Egyptian Music Scene on BBC Radio

BBC Radio 5 hosted yesterday night a 30 minutes special dedicated to Egyptian contemporary music scene. The programme features an interview with Cairo-based journalist Chitra Kalyani (who interviewed me as well few years ago for the Daily News) and her intriguing selection of tunes.
It is an interesting and refreshing piece that will surely contribute to spread Egyptian music popularity and, for  CLEG readers based in Cairo, an opportunity to get inspirations for an exciting evening out as all these artists perform regularly in town.

You can listen to the programme on streaming for free clicking here (skip to minute 35 for the part dedicated to Egyptian music). No special computer programs or devices required (well, ... you need some sort of speakers), just click on listen now. Hurry up though, the program is available online only for the next five days.

WEEKLY AGENDA MUSIC October 29 - November 4, 2011

Sorry! We experienced some Halloween hiccups. All back to normal. Have a very happy and musical week! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Saturday, October 29, 2011

- Cairo Symphony Orchestra presents soloist Yasser el Serafi (violin) at the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- "MOZART DON GIOVANNI" at the Small Hall at Cairo Opera House, 6:55 PM (Part of the METropolitan Opera LIVE HD Series)
- "Alby Aleky Ya Masr" (My Heart to You, Egypt) concert at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- Cairokee (Alternative Arabic rock) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Hip Hop Festival at River Hall, Sawy Center, 3:00 PM mistake!
- Ahmed Harfoush (jazz Bells in Zamalek, 10:00 PM
- DJ Feedo (Ladies Hip Hop & RnB) at Stiletto, 9:00 PM
- The Horrible Hospital of Dr. C at the C-Bar, 9:00 PM Gouna, anyone?
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM

Sunday, October 30, 2011

- Opera Children Choir at the Open Air Theater of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- En Chordais Music Ensemble (Greece) in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Nogoum El Tarab Ensemble for Music & Singing with Moustafa Ahmed at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- The Chicken Came First (Alternative) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Nagham Masry (Egyptian Music) in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Halloween party with Ahmed Harfoush (jazz) at Pub 55, 8:30 PM
- Jakub UrbanTrio VS Eftekasat (Jazz) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Bashir (Nubian Fusion) at After Eight, 9:00 PM
- Samaa’ Band led by Intesar Abdel-Fattah at the Ghouri Palace, 8:00 PM
- El-Nil Troupe for folk instruments (Folk music and songs) at Beit Al-Suheimi, 7:30 PM

Monday, October 31 , 2011

- Recital with Pavel Sporcl (violin) & Petr Jiříkovský (piano) in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Nagham Masry (Egyptian Music) in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Nightmare on 26th July St. with DJ Samba (video) (Halloween party) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

- El Masreyeen Band (Egyptian traditional) the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Fuego (Latino Gipsy music) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Nass Makan at Makan, 9:00 PM

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

- Chamber Music Concert with Mostafa Saeed in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Oboe Recital, Wessam Ahmed (oboe) at Malak Gabr Arts Theater, AUC New Campus, 1:00 PM
- AUC Folklore group, Ewart Hall, AUC Downtown, 8:00 PM
- DJ Ramy/DJ Sleem (Boogie) the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 8:30
- Mazaher Ensemble at the Makan, 9:00

Thursday, November 3, 2011

- Cairo Symphony Orchestra presents Yasser el Serafi (solo violin) in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Song Recital with Iman Mostafa in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Heritage Ensemble for Arab Music at the Arab Music Institute, 8:00 PM
- Song Concert - Johnny at the Open Air Theater, 8:00 PM
- Saki Puppet Theater presents "Om Koulthoum" onstage, Wisdom Hall, El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Jailbirds (Rock 'n Roll) & Glass Onion (Beatles) the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Rango (Sudanese music) at El Tanboura Hall, 8:30 PM
- Salalem (Blues/Funk/Rock) at After Eight, 9:00 PM
- Yacoub Abu Ghosh (jazz, funk, Jordan) at the Geneina Theater, Al Azhar Park, 8:00 PM

Friday, November 4, 2011

- Voice of the Streets Hip-Hop Event, Markaz Shabab Gezira (Gezira Youth Club), 5:00 PM
- Cairo Conservatoire Concert at the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- El Sakia Choir for Adults led by Hussam Samir, performing Sheikh Imam songs in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- DJ Ouzo (Progressive House) the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM

Cinema Updates

Saturday, October 29 - Sunday, October 31, 2011

Arab Shorts 2011 Film Festival, Goethe Institut, 5 Bustan St, Downtown. Refer tolink for full schedule.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

- "DIE FREMDE" (When We Leave) at the Jesuit Center, 6:30 PM
Gerrman / Turkish with Arabic subtitles
Directed by Feo Aladag
Featuring Sibel Kekilli, Nizam Schiller and Derya Alabora

Umay is a young woman of Turkish descent, fighting for an independent and self-determined life in Germany against the resistance of her family. Her struggle initiates a dynamic, which results in a life-threatening situation.

Screened at the Jesuit Center's "Gameat El Nahdet El Alamea wel Thaqafiya"
15 Mahrani street, behind the Jesuit School, Faggala
close to Shohadaa metro stop

Sunday, October 30, 2011

"HASSAN WE NAIMA" (Hassan and Naima) at the Netherlands-Flemish Institute in Cairo, 6:00 PM
1959
Directed by Henry Barakat
Featuring: Soad Hosny, Moharam Foad
Arabic with English subtitles.
Duration: 100 minutes

The story of Hassan and Naima is an old Egyptian folk story talking about the impossible love between two lovers. Hassan is a poor singer in a folk troupe, performing on weddings. Naima is the daughter of a rich village elder, betrothed to Atwa who only wants to marry her because of her father’s riches. Hassan comes to ask for Naima’s hand, but Atwa vows to kill him.

