Latest news with #EgyptianAcademyofArts
Daily News Egypt
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily News Egypt
From Cairo to world: Egypt's Academy of Arts redefines Middle Eastern arts education with global vision
In the heart of Egypt's bustling capital, along the timeless banks of the Nile where millennia-old civilisations meet the pulse of contemporary life, the Egyptian Academy of Arts stands tall as a pioneering educational and cultural institution in the Arab world. For over six decades, the Academy has established itself as a driving force in Middle Eastern arts education — a living testament to Egypt's ability to intertwine heritage with modernity, safeguarding its cultural roots while embracing global innovation. Today, amid a rapidly evolving technological and digital arts landscape, the Academy positions itself at the forefront, investing in artificial intelligence, language education, and international partnerships to chart a new course for arts education in the region. A Unique Institution in the Arab World Since the enactment of Law No. 78 of 1969, which formally established the Academy's structure and its nine specialised higher institutes, it has remained unrivalled in the Middle East. These institutes include cinema, theatre, music, ballet, folk arts, art criticism, children's arts, applied arts, and, most recently, the Institute of Arts and Multimedia Translation. This unparalleled institutional diversity has enabled the Academy to remain a consistent source of artistic and cultural talent, preserving Arab artistic identity while producing contemporary creators equipped to navigate the challenges of a globalised market. Visionary Leadership This storied institution owes its stature to generations of figures who left indelible marks on its trajectory. Among them is the pioneering theatre scholar Madkour Thabet, who laid the foundations for academic theatre education in Egypt, insisting that art must carry a profound social and civilisational message. Thabet's approach — fusing intellectual depth with practical training — transformed the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts into a crucible for actors and directors who continue to enrich Egypt's and the wider Arab world's cultural scenes. Though his role was foundational in the mid-20th century, his influence endures in the Academy's curricula and its ever-evolving theatrical productions. Equally instrumental was Ashraf Zaki, the renowned Egyptian actor and head of the Actors' Syndicate, who led the Academy during a pivotal period. Under his tenure, the Academy underwent a sweeping infrastructural renaissance — from renovating its institute theatres to inaugurating a modern Roman Theatre and establishing the Open Street Library. Zaki revitalised derelict spaces, converting them into dynamic classrooms and performance venues. His presidency concluded in July 2021 upon reaching the official retirement age, yet his legacy lives on through numerous milestones, including the widely celebrated student-led campaign 'Thank You, Ashraf Zaki.' Today, he remains an active cultural leader, honoured at events such as the Jerash International Festival 2024 and community gatherings as recently as June 2025. Currently, the Academy is helmed by Ghada Gabarah, an accomplished film editor and cinema professor, who assumed leadership in July 2021. Gabarah has distinguished herself by combining artistic expertise with academic acumen, championing a bold vision that integrates artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology into arts education. Under her stewardship, the Academy has undergone a quiet but substantial digital transformation, including the launch of a comprehensive online platform and the incorporation of smart educational tools. Initiatives such as founding the Institute of Arts and Multimedia Translation and organising the Theatrical Spaces Festival have earned her discreet but consistent acclaim from students and Egypt's arts community — an understated recognition of her ability to enact internationally resonant reforms without media fanfare. A Comprehensive Digital Vision During Gabarah's tenure, the Academy has fully embraced AI systems across its academic programmes — from automated scenario analysis and digital visual effects design to AI-driven musical composition. It regularly organises student competitions to produce short films using virtual reality technologies. In a landmark move, the Academy also merged its efforts in specialised arts translation and multilingual education by establishing the Higher Institute for Literary and Multimedia Arts Translation — a visionary project led by Enas Abdel Khalek. This ambitious initiative blends advanced translation studies with art history and digital production skills. The institute offers intensive programmes in English, French, Italian, Spanish, and German, alongside practical workshops translating film scripts, stage plays, operas, and musical scores. Strongly supported by Gabarah — who recognises the unspoken power of language as a civilisational bridge — this merger has enhanced students' abilities to render Arab artistic productions in multiple world languages while faithfully interpreting international works for Arab audiences. As ever, Gabarah allows the initiatives to speak eloquently for their architect. Global Partnerships In recent years, the Academy has embarked on unprecedented international collaborations, cementing its status as a global cultural hub. These partnerships include: Hosting Global Ensembles : The Academy welcomed the Russian National Ballet, which collaborated with local ballet students on joint performances, exposing them to world-class techniques. It also hosted theatrical troupes from Italy and Spain, enriching Egypt's performing arts scene through diverse cultural exchanges. : The Academy welcomed the Russian National Ballet, which collaborated with local ballet students on joint performances, exposing them to world-class techniques. It also hosted theatrical troupes from Italy and Spain, enriching Egypt's performing arts scene through diverse cultural exchanges. Collaborating with the British University in Egypt : A formal