The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

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The 22nd edition of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Summer Festival is taking place from August 7 to 31, promising an exciting month of music and cultural celebration along the Mediterranean coast. As the audiences look ahead, the festival stirs anticipation with a diverse lineup of performances, ranging from classical opera and Arabic rock to comedy and spiritual chants. Here are some of these exciting performances.

Medhat Saleh: Opening Night with the Legend

On August 7, Egyptian icon Medhat Saleh is set to kick off the festivities with a nostalgic yet dynamic performance, backed by a full orchestra. His legendary voice and charismatic stage presence are known to electrify any opening night, setting the tone for the rest of the festival.

Hamza Namira: The Voice of a Generation

The excitement continues on August 9, when Hamza Namira, a voice for a generation, takes to the stage. Known for his socially conscious lyrics and heartfelt melodies, Namira is anticipated to connect deeply with the audience, echoing the spirit of resilience and aspiration that defines much of modern Egypt.

Christine Magdy: The Opera Sensation

On August 10, opera sensation Christine Magdy is bringing her vocal mastery and dramatic flair to the stage. Her performance is expected to dazzle fans of classical music with emotional intensity and operatic elegance.

Omar Khairat: The Master of Musical Emotion

A double feature on August 12 and 13 will spotlight maestro Omar Khairat, whose compositions have long been the soundtrack to Egyptian life. His piano performances are expected to transport listeners through rich emotional landscapes.

Samar Tarek: Rising Musical Star

Later on August 13, rising star Samar Tarek will showcase her contemporary style, connecting with younger fans through a blend of authenticity and modern flair.

Andromida: Egypt’s Progressive Rock Pioneers

Expect a dose of nostalgia on August 14 with Andromida, Egypt’s oldest progressive rock band. Since their formation in 1987, they’ve carved out a unique place in the Egyptian music scene, and their upcoming performance promises an energetic, genre-bending experience.

Omar El Gamal: Laughs on Stage

Laughter will take centre stage on August 16 with stand-up comedian Omar El Gamal, who is expected to deliver punchy and relatable humour.

Hafez and Bostan: The Musical Duo

Two days later, on August 18, the harmonious duo Hafez and Bostan will enchant the audience with their musical chemistry and artistry.

Aida El Ayoubi: The Legendary Songstress

The spotlight turns to legendary singer Aida El Ayoubi on August 19. Her warm vocals and timeless hits are expected to create an unforgettable evening of music and nostalgia.

Marwa Nagy: Opera’s Modern Face

Following this, on August 23, opera star Marwa Nagy, also known from The Voice, will captivate the audience with a fusion of power and emotion.

Jadal: The Arabic Rock Innovators

The Arabic rock scene will take over on August 24 with Jordanian band Jadal, whose bold fusion of rock and traditional melodies continues to redefine the region’s musical boundaries.

Fouad & Mounib: A Cross-Continental Collaboration

The following night, on August 25, the duo Fouad & Mounib, who first connected online, will bring an eclectic cross-cultural collaboration that blends Western and Arabic influences.

El Hadra: Sufi Spirituality in Song

Spirituality meets music on August 28 with El Hadra, known for their moving renditions of Sufi chants. Their performance is expected to deliver a meditative, transcendent experience.

Bahgaga Band: Humour in Harmony

On August 29, the all-women Bahgaga Band will combine comedy and music, delivering laughter, rhythm, and an empowering stage presence.

Aziz Maraka: The Creator of “Razz”

Finally, on August 31, the festival will close with a performance by Aziz Maraka, the Jordanian artist behind the genre-bending style “Razz.” His rock-jazz fusion, infused with Arabic soul, is expected to end the festival on a high note of creative energy and cultural fusion.

Ready to Book?

Tickets can be booked through the Bibliotheca Alexandrina website or directly at the library’s ticket counters in Alexandria. The ticket prices vary depending on each concert, with most ranging from EGP 50 to 200, making the event accessible to a broad audience. Make sure also to check the whole programme from this link.