Address: 1, Mahmoud Azmi Str (www.tinyurl.com/NVICmap), Zamalek, Egypt, 11211

Monday, October 31, 2011

"MACISTE E LA REGINA DI SAMAR" (Hercules Against the Moon Men) at the Cinema al Fourn, Darb 17 18, 8:00 PM

When evil aliens from the Moon invade Earth seeking human sacrifice, it's up to Hercules to save the day. However, Hercules is unaware that the Moon Men are in cahoots with the sultry Queen of Samar, who, in a diabolical twist, has arranged to work with the Moon Men in return for being granted ultimate power! Watch as the mighty Greek legend engages evil aliens, topples terrifying stone monsters, confronts mysterious pulsing orbs, and wards off the dangerous advances of a voluptuous femme fatale.

LISZT RECITAL with MOHAMED SHAMS

The brilliant young Egyptian pianist Mohamed Shams will be performing on Sunday November 13, 2011 at 8:00 PM in the Golden Hall of the Mohamed Ali Palace in Manial. The program will be entirely dedicated to Franz Liszt. For a biography of Mohamed Shams (who recently won the Bryden Thomson Prize) and a complete program of the evening, click here.

This concert is an event not to be missed for classical music fans (and not ... good music is good music), not only for the musical quality to be expected from the performance itself, but also because it will mark the return to activity, after January's revolution, of the International Music Center, an organization that has brought to Cairo in the past many fantastic musicians and provided for memorable concerts. Welcome back, and may the tradition continue.

 

EXHIBITION "La Suisse plurielle - Switzerland and migration"

„La Suisse plurielle – Switzerland and migration“, is an exhibition of texts and photos about migrants living in Switzerland, by Swiss photographers Ursula Markus, Edouard Rieben and Pierre Antoine Grisoni. It is organized by the Embassy of Switzerland in Egypt and displayed at the Legacy Gallery, AUC Tahrir Square, until November 19, 2011.

In connection with this exhibition, the Embassy of Switzerland is organizing on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 from 7:00 PM to 9.30 PM at the Oriental Hall of AUC in Tahrir Square, the event “From Switzerland to Egypt, Integration through Chocolate?, four Stories of Migration”. The purpose of this event is to give the audience the possibility to understand better what it means to migrate to Egypt from Switzerland and vice versa. Four witnesses will relate their stories of integration. To be sure, the audience is invited as well to share his/her experience. The event is open to the public.

For more information, please contact the Swiss Embassy in Cairo.

Music updates

I am updating with some great events this week. Please include these in your calendar!

MUSIC

Wednesday October 26 - Friday October 29, 2011

Sesame Street: Monsters Making Music! at the MUST Opera in Cairo, 6:30 PM

Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all their Sesame Street friends are taking to the stage to share their love of music in Sesame Street Live "Elmo Makes Music."
at the Must Opera Cairo, 6th of October City, Al-Motamayez District, Next to Dar El Foad Hospital ,26th of July Mehwar, Egypt. tel: 16111, 16878.

http://bit.ly/TicketsSesameStreet

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

- Ahmed Harfoush (jazz vocals) & Akram el-Sharkawy at the Jazz Bar in Kempinski hotel
- A memorial service for Mina Daniel and the martyrs, with poets, speakers, and the choir project at the Jesuit Center, 7:00 PM

Thursday, October 27, 2011

- Dina El Wedidi and The Band at the Geneina theater, 8:00 PM
- Nubanour (Nubian) at the El Tanbura Hall, 9:00 PM

Friday October 28, 2011

- El Dor El Awal (Oriental music) at the Geneina theater, 8:00 PM

Movies updates

Movies
There is another interesting selection of Latin American movies being shown at the Cervantes

Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Párpados azules (Blue Eyelids) at the Cervantes, 6:3o PM
It takes more than an idyllic to create perfect love. Marina wins a paradise vacation for two, but she has no one to bring along. Would a stranger do?
Feature, Mexico, 2007, 98 min, by Ernesto Contreras. In Spanish (subtitles unspecified)

Thursday, October 27, 2011

La punta del Diablo (Devil's Point) at the Cervantes, 6:30 PM
A surgeon from Buenos Aires, wearied by personal problems and the endless cycle of work, leaves for a week's skiing vacation in the south. Instead, on impulse, he follows a young hitchhiker to a small fishing village, Devil's Point, in the north, on the coast of Uruguay. He makes fleeting acquaintance with some of the villagers, and learns that the only thing to do in winter is to wait for summer.
Feature, Argentina/Uruguay/Venezuela, 2006, 90 min, by Marcelo Paván. In Spanish (subtitles unspecified).

Arab Shorts 2011 at Goethe

Having been sent a kind reminder to post more events, and in a more timely fashion, here is another installment of interesting upcoming events this week!

Starting Thursday, October 27 to Sunday, October 31, 2011 the Goethe will be showcasing short films and video art at their venue in Bustan St. Downtown.

Click on the picture below to zoom in on the schedule:



And be for more information:

Weekly Agenda Music, Sunday October 23 to Friday October 28, 2011

Apologies for delay but here it is.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

- Celebration of the 23rd Anniversary of the Cairo Opera House in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Chamber Music Concert – Mahmoud Osman in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Konouz Ensemble for Arab Music – Mahmoud Darwish at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- White Lotus at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Samaa’ Band led by Intesar Abdel-Fattah at the Ghouri Palace, 8:00 PM
- El-Nil Troupe for folk instruments (Folk music and songs) at Beit Al-Suheimi, 7:30 PM

Monday, October 24, 2011

- Chiri band (Jazz) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Soopar Lox (House) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

- Opera "The Impressario" at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- Flamenco Shaabi at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- DJ Dina El Ghareeb at the After Eight Club, 9:00 PM

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

- Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Opera "The Impressario" at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- Ali El Haggar (Egyptian Music) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 9:00 PM
- DJ Ramy (Boogie) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 8:30
- Mazaher Ensemble at the Makan, 9:00

Thursday, October 27, 2011

- Sehr Al Sharq Ensemble - Belal El Sheikh at the Open Air Theater, Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Flamenco Band and Music in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- The Riff Band (Jazz) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Rango (Sudanese music) at El Tanboura Hall, 8:30 PM

Friday, October 28, 2011

- Gala Concert - Cairo Opera Orchestra in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Camera Band in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:30 PM
- DJ Junior at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM

Cinema Updates

Music updates coming later today!