agreement was signed to develop joint cinema and theatre programmes, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, shared workshops, and collaborative productions. This initiative gives students access to British academic methodologies, including contemporary performance analysis and documentary filmmaking techniques. : A formal agreement was signed to develop joint cinema and theatre programmes, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, shared workshops, and collaborative productions. This initiative gives students access to British academic methodologies, including contemporary performance analysis and documentary filmmaking techniques. Partnerships with France : The Academy collaborated with institutions such as the French Institute in Egypt to develop cinema and visual arts programmes, organise workshops in film direction and lighting design, and participate in events like Cairo Photo Week. Academic exchanges with the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris have further enriched Egypt's art education landscape. : The Academy collaborated with institutions such as the French Institute in Egypt to develop cinema and visual arts programmes, organise workshops in film direction and lighting design, and participate in events like Cairo Photo Week. Academic exchanges with the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris have further enriched Egypt's art education landscape. China Collaborations : In cooperation with China, the Academy signed agreements with leading Chinese arts academies to develop programmes in folk arts, music, and digital production. The exchange programme has included opera performances in Cairo and Egyptian ballet shows in Beijing, reflecting a dynamic East–West artistic dialogue. : In cooperation with China, the Academy signed agreements with leading Chinese arts academies to develop programmes in folk arts, music, and digital production. The exchange programme has included opera performances in Cairo and Egyptian ballet shows in Beijing, reflecting a dynamic East–West artistic dialogue. Erasmus+ Participation : Through the European Union's Erasmus+ programmes, the Academy enables Egyptian students to study or train at European institutions for periods ranging from two months to a full academic year. These bilateral agreements have significantly expanded students' academic and artistic horizons. : Through the European Union's Erasmus+ programmes, the Academy enables Egyptian students to study or train at European institutions for periods ranging from two months to a full academic year. These bilateral agreements have significantly expanded students' academic and artistic horizons. International Workshops and Festivals: The Academy regularly hosts international directors, scenographers, and lighting designers for training workshops and has represented Egypt at prestigious international festivals such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, earning critical acclaim. These initiatives empower students to engage with a variety of artistic cultures while mastering modern technologies. They also bolster research and academic collaboration, enabling the Academy to offer locally rooted yet globally aware arts education — affirming Egypt's place as a regional and international cultural powerhouse. Global Impact Despite Limited Resources Despite having comparatively modest resources when measured against leading international arts institutions, the Academy has forged a global reputation for community-centred, culturally conscious education. Under the discerning leadership of Ghada Gabarah — who has expertly balanced a heritage of artistic integrity with contemporary digital and humanitarian priorities — the Academy has pioneered an educational model that merges creative instruction with social outreach and cultural development. The Academy offers free arts workshops for children and youth in working-class Cairo neighbourhoods, including Imbaba, Haram, and Faisal. Its professional-level community initiatives address complex social issues through performances and projects that rival those offered by major European and American institutions. In a powerful affirmation of cultural inclusivity, the Academy launched its 'Art Without Limits' initiative, integrating people with disabilities into Egypt's arts scene. The programme offers sensory-based workshops in tactile drawing, rhythmic music for the hearing-impaired, and inclusive theatre performances — positioning the Academy as one of the region's few institutions genuinely including differently-abled individuals in artistic production. Through environmental initiatives such as Green Arts, recycling workshops, and sustainable community activities, the Academy further demonstrates its commitment to ecological awareness and community welfare. Amid all this, the Academy — still rooted in the vision of its founding figures, who believed in art as a vocation before all else — continues to renew itself under Gabarah's thoughtful leadership, preserving a living, breathing heritage while writing new chapters of digital transformation, international outreach, and art-driven social impact. A Legacy Renewed From Madkour Thabet, the father of Egyptian academic theatre, to Ghada Gabarah's poised and quietly revolutionary integration of AI and global partnerships, Egypt's Academy of Arts remains a singular institution in the Arab world's cultural landscape. At a time when many institutions falter under economic strain, the Academy has proven that art can still be a force for education, social cohesion, and cross-cultural dialogue. From Cairo to the world, it continues to assert a rejuvenated presence in international festivals, exhibitions, and academic collaborations — affirming that Arab institutions can indeed rival their global counterparts when endowed with vision, leadership, and a capacity for reinvention. Today, the Egyptian Academy of Arts is more than a training ground for artists. It is a globally attuned Arab cultural institution, shaping a modern artistic identity and offering new generations the hope that art will forever remain among humanity's most vital tools for liberation, creativity, and renewal.
