une pléiade d’artistes se produisent à l’Opéra d’Alger
On Wednesday in Algiers, a vibrant artistic soirée showcased Algerian variety artists, celebrating the beauty of Algeria and honoring its heroic struggle against French occupation. This event was part of the « National Song Days, » scheduled for May 10, 14, and 17 at the Boualem-Bessaih Opera House, coinciding with the National Memory Day, which marked the 80th anniversary of the May 8, 1945 massacres.
The event was attended by culture and arts minister, Mr. Zouhir Ballalou, and featured a lineup of talented performers. Under the direction of maestro Lotfi Saidi, the Opera of Algiers’ orchestra and choir delivered authentic Algerian musical compositions, captivating the audience with a rich cultural experience.
Yacine Ourabah opened the evening, performing Amazigh songs that celebrated national pride, including « Athamourthiw. » Souhila El Oulmi then lit up the stage with renditions of Warda el Djazairia’s beloved tracks « Aid el Karama » and « Biladi ouhibouki. » Another highlight was singer Houria Hadjadj, who passionately sang « Angham El Djazair » by the martyred artist Ali Maâchi, along with « Thaourat el ahrar » by Saliha Essaghira.
Nadia Guerfi continued the patriotic theme with heartfelt performances of traditional songs that narrated the struggles of the Aurès region, notably « Sebaa ayam » (Seven Days). Hamidou, a well-known figure in Algerian music, enlivened the latter part of the evening with a diverse program, ultimately closing the event alongside fellow artists with the song « El Hamdoulilah ma bqach istiâmar fi bladna » by El Hadj M’hammed el Anka.
This artistic gathering not only served as an entertainment event but also as a powerful reminder of Algeria’s rich cultural heritage and its historical resilience against oppression. The performances resonated deeply with the audience, creating a moving tribute to the nation’s past and present. The successful organization of the « National Song Days » reflects the commitment to preserving and celebrating Algeria’s musical traditions, ensuring that the stories of struggle and triumph continue to be shared through the arts.