Saturday, October 22, 2011 (two events)

EL ESPINAZO DEL DIABLO (DEVIL'S BACKBONE) at the Jesuit Center, 6:30 PM
Directed by Guillermo del Toro
Featuring Marisa Paredes, Eduardo Noriega and Federico Luppi

It is 1939, the end of three years of bloody civil war in Spain, and General Franco's right-wing Nationalists are poised to defeat the left-wing Republican forces...

Film Screening "Wholetrain" GRAFFITI FILM at Townhouse Gallery Library, 7:00 PM
Directed by Florian Gaag
(89min)

This is the story of a crew of four “writers”, who observe the hierarchies, the values, the rules and the codes of the graffiti scene. Night after night they make off for the subway stations of the city, intent on leaving opulent images behind.

English subtitles
Arabic Graffiti – book and project presentation by the author, graffiti writer and cultural organizer Don STONE Karl

Street Art, Design & the Revolution – lecture by, designer, street artist Mohamed Gaber

Graffiti history and culture– Meet & Greet and Q&A with world famous graffiti crew MaClaim

Sunday, October 23, 2011

IL GATTOPARDO (THE LEOPARD) at the Italian Culture Institute, 6:00 PM (rerun at 8:00 PM)
Italy / 1936. Italian with English subtitles.
Directed by Luchino Visconti
Featuring Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon and Claudia Cardinale

The Prince of Salina, a noble aristocrat of impeccable integrity, tries to preserve his family and class amid the tumultuous social upheavals of 1860's Sicily.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

THE BRIGHT STAR at the Open Air Theater, Cairo Opera House, 7:30 PM
UK

Directed by Jane Campion
Featuring Abbie Cornish, Ben Whishaw and Paul Schneider

The drama based on the three-year romance between 19th century poet John Keats and Fanny Brawne, which was cut short by Keats' untimely death at age 25.

Inshad Dini and Aghani Diniyya in Twentieth Century Egypt by Michael Frishkopf

I stumbled across this extremely interesting research (click here) on the practice of Inshad Dini (Islamic hymnody) in Egypt. This is a long but extremely interesting reading for those interested in this musical genre and a useful introduction in case you plan to attend one of the many performances of Inshad that regularly take place in Cairo.

Must See: Shaabi Music at Geneina

The shaabi music event "OUT OF THE PICTURE" at Al Azhar's Geneina Theater on Thursday, October 20, 2011 must be singled out this week. Kudos to Geneina theater for finally shedding some (spot)light on this very special local form that is sadly under-presented. (A concert on Saturday will also highlight an out-of-the-box group)

I, for one, will be making my way to Al-Azhar to check this event. The event starts 8:30 PM. Come early to get good seats, and get ready to rock it, shaabi style.

More details:

"In the context of searching for a new meaning for music suitable for political and social situation after the revolution of 25 January, and in the context of the spread of new types of music created by a new generation of Egyptian artists associated with shaabi neighborhoods, communities and weddings, El Genaina Theatre presents DJ Amr Haha accompanied by the popular stars Figo, Alaa' Fifty, and El Sadat Rap on Thursday 20th of October 2011 as part of the El Genaina Theater special program Out of the Picture. This concert will followed by a second concert on Saturday 22nd of October featuring the young star Ola El Mansoura accompanied by her band, and DJ Islam Chipsy with the drummers Khaled Mando and Islam To'to'."

WEEKLY AGENDA MUSIC October 17 to October 21, 2011

Monday, October 17, 2011

- Bikya (Electronic and Trip-Hop) the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

- Pyramids and the Revolution ballet in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Extempore Ensemble (Colombia) in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- The Memory of Franzlist by Sakia String Orchestra in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Crash Boom Bang (Singing Competition) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

- Musical Trio with Richard Galiano (France) in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Cairo Conservatoire Concert in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Commemoration of Youssef el Menyawy at the Arab Music Institute, 8:00 PM
- El Sakia 4th Rock Festival at the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- DJ Misty / DJ Hafez at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 8:30
- Mazaher Ensemble at the Makan, 9:00
- Michelle Rounds (Jazz, RnB) at Kempinski Jazz Bar , Kempinski Hotel, Corniche, 9:30 PM

Thursday, October 20, 2011

- Abdel Halim Nowera Ensemble for Arab Music in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Pantomime Concert with Ahmed Nabil in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Mezzotono-Piccola Orchestra (Italy) at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- El Sakia 4th Rock Festival in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Screwdriver (Rock’n’Roll) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM
- El Tanbura (Folk Music from Port Said) at El Tanboura Hall, 8:30 PM
- Out of the Picture at the Geneina Theater, Azhar Park, 8:00 PM

Friday, October 21, 2011

- Alexandria Opera Ensemble for Music & Arab Singing in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- The Mediterranean Sea Cultural Festival (Spain) at the Open Air Theater at Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- El Sakia 4th Rock Festi1val in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Michelle Rounds (Jazz, RnB) at Kempinski Jazz Bar , Kempinski Hotel, Corniche, 9:30 PM
- DJ Amir Sharara & The Digital Monkeys at Cairo Jazz Club, 9:00 PM

Flamenco: Crossing of Cultures, Monday October 17 to Thursday October 27, 2011

Events around Flamenco will take place in Cairo from Monday, October 17, 2011 to Thursday, October 27, 2011 (and in Alexandria on Friday, October 28, 2011 and Sunday, October 30, 2011). The series of events titled "FLAMENCO – CROSSING OF CULTURES" is organised by Elnamla Cultural Resources with the support of the Spanish embassy and other organisations.

