Ramadan‑Night Concert at the Festival de la Médina – A Night of Tunisian “Tarab”
Source: La Presse
A handful of music‑loving spectators witnessed the velvet‑voiced performance of an artist whose career has remained largely unchanged since her debut in the early 2000s.
The Festival de la Médina continues to delight audiences with Ramadan‑themed evenings that blend traditional Tunisian sounds—such as malouf and other regional folk songs—with contemporary remixes and jazzy arrangements. The goal is to give the heritage a modern twist and attract a younger crowd.
Date & venue: Saturday, 28 February 2025 – Municipal Theatre (Théâtre municipal)
Guest of honour: Meherzia Touil
Special guest troupe: Nadi El Assil (travelled from Sfax)
Unfortunately, the theatre was almost empty.
Opening Act – Nadi El Assil’s Chorale
The evening, hosted by historian Abdessatar Amamou, opened with the El Assil troupe. Their choir performed a selection of classic pieces:
- “Bachraf”
- “Abyet Hussein”
- “Ayouha Saqi”
- “Barouel Hussein”
- “Ya Khil Salem”
Ghada Jemal, the choir’s star, sang “Ghzali Nafar,” a beloved melody popularised by the legendary Saliha of the Rachidia.
The orchestra and choir, dressed in traditional costumes, were conducted by maestro Youssef Trabelsi. Their flawless execution earned enthusiastic applause from the small audience.
Spotlight on Meherzia Touil
The second half of the concert showcased the talented Meherzia Touil, who delivered five timeless songs from the Rachidia repertoire:
- “Dar El Falek”
- “Kahtem”
- “Fouq El Chajara”
- “Yali Dhalimni”
- “Hazet Al Baha”
These refrains are staples at Tunisian festivals, wedding celebrations, and other cultural events, remaining a favourite among melomaniacs.
Touil’s sweet, middle‑range voice—neither too high nor too low—captivated the audience, her calm and measured stage presence adding a touch of elegance to the night.
Third Segment – More Traditional Gems
Returning to the stage, Nadi El Assil performed several lesser‑known gems:
- “Khetem Ala Man Tekoun”
- “Ya Salama”
- “Wassla fi Tabaâ Naoua”
The evening concluded with the choir’s uplifting finale, featuring:
- “Jessmi Baîd”
- “Mahlaha Tabthilit Aini”
- “Maâmoulek Lilahh”
- “Kari Wa Allem”
A 100 % Tunisian “Tarab” Experience
The concert was a pure celebration of Tunisian tarab, perfectly aligning with the Festival de la Médina’s 42nd anniversary. Despite the low turnout, the performance highlighted the enduring charm of Tunisia’s musical heritage and the talent of artists like Meherzia Touil and the Nadi El Assil troupe.
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