Mark your calendars! From September 26th to 29th, Cairo will come alive with the fourth edition of SheArts, an extraordinary festival celebrating the creativity and talent of women artists from around the globe. Hosted at the American University in Cairo’s Tahrir Square, the French Institute in Alexandria, and the Jesuit Cultural Center in Alexandria, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience.
SheArts 2024 will showcase the work of over 100 female artists representing ten different countries. It highlights the diverse voices and perspectives that women bring to the arts. Attendees can look forward to a rich program packed with performances, workshops, and exhibitions.
Festival-goers can enjoy a variety of events, including live concerts, immersive workshops, a captivating photo exhibition, and a bazaar. Additionally, there will be competitions that encourage emerging talent and film screenings that shine a light on women’s stories and experiences. For those looking for a good laugh, the festival will also feature stand-up comedy, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of events happening at SheArts 2024 that we can’t wait to attend!
Opening Concert: SheArts Orchestra presents Umm Kulthum
This year, the festival celebrates the centenary of the legendary Umm Kulthum with an orchestral opening performance. It will feature Marwa Nagy. It is conducted by Donia Akram, with special guest Magda Reda. Marwa Nagy is a renowned Egyptian singer at the Cairo Opera House. She gained prominence for her role in the international series “Looking for Oum Kulthum.” She masterfully performed songs by the legendary Umm Kulthum. Magda Reda is an award-winning composer, conductor, and music trainer for artists with special needs. Donia Akram is a young conductor from Alexandria, trained in Egypt and the UK. She has led choirs and orchestras in various prestigious venues.
Singing Masterclass with Farrah El Dibany
World-renowned opera singer Farrah El Dibany will host an exclusive masterclass open to young singers (both beginners and advanced). Singers can participate either actively or passively. The masterclass will include breathing and singing exercises, vocal techniques for any musical style, and insights on studying abroad and building a global career in music.
Youssra El Hawary Concert
Youssra El Hawary is an Egyptian accordionist, composer, songwriter, singer and sound designer. She’s been composing her own music since 2010. She is known for her unique style that blends Alternative Folk, French chanson, indie rock, and jazz. Her songs reflect everyday life in Cairo and its vibrant energy.
Nouran Abutaleb Concert
Nouran Abutaleb is an Egyptian singer who began her music career in 2020 after studying law and working in social development. She gained recognition with her unique take on popular Arabic songs, including “Ya Ghali.” Nouran has collaborated with international musicians and performed at global festivals.
Dance & Soul Workshop by Reem Hegab
Participants will explore deep ways to connect with their bodies, utilizing techniques from contemporary dance, yoga, physical theater, and martial arts. Reem Hegab is a director, choreographer, writer, performer, and contemporary dance teacher with an M.A. in Choreography from Middlesex University, London. She founded MALH, an independent performing arts group, and has created over 25 dance and theater performances. Hegab has taught dance and theater, developed curricula, and led workshops in various contexts.
Improvisation Performance by Irtigalia Honna
Irtigalia Cairo, founded by Ramsi Lehner, presents the all-women improv show Irtigalia Honna at Falaki Theater. Get ready for a unique and fun experience of improvisation and audience interaction!
Gold Mass Concert
Gold Mass is a physicist-turned-independent electronic artist. In 2021, she was recognized as one of Europe’s top emerging talents at the Eurosonic festival. Her work features rarefied sounds and explosive atmospheres, exploring dark, minimal territories with a magnetic vocal presence. Her debut album, “Transitions,” caught the attention of international producers like Howie B and Marc Urselli, who produced her first record. She has delivered intense live performances across several European countries.
Dawat Al-Sahla Dance Performance
Dawat Al-Sahla is a performance exploring the Sudanese bride dance and discussing contrasting opinions about it in contemporary times. Choreography and concept by Hadeel Al-Hadi Abdullah, directed by Lina Kamal Fadlallah, with music by Lama Kamal Fadlallah.
SheArts is more than just a festival; it’s a movement that amplifies women’s voices and fosters a sense of community among artists and audiences alike. It serves as a platform for dialogue, creativity, and empowerment, encouraging women to share their narratives and connect through the universal language of art.
Whether you’re an artist or an art lover, this festival invites you to be part of it. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to witness the power of women in art.