Conference 1: Origins of Flamenc0
Followed by a short concert/demonstration by maestro Antona and cantaor Fariña
Monday 17 th October
8:30pm
Beit Al-Oud – Behind Al-Azhar Mosque

Conference 2:Development of Flamenco Styles
Followed by a short concert/demonstration by maestro Antona and cantaor Fariña
Tuesday 18 th October
8:30pm
Beit Al-Oud – Behind Al-Azhar Mosque

Conference 3: Flamenco Today
Followed by a short concert/demonstration by maestro Antona and cantaor Fariña
Sunday 23rd October
12:00 noon
Faculty of Music Education – Helwan University
Ismail Mohamed st - Zamalek

Concert "Flamenco Shaabi"
Tuesday 25th of October
10:00pm
Cairo Jazz Club
Mohandeseen - Cairo

Concert "Tablao Flamenco Shaabi"
Thursday 27th of October
8:00pm
Sawy Culture Wheel
Zamalek - Cairo

ALEXANDRIA
Concert "Tablao Flamenco Shaabi"
Friday 28th of October
8:00pm
Jesuit Cultural Center - Alexandria

Conference: History of Flamenco
Sunday 30 th of October
7:00pm
Alexandria Library

11th Week of Italian Language in the World

Although we have already missed mentioning the first day here, it would be noteworthy to mention the week of Italian Language organised by the Italian Institute of Culture in Egypt with book openings, lectures, movies, theater and other events.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Baab Gallery (in front of Opera Theatre) at 7:00 PM
Photographic Exhibition: "National identity: 52 flags for the Italian Unity" in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture.
For the 150th Anniversary of Italian Unity, Brera Accademy of Fine Arts has organized the exhibition in Cairo, Brussels and Liège. The exhibition in Cairo is composed by lithographs printed on hand-made Fabriano paper replicating the canvas flags.

IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 9:00 PM
A Review of Italian Movies for the 150th Anniversary of Italian Unity

WE BELIEVED
Directed by Mario Martone.
Starring Luigi Lo Cascio, Valerio Binasco, Francesca Inaudi, Guido Caprino, Renato Carpentieri.
Historical, Runtime 165 min - Italy/France, 2010, Italian with Italian subtitles
Following the fierce Bourbon repression of the political movements of 1828 which touched all their families, three young men from the south of Italy decide to join Giuseppe Mazzini’s “Giovine Italia”. Through four separate episodes, each reflecting the hidden pages of the birth of Italian unification, the lives of Domenico, Angelo and Salvatore will be tragically marked by their conspiratorial and revolutionary missions, balanced as they are between moral rigor and murderous impulses, the spirit of sacrifice and fear. In the background, the unknown history of the birth of the country, of implacable conflicts among the founding fathers, of the fracture between the North and the South and of the contorted roots from which will grow the Italy we now live in.

Monday, October 17, 2011

University of Ain Shams – Language Faculty – Department of Italian Studies - Main Hall, 10:00 AM
Opening ceremony of the XI Week of Italian Language and Culture in the World
Address of H.E. the Ambassador of Italy Claudio Pacifico; the Director of the Italian Cultural Institute Patrizia Raveggi presents the Program of the "XI Week". The ceremony will be attended by Egyptian officials (Vice – Chancellors of the most important Egyptian universities, and Head of Italian studies departments) and important personalities in the Egyptian and Italian cultural fields.
Address of professor Rabie Salama
Head of the Department of Italian Studies – Language Faculty - Ain Shams University

Lectio magistralis by professor Paolo Luigi Branca
“Getting to know Egypt in Italy, throughout books”


IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 6:00 PM
“Prague Cemetery” by Umberto Eco
Presentation of the Arabic translation by Professor Amer Al Alfi.

IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 8:00 PM
A Journey to Destiny
Contemporary theatrical pièce in four acts, written and directed by Mohamed Kamal. Translation: Hussein Abu El-Ela (first and second act), Jasmine Mohamed, Marise Samir, Lara Amira Mohamed (second act), Salma El-Kayaal (third act), Gehad Ezzat (fourth act). Editing of the script: Hussein Mahmoud, Alessandra Massreya, Rita Andreanelli, Ivano Chignola. The performers are the students of the Department of Italian Studies – Faculty of Languages Al Alson – Ain Shams University.


Tuesday, October 18, 2011

IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 6:30 PM
Presentation of the Arabic translation of “Il sorriso dell’ignoto marinaio” by Vincenzo Consolo.
The publication into Arabic language has been made possible thanks to the contribution of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to spread Italian literature in the world. In the panel literary critic professor Hussein Mahmoud, the translator dr. Naglaa Wali and the publisher dr. M. Hosny Soliman.

IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 7:00 PM
Presentation of "Ten Years in Egypt, Libya and Sudan", a recently published two volumes book by H.E. Ambassador Claudio Pacifico

IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 8:00 PM
A Review of Italian Movies for the 150th Anniversary of Italian Unity

MA CHE STORIA...
Directed by Gianfranco Pannone. Starring Roberto Citran, Roberto Di Francesco, Leo Gullotta.
Documentary, running time 78 min. – Italy 2010, Italian with English subtitles.
A tragicomic journey through history, via a long and tiring path towards Italian unity: Mazzini, Garibaldi, Cavour, Verdi… names that today seem far from us, but which are not so far after all. The "Risorgimento" was a revolution, welcomed as really and truly epic in the nineteenth century, but reduced in the following century by Italian “dark forces”.
Power, intellectuals and the people have made for a difficult relationship, often violent and not lacking cynicism, and which has obstructed the creation of a shared national feeling. The telling of this half epic is recounted via newsreels and documentaries, the Luce archive, from 1910 to the 1980s, which, not without rhetoric, span the history of the nation.


