The U.S. Embassy in Cairo, in collaboration with the Center Stage arts exchange program, has announced the U.S. debut of Youssra El Hawary and her band. The tour will run from September 11 to October 12 and include musical residencies, artist exchanges, and public concerts across ten cities such as Washington, D.C., Kittery, Maine, and Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Youssra El Hawary is a notable figure in Egypt's independent music scene. She leads her five-piece band with an accordion that brings together Cairo's underground sound with acoustic elements. Her music combines French chanson, indie rock, and jazz to create a unique artistic expression that reflects everyday life in Cairo and the Mediterranean basin's influences.
Since its inception in 2012, the Center Stage arts exchange program has been supported by the U.S. Department of State to introduce new voices into cultural discussions within the United States. Now in its fourth season, Center Stage hosts international musicians for tours throughout the U.S., engaging communities through performances and various interactive activities like workshops and masterclasses.
Center Stage is part of a public diplomacy initiative by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. It is administered by the New England Foundation for the Arts alongside regional arts organizations with backing from entities such as the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art and Trust for Mutual Understanding. Lisa Booth Management Inc provides general management for this initiative.
Further details about these cultural exchanges can be found on the Embassy’s website or their social media platforms.