The Cairo International Drum Festival: A Bewitching Journey Through the Rhythms of the World
In the heart of vibrant Cairo, the International Festival of Drums and Traditional Arts opened this week, an exceptional celebration bringing together nearly 40 folk troupes from the four corners of the globe. The 11th edition of this long-awaited event kicked off in style in the historic Egyptian capital and will continue until the end of the week, promising a spectacle full of color and sound.
Among the many groups present were a Palestinian troupe who came to share their art, as well as representatives from countries as diverse as Japan, China and India. More than 30 troops from across Egypt also responded to this festive call.
Spectators were transported by the cheerful performances of Egyptian artists, revisiting popular songs that resonated in everyone’s hearts. This cultural gathering, founded in 2009, has the primary objective of transmitting a message of peace through spiritual music.
“The drums were a great way to bring everyone together. There was a message of peace and unity that we loved,” shares Anouk Honoré, a French participant won over by the show.
At the heart of this meeting between cultures, the festival highlights drums, instruments formerly used on the battlefields. The founder thus chose to take an instrument originally intended for war to make it the symbol of art and peace.
“We try as much as possible to communicate in a human way with the cultures of the world to highlight love, forgiveness and peace,” explains Intisar Abdel Fattah, the founder and director of the festival.
The performances take place in carefully selected historical and cultural sites, providing a magical setting for this ode to drums and traditional arts. “I am very proud of Egypt for organizing such an event, allowing us to enjoy the varied cultures of countries around the world,” enthusiastically shares Manal Kamal, an amazed spectator.
The Cairo International Drum Festival, much more than a simple artistic celebration, is a true invitation to a captivating journey through the rhythms of the world, carrying with it the hope and promise of a more harmonious and united world. music and culture.