Wednesday, October 19, 2011

10:00 AM to 1:00 PM / 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM p.m. – 5 p.m.
IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute
Conference "The influence of Italian Risorgimento in the birth of the idea of Nation in Egypt”. On the occasion of the celebrations of the 150th Anniversary of Italian Unity, the conference highlights the parallel history of Italian freedom fight and the transformation process started by Muhammad Ali and his heirs. Perfectly integrated into Egyptian society and administration many Italian political expatriates lived in Egypt between 1820-1860. The conference will focus on the Italian presence in Egypt and its influence in building the concept of Nation.

Welcome speech by the Director of the Italian Cultural Institute and address by H.E. the Ambassador of Italy Claudio Pacifico. Followed by:

Massimo Campanini – Professor of Contemporary History of Arab Countries – University of Naples L’Orientale;
Giuseppe Cecere – Professor - Institut Français d’Archéologie Orientale (IFAO) – Cairo;
Anthony Santilli – Researcher at the University of Naples l'Orientale;
Paolo Branca – Scholar – Associated to the University of Milan Cattolica;
Annamaria Lazzarino Del Grosso – Historian – Professor of History of Political Doctrines – University of Genoa;
Franco Cardini – Historian – Professor of Medieval History – University of Florence;
Ezio Godoli – Professor of History of Architecture and Modern History – University of Florence;
Assem Al-Dessouki - Historian of Contemporary Arab World – Professor of Modern History – University of Helwan - Cairo;
Anna Baldinetti – Historian – Associated to the University of Perugia;
Emad El Baghdadi – Professor - University of Ain Shams, Cairo;
Emad Abou Ghazi - Minister of Culture.

Gallery of the Italian Cultural Institute, Cairo, 6:00 PM
Presentation of the Proceedings of the Conference and opening of the Exhibition "Birth of a nation. Portraits of Italian Risorgimento” proposed by the Ministry of Youth in collaboration with the Institute for the History of Italian Risorgimento – Central Museum of Risorgimento – Rome.


IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 8:00 PM
A Review of Italian Movies for the 150th Anniversary of Italian Unity
OLD-FASHIONED WORLD
Directed by Mario Soldati. Starring Massimo Serato, Alida Valli, Ada Dondini, Mariù Pascoli, Anna Carena.
Drama, running time 107 min. - Italy 1941, Italian with English subtitles
1850, Lombardy occupied by Austrians. Franco Maironi, patriot and fervent Catholic, marries Luisa Rigey against his grandmother’s will who threats to disinherit him. They settle in Oria, on the Lugano's lake, at an uncle's place. Ombretta is born, but the baby drowns in the lake few years after her birth. It's a huge trial for the two parents. While Luisa is stuck in her pain, Franco, supported by his faith, becomes a volunteer soldier. Oppressed by remorse, the grandmother mends her ways.


Thursday, October 20, 2011

IIC-IL CAIRO, Theatre of the Italian Cultural Institute, 5:00 PM
Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Awards Ceremony. The IIC Director presents a gift of books to the winners of the 2010 contest "Parole in viaggio" (students of the "Leonardo da Vinci" school).
IIC Awards Ceremony. The IIC Director presents a gift of books to the winners of the contests: “Italian my own way”, “Happy Birthday Italy” and the photographic exhibition "Traces of Italy in Egypt".

Following
Screening of the film "Future Italy", produced in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Technology – Genoa, and the contribution of Alberto Angela. The film shows three sectors, research, industry and health-care, focusing on the centers of excellence, the small and mediums enterprises that contribute to the "made in Italy" guarantee mark.

Inauguration of the Literary Café (Caffé & Bookshop) dedicated to Carla Maria Burri, Cultural Attaché of the Italian Cultural Institute from 1964 to 1981 and Director from 1991 to 1998.

Light refreshments in collaboration with the Hope Village Society, a NGO supporting less privileged women and children throughout professional teaching.

Gomhouria Theatre – Cairo, 8:00 PM
Concert of the band Mezzotono: "a cappella" performance (no musical instruments, only voices). The classics of Italian tradition presented in an original musical version.

Friday, October 21, 2011

8 p.m.
Sayid Darwish Theatre - Alexandria
Concert of the band Mezzotono: "a cappella" performance (no musical instruments, only voices). The classics of Italian tradition presented in an original musical version.


Special Event in Alexandria

Bibliotheca Alexandrina
In the occasion of the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the foundation of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Director of the BA Ismail Serageldin will inaugurate the permanent exhibition of the archeological finds by prof. Paolo Gallo – Professor of Egyptology at the Turin University and Director of CMAIA – on Nelson Island.
The archeological finds kept in special and high tech display cases are the results of a long term field work led by Professor Gallo thanks to the contribution of Italian Foreign Ministry – Directorate General for the "Country System".

Cinema Updates

Apologies for the delay. This weekend has flown by without having registered itself until Cairowanderer kindly reminded me :) Here are updates nevertheless. The week is actually packed with many exciting events, so I hope my slip will be forgiven because there's still lots to offer! Look out for the Chilean film series this week at Cervantes!

Monday, October 17, 2011

INLAND EMPIRE at the Cinema al Fourn, Darb 17 18, 8:00 PM
USA / 2006
MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY

Directed by David Lynch

David Lynch’s archetypes—recognizable from previous movies—once again construct the film's inherent logic, but with a new twist. Sets vibrate between the contemporary and a 1950s alternate universe crammed with dim lamps, long hallways, mysterious doors, sparsely furnished rooms and a vortex/apartment/sitcom set where rabbit-masked humans dwell, and a Polish town where women are abused and killed. Filmed on video, the film's look has the sinister, frightening feel of a Mark Savage film or a bootlegged snuff movie. Constant close-ups, both in and out of focus, make Inland Empire feel as if a stalker covertly filmed it.

SABADO (SATURDAY) as part of Chilean Cinema at the Cervantes, Dokki, 6:30 PM
Chile / 2003. 65 minutes.
Directed by Matías Bize
Subtitles in English

A few minutes before her wedding, Bianca discovers that her boyfriend has a lover that is also pregnant. In her wedding dress, Bianca sets out seeking revenge. The camera follows the protagonist, in one long uncut scene from start to end.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

DAMASCUS WITH LOVE at the Open Air Theater, Cairo Opera House, 7:30 PM
Syria
Arabic subtitles.