Daily News Egypt
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily News Egypt
When Egypt strikes chord in Rome: Rania Yehia and symphony of cultural diplomacy
In a city where stone whispers to time and beauty hangs in the air like an eternal note, the dome of the Egyptian Academy of Arts in Rome rises as a distinctly Arab pulse — the heartbeat of a Cairo spirit that refuses to fall silent. Beneath the Mediterranean sun, within walls steeped in history, sits Dr Rania Yehia: acclaimed flautist, seasoned art critic, and Director of the Academy. Here, she composes a new chapter in Egypt's soft power symphony — one set to a different score. In a candid conversation, where conviction met clarity and passion echoed through each answer, we sat down with her. This is that encounter. ■ From Cairo to Rome, how did you receive this appointment? It felt like being called to perform a new national symphony — not on an opera stage, but on the world stage of cultural diplomacy. I don't speak here as an individual; I carry Egypt's voice — a voice that still resonates across the world's great capitals. It's a responsibility akin to performing a solo against the backdrop of history's orchestra. ■ You lead the only Arab arts academy in Europe. How do you see this role? The Egyptian Academy in Rome is more than a cultural or academic institution. It is a beacon — a prism through which Egypt opens windows to the world. My mission is to ensure that others see our true, civilised identity: deeply rooted, proudly Egyptian, yet fully human and strikingly contemporary. ■ Tell us about your recent initiative, 'Egypt the Embrace.' I wanted the Academy to be a cultural home for all Arabs, not just Egyptians. 'Egypt the Embrace' was born as a platform for pan-Arab cultural exchange — inviting a different Arab country each month to present its art, literature, and heritage. Together, we write messages of peace through the arts. I must also acknowledge Egypt's Ambassador to Italy, Bassam Rady, whose leadership during a historic gathering of Arab ambassadors at the Academy inspired the initiative's official title: The Egyptian Academy… and the Arab Civilisation. ■ What's the difference between leading Egypt's Institute of Art Criticism and heading the Academy in Europe? In Cairo, I taught criticism and practised art. In Rome, I live art as a diplomatic mission. The essence is the same, but the scale is different. Every concert here carries a message. Every exhibition becomes a dialogue. The Academy has become a sanctuary for cultural identity, a platform for dignified representation, and a place to challenge stereotypes through opera, cinema, and fine art. ■ Have you faced challenges in becoming Egypt's cultural voice in a nation so fluent in beauty? Rome reveres art — but by its own classical canon. I had to present Egypt in its full grandeur, beyond the tourist clichés. We are not just the pyramids. We are Naguib Mahfouz, Umm Kulthum, Yehia Haqqi, Mahmoud Mokhtar, and Refaat El-Gammal. Respect came when I introduced Egypt not as a relic, but as a vibrant, living culture. Our present — under wise leadership — affirms Egypt's commitment to art as a medium of peace and intercultural dialogue. One unforgettable moment was the night Sheikh Mahmoud El-Tohamy performed his mystical hymns. The Academy became a spiritual haven — a space where the East spoke its most eloquent language. ■ Describe a typical day at the Academy. My mornings begin with a flurry of messages — from Egyptian artists hoping for a European platform, and from Italians fascinated by Egypt's artistic soul. I review the monthly programme, coordinate with embassies, prepare for events, and by evening, I return to being a flautist and a critic. I attend concerts, exhibitions, and film screenings — recharging in one of the world's most beautiful cities. ■ What is your vision for the Academy? I hope it evolves from a cultural centre into a hub of real influence. I dream of long-term Arab-European artistic collaborations, translation initiatives, fellowships, and partnerships with Italy's top cultural bodies. Egypt deserves to reclaim its soft power status — and we are working tirelessly to achieve that. ■ Now that your life is split between Cairo and Rome, where do you truly feel at home? I belong to an idea — to art that transcends geography. My home is in a flute's melody in a Roman theatre, and in the eyes of a student in Cairo searching for her voice. I am Egypt's daughter and a devoted envoy of its artistic soul. My presence here is also a testament to Egypt's belief in the potential of its women — not only in preserving culture, but in shaping the future. ■ What has Rome taught you, as both artist and human being? Rome taught me patience — not because of its traffic, but because true beauty unfolds slowly. Every street corner holds a story; every stone speaks. I've learned to seek depth in details. Great art is that which stays with you long after the curtain has fallen. This chapter — like my earlier studies in Paris and Cairo — is a transformative one. It has enriched me with new insights and perspective, which I hope to dedicate fully to the service of my country. ■ Do you believe Egypt can reclaim its artistic leadership in the region? Absolutely. Egypt has the history and the pioneering spirit. But what we need to export is not only our artistic output, but a renewed vision. We must redefine art as a pillar of national identity — not just entertainment. That is our mission at the Academy: to rebuild the bridge between Egypt and the world with confidence, intellect, and professional excellence. Our cultural legacy is undisputed. The challenge now is to reframe it in a way that resonates globally. I believe we are on the cusp of a true renaissance — one Egypt is more than ready for.
