14e Festival culturel national des Aïssaoua à Mila: 12 wilayas au rendez-vous
14th Edition of the National Aïssaoua Cultural Festival in Mila
The 14th Edition of the National Cultural Festival of Aïssaoua commenced on the evening of Saturday at the Moubarak El Mili Cultural Center in Mila. This year’s festival brings together specialized troupes and associations from 12 different provinces across Algeria.
The opening ceremony, themed "The Art of Aïssaoua: Between the Necessity of Transcription and the Imperative of Localization," was presided over by local authorities and saw a large audience in attendance, including spiritual leaders from various zaouïas. The event featured religious songs performed by the Aïssaouia Rachidia association from Constantine and the Benoutat Kassentina troupe, providing a vibrant atmosphere for the opening night.
Festival commissioner Boukhmis Boubliaa addressed the audience, highlighting that the 14 selected troupes and associations for this year will showcase the unique characteristics of Aïssaoua art from various regions of the country. He emphasized that the essence of this rich heritage is evident not only in the chants but also in the musical instruments used, reflecting the diverse cultural expressions found within Aïssaoua traditions. Notably, this edition introduced two awards: for "Best Performance" and "Best Text," aimed at recognizing excellence in artistic presentation.
Mila’s governor, Mustapha Koreich, affirmed the annual festival’s commitment to celebrating Algeria’s ancient artistic heritage, which continues to resonate with the tastes and expectations of interested audiences. The first evening witnessed remarkable interaction between the public and artists, showcasing the audience’s enthusiasm for this form of art, an integral part of Mila’s and many other provinces’ local heritage, as noted by attendee Salim Mechri.
The festival is scheduled to run until March 11, featuring artistic evenings in Mila and various municipalities throughout the province. It will include conferences addressing the topic of "Codification and Localization of Aïssaoua Heritage" as well as exhibitions dedicated to showcasing Aïssaoua traditions.
This gathering serves not only as a cultural celebration but also as a platform for dialogue and education regarding the preservation and evolution of Aïssaoua heritage in the modern context. Participants and attendees alike will engage in discussions about the importance of maintaining cultural roots while adapting to contemporary artistic expressions, thus ensuring the longevity of this important Algerian heritage.
In conclusion, the 14th National Cultural Festival of Aïssaoua in Mila represents both a tribute to the richness of Algeria’s cultural traditions and an opportunity for the community to come together in appreciation of their shared heritage. The festival’s blend of performances, discussions, and showcases is a reminder of the collective responsibility to preserve and promote the unique art forms that define Algeria’s cultural landscape.