Synopsis: Rima, a Syrian-Jewish girl is about to emigrate from Damascus. When her father reveals an old secret to her at the airport, she cancels her trip and returns to explore the past.
Directed by: Mohamad Abdulaziz

EN LA CAMA (IN BED) as part of Chilean Cinema at the Cervantes, Dokki, 6:30 PM
Chile / 2005. 85 minutes
Directed by Matías Bize
Subtitles in English

Daniela and Bruno meet at a party and then decide to go to a motel. Strangers before then, the intimacy of sharing a bed for a night will change their lives forever.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

CRIMSON GOLD at the Cinema al Fourn, Darb 17 18, 8:00 PM
Directed by Jafar Panahi
English subtitles.

Two master filmmakers, Abba Kiarostami (A Taste of Cherry) and Jafar Panahi (The Circle), team up as writer and director, respectively, on Crimson Gold, a subtle tragedy about class conflict in Iran. Hussein is a lumbering veteran swollen by cortisone (for war-induced pain) and reduced to delivering pizzas at night—he is frequently lost in a mental semi-fog during the days. Witness to the rewards and vanities of the wealthy, insulted when a jewelry shop owner won't allow him in his store, and under pressure to get married, Hussein awkwardly aspires for higher ground but is more familiar with a life of marginal importance. When an eccentric socialite gives him a taste of luxury, something desperate is unleashed. Director Jafar Panahi brings his feel for and vision of the expansive ordinary, for the near-invisible forces churning within characters in seemingly throwaway circumstances.


LO BUENO DE LLORAR (Good to Mourn) as part of Chilean Cinema at the Cervantes, Dokki, 6:30 PM
Chile / 2007. 80 minutes.
Directed by Matías Bize
Subtitles in English

That's just what a relationship is. It's not an easy thing to part with but involves a long decisions at night, doubts, fears, lies, silences, reflection and discussion. Through different situations
and conversations, a couple reveal secrets of their intimate relationship. Vera and Alejandro allow us to explore the great lies that can exist in a couple and also the great truths of being human.


Thursday, October 20, 2011

LA VIDA DE LOS PECES (The Life of Fish) as part of Chilean Cinema at the Cervantes, Dokki, 6:30 PM
Chile / 2010. 84 minutes.
Directed by Matías Bize
Subtitles in English

Andrew lives in Germany since 10 years ago. He returns to Chile to settle his past before moving permanently to Berlin. During his stay, he attends a birthday party of a friend, meeting once again Beatrice, his great love. The encounter could Andrew's life forever.

Trio Galliano, Lagrène, Lockwood at the Cairo Opera House

The French Institute in Egypt in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and the Cairo Opera House presents a concert by the Trio Richard Galliano, Biréli Lagrène, Didier Lockwood on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 at 8:00 PM in the Main Hall of the Cairo Opera House. Free entry.

This is a great event for music lovers and jazz aficionados in particular. Richard Galliano is one of the best jazz musicians around! Not to be missed.

 

THE ETERNAL EYE - A Contemporary Coptic Icon Exhibition

In the wake of the recent tragic sectarian conflicts in Egypt, St. John’s Church in Maadi (corner of Port Said Rd,. and Rd. 17) will host THE ETERNAL EYE, an exhibition that reflects the desire to see the establishment of a new Egyptian society that inherently respects and honors religious diversity. The objective of the exhibition is to encourage a better understanding of Egypt’s indigenous Christian community, the historic Coptic Orthodox Church, which constitutes up to 10 % of the population and traces its heritage back to the first century. This significant indigenous Christian presence in Egypt plays a critical role in enabling all faiths to coexist in harmony. This event embraces the new spirit of ecumenical solidarity that was so beautifully illustrated during the Egyptian revolution..

THE ETERNAL EYE will exhibit over fifty commissioned Coptic icons by the renowned Coptic iconographer Magdy William. The exhibition will be officially opened on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00 PM by Bishop Daniel, the Bishop of Maadi and Assistant to His Holiness Shenouda III, the Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church, with the artist Magdy William present. The Exhibition will run from Oct 20 to Oct. 26. 20% of all sales will go to the Spirit of Giving charities assisting the poor in Egypt.

In the course of the exhibition there will be some special presentations:
Friday, October 21 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM (just after the 10:00 AM church service), a special presentation by renowned icon artist, Magdy William, “The making of Coptic Icons” (kids program provided).
Monday, October 24 at 7:00 PM, “The Restoration of the historic 5th century Red Monastery in Upper Egypt—A Visual Presentation” by art restorer Dr. Michael Jones of the American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE).

For more details please see the exhibition's website: www.oncaravan.org/eternal-eye
 

UMF (Underground Music Federation)

Friday, October 14, 2011 starting at 4:00 PM 3:00 PM (updated Oct. 11), the Gezira Youth Club grounds in Zamalek will host some of the biggest names in Egypt's rock music for "Nice to Rock You" an event that will mark the official launch of UMF-LIVE.COM. The concert will feature SALALEM and CAIROKEE among others (click here for more details) and is an event I would never miss if I were in Cairo (sic!).

In the words of the authors ... "UMF-LIVE.COM is Egypt's first official and professional underground music website which offers community and platform that hosts the best underground musicians and artists to support and connect them with their fans around the world in a professional and interactive way". Well, if it manages to keep that mission it will be an overdue and welcomed development for the Egyptian music scene, a scene that deserves (CLEG has been saying that for years) a watchful eye as it has plenty of good musicians, creativity, and potential.

I had a look at the website and found that it is definitely well done and, though at its initial stages, provides already a good overview of many artists, in addition to the possibility of watching videos and hear songs. Do have a look, it is worth!

Good luck to UMF and to all artists participating in the project.