See - Sada Elbalad
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Russia's Kostroma Forges Stronger Cultural Ties with Egypt
Pasant Elzaitony In a significant step toward enhancing cultural exchange, the renowned Russian Kostroma Folklore Ensemble is making its debut visit to Egypt as part of a broader initiative under the BRICS Cultural Cooperation Program. The visit is supported by the Russian Presidential Fund and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, in collaboration with Egypt's Ministry of Culture. During their stay, the ensemble is engaging in a series of artistic and educational exchanges aimed at fostering mutual cultural understanding. Arseniy Matyushenko, Acting Director of the Russian Cultural Centers in Egypt, noted the importance of cultural outreach, stating, 'The Russian side is keen to strengthen communication with Egyptian cultural institutions.' He highlighted several collaborative activities, including a workshop with students from the Higher Institute of Ballet at the Egyptian Academy of Arts, as well as a joint rehearsal with Egypt's iconic Reda Folklore Ensemble that featured both Egyptian and Russian folk dance traditions. A press conference held at the Russian Embassy in Cairo brought together key cultural figures from both nations. Among the attendees were Russian Ambassador Georgy Borisenko; Yelena Tsarenko, Producer and Director of the Kostroma Ensemble; Khaled Galal, Head of Egypt's Cultural Production Sector; Hesham Gamal, Vice President of the Egyptian Academy of Arts; Enas Abdel Aziz, Director of the Reda Ensemble; and Maria Vishkina, Director of the College of Dance. Ambassador Borisenko remarked on the growing momentum of cultural exchange between Russia and Egypt, describing it as a 'rich and productive period of artistic cooperation.' Galal emphasized the significance of Kostroma's visit, calling it a reflection of the depth of bilateral relations and the shared commitment to cultural collaboration. Elena Tsarenko explained that the ensemble's tour is part of a wider initiative sponsored by the Russian Presidential Fund, aimed at deepening cultural ties with partner countries. The program launched this year in Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and China, and is set to expand to Brazil, India, Ethiopia, and South Africa in 2026. It encompasses artistic workshops, joint performances, and cultural exchanges that encourage dialogue and understanding between nations. The ensemble's visit will culminate in a joint performance with the Reda Troupe, scheduled as part of the upcoming celebrations for Russian National Day. Tsarenko described the initiative as 'an important opportunity to bridge cultures through the universal language of the arts.' read more 2 Most Inspirational Green Projects in Egypt AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT to Strive over Viewership Tonight Egypt Marks 70th Anniv. of 2011 Revolution, National Police Day In Depth: WWE NXT Halloween Havoc In Depth: AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT Tuesday Viewership Strive Videos & Features WATCH: Egyptians Break Ramadan Fasts in Matariya Videos & Features GrEEk Campus Hosts Jobzella Fifth Career Fair Videos & Features 3 Iconic Ramadan Songs of All Times Videos & Features Top 4 Destinations to Visit in Upper Egypt News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
Arab News
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Effat Film Festival celebrates emerging Saudi filmmakers
JEDDAH: The 12th edition of a student film festival celebrating the creativity of up-and-coming Saudi filmmakers is taking place at Effat University in Jeddah. The Effat International Student Film Festival, which ends on April 15, has attracted more than 2,200 film submissions from 90 countries, as well as entries from 10 Saudi universities. The competition shortlisted a total of 89 films from 28 countries, with cash prizes totaling more than SR50,000 ($13,333) available to the winners. This year's festival, held under the theme 'From Dream to Film,' recognizes notable figures in the film industry, including Saudi director Abdullah Al-Muheisen, Saudi actor Hassan Assiri, Saudi director Khalid Al-Harbi, British director Joanna Quinn, and Prof. Ghada Gabara, president of the Egyptian Academy of Arts. Other honorees hail from Japan, the US, and China. Dr. Mohamed Ghazala, head of the School of Cinematic Arts and festival director, told of his passion for the event by emphasizing the importance of community and creative storytelling. He said: 'Running a film festival is just like making a film. We're fueled by passion and the incredible support of our volunteers, contributors, and arts funding. 'It's not about the money; it's about uplifting filmmakers and nurturing a vibrant community. While organizing a festival can be challenging, it's an exciting journey filled with hard work and joy. 