The musical play “Umm Kulthum… Daybeen Fi Sawt Al-Sitt” will debut at the 40th Jerash Festival in Jordan from July 23 to August 2, according to festival organizers. The production, written and produced by Egyptian poet Medhat El Adl, marks the first time the show has performed outside Egypt, aiming to introduce the legacy of the “Planet of the East” to younger generations.
Why is Umm Kulthum returning to the stage in Jerash?
The Jerash Festival’s official social media accounts describe the performance as a “massive musical theatrical show” designed to evoke the golden age of Arabic music. The production focuses on the most prominent milestones of Umm Kulthum’s life and her most famous songs.
Medhat El Adl told Asharq Al-Awsat that he chose a musical play because her life had already been explored through cinema and television. He views her as an artistic icon who defied time, noting that generations continue to unite over her music despite the “difficult, heavy, and long” nature of her songs.
How is the production responding to recent controversies?
The announcement comes amid a wave of personal accusations against the late singer. El Adl characterized these attacks as attempts to “trend” on social media, comparing Umm Kulthum to a pyramid that remains unaffected by such assaults. He stated that she is a symbol of Egypt and the Arab world who deserves respect.
The backlash triggered legal action from the singer’s family against a writer who targeted her. That writer later issued a formal apology via Facebook, claiming his intent was to provide a fair perspective on Umm Kulthum as both a human and a phenomenon.
Art critic Tarek Al-Shennawy told Asharq Al-Awsat that the recent writings were not “criticism” but rather “distortion” using “unethical and rejected weapons.” Al-Shennawy noted that the strong reaction from her fanbase proves her art still resonates more than 80 years after its inception.
What other “Golden Age” icons will get the theatrical treatment?
Medhat El Adl is expanding his biographical theater project beyond Umm Kulthum. He confirmed he is currently preparing a new musical project centered on “The Nightingale,” Abdel Halim Hafez.
El Adl expressed ambitions to create similar theatrical biographies for other legends of the era, including:
- Leila Mourad
- Shadia
- Farid al-Atrash
- Mohammed Fawzi
He specifically highlighted a personal wish to produce a show about the career of Lebanese icon Fairuz, whom he described as a great artistic symbol and Arab icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Umm Kulthum play perform at Jerash?
The show is scheduled during the 40th Jerash Festival, which runs from July 23 to August 2.
Who wrote and produced the show?
Why was there a legal dispute regarding Umm Kulthum recently?
Her family took legal action against a writer for making personal accusations; the writer has since apologized on Facebook.
Which other artists are planned for similar plays?
Abdel Halim Hafez is the next project, with potential future shows for Fairuz, Shadia, and Farid al-Atrash.
Join the Conversation: Do you believe the “Golden Age” of Arabic music is best preserved through traditional recordings or modern theatrical reinterpretations? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on regional arts and culture.
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