Cairo - The Center Stage music program, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, has chosen three contemporary Egyptian music ensembles for tours in the United States between July and December 2018. The selected artists are Dina El Wedidi, Mohamed Abozekry & Karkadé, and Youssra El Hawary. These tours aim to introduce American audiences to the distinctive sounds of these Egyptian musicians.
U.S. Embassy Cairo Chargé d’Affaires Thomas Goldberger commented on the initiative: “The relationship between the United States and Egypt is deep and broad, and we’re delighted to have this opportunity to expose American audiences to Egyptian music and artists. Our hope is that these tours will lead to discovery of new markets in the U.S. for the entire Egyptian music and arts industry.”
The ensembles were chosen based on their musical quality and uniqueness. Dina El Wedidi is known for her ability to blend modern elements with traditional Egyptian folk music. She recently collaborated with the U.S. Embassy in Cairo for a concert called Hakawateya (Storytellers). Her innovative approach promises to captivate audiences in America.
Mohamed Abozekry, an oud virtuoso, leads his band Karkadé by merging popular and classical Egyptian music traditions with secular poetry into a new instrumental project. Youssra El Hawary's compositions reflect stories from Cairo and highlight the independent Egyptian music scene.
Since its inception in 2012, Center Stage has facilitated cultural exchanges by bringing new voices into dialogue within the United States. By the end of 2018, it will have hosted 29 performing arts groups from nine countries including Algeria, Egypt, Haiti, Indonesia, Morocco, Pakistan, Tanzania, Ukraine, and Vietnam across various venues such as colleges, festivals, music clubs, and cultural centers throughout the U.S.
These artistic exchanges are part of broader efforts by the United States to partner with Egypt's people and government. More information can be found on the U.S. Embassy’s website at eg.usembassy.gov or through social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter at @USEmbassyCairo.