'You don't need a massive budget, endless time, or extensive business expertise to start a small film festival, the audience will find you. What matters most is a genuine love for film, the courage to take risks, and the drive to share meaningful stories.' Jala Jalal, the leader of the student club at the School of Cinematic Arts, reflected on the significance of the festival for students. Jalal said: 'The showreel is more than just a collection of films, it's a celebration of our creativity and growth as filmmakers. It's a reflection of our voices and visions. 'What I love most about this festival is the opportunity it gives us to connect with the film industry, both locally and internationally. Working on the showreel and seeing the final outcome fills us with pride, not just in ourselves, but also in being part of a university that provides us the platform to bring our visions to life.' The festival's jury members come from a diverse international background. Friedrich Kluetsch, president of the documentary film jury, told Arab News: 'The Saudi submissions were marked by a palpable joy in discovering the filmmakers' surroundings and their close connection to the protagonists. 'It was evident in the films' self-reflection, with three of them exploring filmmaking itself, portraying established filmmakers and an abandoned cinema. 'We noticed slight differences between the Saudi and international entries, particularly in the use of commentary or a narrator's voice, which was more common in the international films and helped express the filmmakers' perspectives.' Dr. Haifa Jamal Al-Lail, president of Effat University, highlighted the festival's broader mission to provide a unique platform for Saudi and international film students to showcase their work. She said: 'This festival plays a pivotal role in creating connections between young filmmakers worldwide. It aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, fostering the country's cultural movement and global presence in the arts.' Dr. Asmaa Ibrahim, dean of the College of Architecture and Design at Effat University, underscored the growing international recognition of the festival, saying: 'The increasing number of applications each year is testament to the festival's growing status. 'It's now the largest festival of its kind in the Arab world in terms of both the quality of films and the specialized focus on student filmmakers.' Alongside film screenings, the festival features a range of seminars and workshops conducted by industry leaders, including representatives from Netflix, Sony, MBC Academy, and Toon Boom Animation. Notable academic figures, such as professors from the University of Southern California, and the Communication University of China, were also scheduled to contribute lectures and workshops on topics like cinematography, directing, sound production, and film distribution. An open discussion hosted by media personality Suha Al-Waal with actor and producer Hassan Assiri at Hayy Jameel also took place at the event. Assiri, who was to be honored for his significant contributions to Saudi drama and production, shared insights into the evolving Saudi film industry, highlighting the growing opportunities for local talent and the increasing global recognition of Saudi productions.
CairoScene
20-02-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
‘Our Uncle Salah Jahin' Caricature Exhibition Now on Display in Rome
The Egyptian Academy of Arts in Rome is hosting an exhibition titled 'Love With Our Philosopher of the Simple…Our Uncle Salah Jahin', showcasing 32 never-before-seen original Jahin drawings. Feb 20, 2025 'Our Uncle Salah Jahin', an exhibition dedicated to the eponymous caricaturist, has been put on display in Rome, Italy, until February 20th. Previously held at the Hanager Arts Centre in Cairo, the Egyptian Academy of Arts in Rome is hosting the exhibition under the title 'Love with Our Philosopher of the Simple…Our Uncle Salah Jahin' in its main hall. Both these exhibitions are part of an initiative launched by the Egyptian Ministry of Culture to honour Salah Jahin, recognising his contributions to the country as a poet and an artist. Throughout his lifetime, he produced many works addressing poignant social issues with a satirical approach, making him an iconic figure in Egyptian and Arab culture. The exhibition in Cairo featured a collection of his rare drawings, including 32 original drawings displayed for the first time, as well as around 60 caricature portraits of Jahin by 52 artists from Egypt and beyond. The Egyptian Academy of Arts in Rome also features a rare collection of Jahin's caricature drawings, and showcases his famous quatrains translated into Arabic, Italian, English and French.
