Published in Maadi Messenger.
Almost three months of a significant slow down in the classical music scene in Egypt, Saturday, September 19th brought an official kick-off of the new 2009/2010 season. Cairo Symphony Orchestra performed Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, which is beloved by Egyptian audiences.
This is only the beginning of a very promising season to which we are invited by a variety of artists and their concerts. Maadi Messenger has already developed a solid base of articles and news related to the classical music field in Egypt, a sector which is much bigger and much more vibrant than you could imagine.
In Cairo, the Cairo Opera House (Zamalek) is one of the ultimate locations providing classical music performances. Main Hall, Small Hall, Open Air Theater offer many performances: symphonic and chamber concerts, operas, ballets, recitals, etc. Moreover, in the past couple of years, even the entrance hall of the Opera House has served as an original location for concerts. Keep checking the Cairo Opera House program for details. Cairo Opera House: www.cairoopera.org and Cairo Symphony Orchestra: www.cairo-symphony.com .
Another crucial location for classical music in Cairo is Prince Mohamed Ali Palace, currently hosting its concerts in its Golden Hall. This palace, located in Manial, not only houses crème de la crème performers, but its architectural and historical richness offers an additional delight to audiences. Keep checking their program at www.manasterly.com. Their website already announces a new season inauguration concert on October 18th!
But that’s not all. El Sawy Culturewheel (El Sakia) in Zamalek, El Geneina Theater in Al Azhar Park, American University in Cairo, as well as other venues, hold many artistic activities as well classical music performances. Stay updated with their activities and programs.
As for Alexandria, we must not forget the Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Library of Alexandria) offering regular classical music concerts along with many other music (and art in general) activities. Their website is www.bibalex.gov.eg . Another location performing classical music in Alexandria is the Sayed Darwish Theatre, often hosting Cairo Symphony Orchestra. If you happen to travel to Alexandria, do not forget to check events taking place in this beautiful city.
Last but not least, even Damanhour, a city in Western Delta which is famous for the discovery of the Rosetta Stone, is reviving its cultural activities. Last May was marked by an inauguration of a new Opera House in Al-Nasr Winter Cinema, a Damanhour city cultural landmark. The palace was built in 1930 to house theater, library and cinema. Damanhour Opera house promises a variety of interesting music and other art activities in the coming season. Definitely worth checking it out!
Ati Metwaly 