The head of Egypt's Opera House, Dr. Reza El-Wakil, has resigned amid a controversy surrounding the 34th Arab Music Festival. The festival, scheduled for October 20-30, 2026, has faced a backlash after several prominent artists, including Mohamed Tharwat, announced they would not participate. The controversy began at a press conference where El-Wakil outlined the festival's details, leading to a wave of criticism and withdrawals.
Mohamed Tharwat was one of the first artists to announce his withdrawal, citing disrespect for Egyptian artists and the festival's organization. He expressed his disappointment with the festival's planning and stated that he would not participate in what he saw as an insult to Egyptian art. Tharwat emphasized that his decision was not related to financial issues, as he had previously performed at several events without payment.
Tharwat's decision was followed by other artists, including Ali El-Haggar, who also cited financial issues with the Opera House as the reason for his withdrawal. El-Haggar stated that the Opera House had offered a meager and demeaning budget for the accompanying musical band, which he refused to accept. This was the first time El-Haggar had missed the festival since its inception.
Mi Farouk, another Egyptian singer, denied reports that she would be performing at the festival. She expressed her support for Tharwat's decision and shared his statement on social media. The withdrawals have raised questions about the festival's organization and the Opera House's management.
The controversy has led to significant changes, with Dr. Reza El-Wakil announcing his resignation as head of the Opera House. El-Wakil stated that he had decided to leave to avoid any interference in his artistic choices and to preserve his relationships with colleagues and friends. He expressed his regret and appreciation for the experience.
The Arab Music Festival has faced criticism for its handling of artist participation and financial issues. The festival's organization and the Opera House's management have been questioned, leading to increased scrutiny of their decisions. The resignations and withdrawals highlight the challenges faced by cultural institutions in Egypt.
The future of the Arab Music Festival and the Opera House remains uncertain, with many questions about the upcoming event and the appointment of a new Opera House head. The controversy has sparked a wider debate about the importance of respecting artists and the need for transparent and fair management of cultural institutions.
Key points
- Dr. Reza El-Wakil resigned as head of Egypt's Opera House amid controversy over the Arab Music Festival.
- Several artists, including Mohamed Tharwat and Ali El-Haggar, withdrew from the festival citing disrespect and financial issues.
- The controversy has raised questions about the festival's organization and the Opera House's management.
