim Thlibi and directed by Rassem Damak, explores the aesthetics of Arab "Mawal" through varied vocal registers, showcasing the musical richness of the Arab world. The performance features Hanine El Shater (Egypt), Yaacoub Shahin (Palestine), Abdullah Tariq (Kuwait), Mamoun Sawar El Dahab (Sudan), Ksaila Igerad (Algeria), and Firas Fayed (Oman).
Imed Ktata expressed his appreciation for the cooperation between ASBU and its Tunisian partners, including the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Tunisian Television, Tunisian Radio, and Arabsat. He emphasized the importance of representing all Arab countries in the festival, aligning with its unifying spirit.
The festival's program includes various activities and events that celebrate Arab culture and creativity. With its mix of artistic performances, tributes, and competitions, the 26th Arab Radio and Television Festival aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding among Arab nations.
Key points
- The festival features an exclusive artistic performance titled "Voyager vers toi et chanter" (Safir Ilayka wa Ghanni), produced by ASBU.
- The festival will pay tribute to 12 Arab creators, including Tunisian actress Latifa Gafsi and Egyptian actor Mohamed Tharwat.
- The event aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding among Arab nations through its various activities and events.