WEEKLY AGENDA MUSIC October 8-14, 2011

Saturday, October 8, 2011
- Foo2 2el Soto7 (Jazz, Latin, Funk) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM

Sunday, October 9, 2011

- Heritage Ensemble for Arab Music at the Arab Music Instituate of Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Egyptian Takht in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Roof Top Sessions (Jazz trio) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Samaa’ Band led by Intesar Abdel-Fattah at the Ghouri Palace, 8:00 PM
- El-Nil Troupe for folk instruments (Folk music and songs) at Beit Al-Suheimi, 7:30 PM

Monday, October 10, 2011

- 23rd Anniversary of Opera House event at the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- DJ Ouzo (Progressive House) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

- "Othello" performed by Egyptian Modern Dance Company at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- Ehab Abdo (Egyptian music) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Egoz (Rock’n’Roll) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

- "Othello" performed by Egyptian Modern Dance Company at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- Bluenotes (Blues) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Mohamed El Helw in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- DJ Ramy (Boogie) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 8:30
- Mazaher Ensemble at the Makan, 9:00

Thursday, October 13, 2011

- The Pyramids and the Revolution ballet in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Elena Dzamashvili (Piano Recital) in the Small Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- El Tanbura (Folk Music from Port Said) at the Open Air Theater of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- National Arab Music Ensemble at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- The White Lotus Project with George Kazazian (World Music) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Fewnkat Donia Masoud (Egyptian songs) at the Geneina Theater at Al Azhar Park, 8:00 PM
- Fathy Salama Sharkiat at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Darawish Aboul El Gheit (Zikr) at El Tanboura Hall, 8:30 PM

Friday, October 14, 2011

-UMF-LIVE.COM Launch Concert “Nice To Rock You” at the Gezira Youth Center "Markaz Shabab El Gezira", 4:00 PM
- The Pyramids and the Revolution ballet in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- "Othello" performed by Egyptian Modern Dance Company at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- El Asala Fe Rabie El Omr Ensemble at the Open Air Theatre, Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Eftekasat (Jazz) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Metal Blast in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- The White Lotus Project with George Kazazian (World Music) at the Geneina Theater at Al Azhar Park, 8:00 PM
- DJ K-Z (Progressive House, Trance) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM

Cinema Updates

Saturday, October 8, 2011

OF GODS AND MEN at the Jesuit Center, 6:30 PM
France / 2010 / (122 min). Arabic and French with Arabic subtitles.

Directed by Xavier Beauvois
Featuring Lambert Wilson, Michael Lonsdale

Under threat by fundamentalist terrorists, a group of Trappist monks stationed with an impoverished Algerian community must decide whether to leave or stay.

Sunday, October 9, 2011 (two films)

DE HELAASHEID DER DINGEN (THE MISFORTUNATES) at the Netherlands-Flemish Institute (NVIC), 6:00 PM
Belgium / 2009 / (108 minutes). Dutch with English subtitles.

Adapted from a novel by Dimitri Verhulst, The Misfortunates is set in a fictive town somewhere in Flanders. Its protagonist, the 13-year-old Gunther, is the youngest member of the Strobbes, a family composed of one devoted mother (“whose heart is bigger than her pension”) and her four sons (one of who is Gunther’s single father). The four men devote their lives to one particular pleasure – drinking – and spend most of their time in the local pub. Gunther seems destined for a similar, useless existence but is clever enough to understand that a different, more constructive life is possible.

‘The Misfortunates’ was selected for the Quinzaine des Réalisateurs at the Cannes Festival in 2009 and won a lot of prizes in several international film festivals (Winner in the category ‘Best Film’ at Hamptons International Film Festival in New York, Festival du Film Grolandais and the European Film festival of Cinésonne in Paris)

ALLONSANFÀN at the Italian Institute of Culture, 6:00 PM (rerun at 8:00 PM)
Italy / 1973 / (111 min). Italian with English subtitles.

Directed by Paolo and Vittorio Taviani.
Featuring Marcello Mastroianni, Lea Massari, Mimsy Farmer, Laura Betti, Claudio Cassinelli.

In early 19th-century Fulvio Imbriani, an Italian middle-aged aristocrat-turned-revolutionary, loses his commitment to a secret revolutionary society. The title of the film is the name of a young member of the society playing fatal role in Fulvio's life The title refers to the phonetic spelling of "Alons enfants," the first two words of the French "Marseillaise."

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

LA BUENA NUEVA at the Open Air Theater, at Cairo Opera House, 7:30 PM
Spain / 2008 .

Directed by Helena Taberna
Featuring Unax Ugalde, Bárbara Goenaga, Gorka Aguinagalde.

A young priest arrives in his first assignment to a small parish serving a working-class village in the north of Spain in 1936.

Updates on Events: PechaKucha, Movie and Open Mic

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

The first PechaKucha Night will take place Goethe Institute's Tahrir Lounge, Downtown, 6:30 PM.
Presenttions will cover political, urban and social issues...

Speakers so far are:
- Injy El Abd (Collage)
- Mohamad Ezz Aldine (Photography/ CARE Egypt)
- Ahmed Hazem (Social Networking)
- Mona Shahien (Tahrir Lounge)
- Mohamad El Moshir (Graffiti/Caricature)
- Marwa Morgan (Photography)
- Ahmed Abdel Fatah (Photography/ Tahrir Square)
- Tasniem Seliem (Computers + Kids + Books)
- Ahmad Nady (creative illustration)


Wednesday, October 5, 2011

“Exit Through the Gift Shop” (2010) at the Townhouse Library, 7:00 PM

Directed by Banksy

A film about an amateur French film maker who obsessively tries to document the making of street art by world renowned graffiti artists such as Shepard Fairey, Invader, and Banksy, claiming his end goal being the creation of a documentary on street art, when in fact he has no intention in doing so. Not only does he follow them during late hours of the night while climbing buildings to leave their outspoken marks, but he also befriends them and learns their craft. Inspired by the risky life and impact of street life, Terry Guetta, starts his own line of work under the stage name “Mr Brainwash” as Banksy himself edits and creates “Exit Through the Gift Shop”.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Up On The Roof – Open Stage Night at Darb 1718, 8:00 PM

Up on the Roof is an Arts Residency Cairo (ARC) event in association with Darb 1718. The bi monthly Open Stage Night is a creative platform for both established and emerging artists using either Arabic or English language.

Performances include live poetry, spoken word, stand-up comedy, narratives, music, script reading and dance. Each act will be a maximum of 7 minutes and at times a longer guest spot for an invited artist. This is a space to try out new material and take risks as well as present shaped work.

Donation of 10 LE on entrance

Ensemble Sabil Egypt Tour - October 2011

Georges Kazazian's Ensemble Sabil will present the "White Lotus" project in a series of concerts in Cairo and Alexandria during the whole month of October. The project, started in 2010 and sponsored by Pro Helvetia, is the result of an intense cooperation between oud master Kazazian and a group of Swiss musicians. Putting together their experiences and backgrounds, they have produced wonderful melodies that have already thrilled audiences in Egypt and Switzerland alike.

This is an event not to be missed! You might even want to get to one of the earlier shows, ... so that you have a chance to see it again.
The tour schedule is as follows:

October 8,   8:00 PM, Mashrabia Gallery (in connection with a book launch. See here)
October 12, 8:00 PM, AUC (Campus Hall not selected yet)
October 13, 8:00 PM, Wisdom Hall at El Sawi Cultural Centre
October 14, 8:00 PM. Geneina Theatre at El Azhar Park
October 16, 8:00 PM, Rawabet Theatre (next to Townhouse Gallery)
October 18, 8:00 PM, Great Hall of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria
October 23, 10:00 PM, Cairo Jazz Club

WEEKLY AGENDA MUSIC October 1-7, 2011

Saturday, Oct 1, 2011

- El Fann Midan at Abdin Square, 4:00 PM onwards
- Livestrong Day in Egypt, Darb 17 18, 5:00 PM
- Cairo Symphony Orchestra conducted by Ahmed El Saedi performs works by Mozart and Beethoven in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Hip Hop Festival at the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 3:00 PM
- Ashara Gharby (Arabic Blues and Reggae) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM
- Remix 2011 Concert (more information) at the Geneina Theater, Azhar Park, 8:00 PM

Sunday, Oct 2, 2011

- Omar Khairat (Piano) in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Opening Ceremony of the Arab-Indian Culture Week at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- National Arab Music Ensemble at the Arab Music Institute, 8:00 PM
- The Chicken Came First and Feed Me! (Soft Rock) at the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Amro Salah Trio feat. Noha Fekry (Jazz) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Samaa’ Band led by Intesar Abdel-Fattah at the Ghouri Palace, 8:00 PM
- El-Nil Troupe for folk instruments (Folk music and songs) at Beit Al-Suheimi, 7:30 PM

Monday, Oct 3, 2011

- Opening Ceremony of the Arab-Indian Culture Week at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- Ahl Cairo (Contemporary Egyptian Songs) at the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- DJ Awadi Brothers (Funk) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 7:30 PM

Tuesday, Oct 4, 2011

- Opening Ceremony of the Arab-Indian Culture Week at the Gomhouria Theatre, 8:00 PM
- New Musical Talents at the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 6:00 PM
- Michelle Rounds (Rock’n’Blues, Jazz, Funk) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM

Wednesday, Oct 5, 2011

- Tyatro Band (Oriental Music) in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- DJ Samba (Boogie) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- Al-Ghouri Tannoura Dance Group at the Ghouri Caravansaray, 8:30
- Mazaher Ensemble at the Makan, 9:00

Thursday, Oct 6, 2011

- National Arab Music Ensemble in the Main Hall of Cairo Opera House, 8:00 PM
- Sakia Puppet Theater presents Om Koulthoum Back on Stage in the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Black Theama (Alternative Egyptian music) in the River Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- Salalem Album Launch Party (Blues/Funk/Rock) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM
- El Tanbura (Folk Music from Port Said) at El Tanboura Hall, 8:30 PM

Friday, Oct 7, 2011

- Salalem (Blues/Funk/Rock) at the Wisdom Hall of El Sawi Cultural Centre in Zamalek, 8:00 PM
- DJ Carlos (Underground) at the Cairo Jazz Club, 10:00 PM

Cinema Updates

Saturday, October 1, 2011

SOPHIE'S CHOICE at the Jesuit Center, 6:30 PM
English with Arabic subtitles. Entrance Free.

USA / 1982

Directed by Alan J. Pakula
Featuring Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Peter MacNicol.

Sophie is the survivor of Nazi concentration camps, who has found a reason to live in Nathan, a sparkling if unsteady American Jew obsessed with the Holocaust.

Screened at the Jesuit Center's "Gameat El Nahdet El Alamea wel Thaqafiya"
15 Mahrani street, behind the Jesuit School, Faggala
close to Shohadaa metro stop

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

SOLITARY MAN at the Open Air Theater at Cairo Opera House, 7:30 PM
English with Arabic subtitles.

(USA)
Directed by Brian Koppelman, David Levien
Featuring Michael Douglas, Susan Sarandon, Jesse Eisenberg.

A car magnate watches his personal and professional life hit the skids because of his business and romantic indiscretions.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

“Exit Through the Gift Shop” (2010) at the Townhouse Library, 7:00 PM

Directed by Banksy

A film about an amateur French film maker who obsessively tries to document the making of street art by world renowned graffiti artists such as Shepard Fairey, Invader, and Banksy, claiming his end goal being the creation of a documentary on street art, when in fact he has no intention in doing so. Not only does he follow them during late hours of the night while climbing buildings to leave their outspoken marks, but he also befriends them and learns their craft. Inspired by the risky life and impact of street life, Terry Guetta, starts his own line of work under the stage name “Mr Brainwash” as Banksy himself edits and creates “Exit Through the Gift Shop”.