Highlights of the Evening: The Spectacle "The Victory of Horus"
The spectacle "The Victory of Horus," written by playwright Mohamed Samir El-Khatib and directed by Walid Aouni, was a highlight of the evening. In a ballet of moving bodies, light, and symbols, the work drew from pharaonic mythology to tell the story of the triumph of light over darkness. A grand finale, like a bridge between the ancestral roots of Egypt and contemporary experiments.
The Press — Between Tribute to Robert Wilson, Pharaonic Frescoes, and Celebration of Creators from Around the World
The 32nd edition of the International Experimental Theater Festival opened at the Cairo Opera House in a festive and vibrant atmosphere, confirming the city as a hub for bold scenes. Under the gilded ceilings of the Cairo Opera House, the curtain rose on Monday evening for the 32nd edition of the International Experimental Theater Festival. A highly anticipated event, where scenic experiences from around the world converge, and theatrical audacity is offered to the Egyptian public.
The Opening Evening
The opening evening began with a vibrant tribute to the immense American director Robert Wilson, a figure in experimental theater. Inspired by his visual and sound universe, choreographer Walid Aouni designed a moving fresco, between light and abstraction, which transported the audience to the very essence of scenic creation. A documentary film then reminded the audience of the collective spirit that animates the festival: images of preparation and behind-the-scenes footage retraced the excitement of a team entirely mobilized to give this edition its international dimension.
Tributes and Recognitions
The ceremony also honored prominent figures in theater. Actor Sabry Fawaz, artist Hanane Youssef, Professor Hassan Khalil, and playwright Bahi Ismaïl received distinctions, joined by creators from Tunisia, Cameroon, France, England, Lebanon, Kuwait, Iraq, and Qatar... So many diverse trajectories, united in a single salute to theater.
A Journey into Egyptian Mythology
Highlight of the evening: the spectacle "The Victory of Horus," written by playwright Mohamed Samir El-Khatib and directed by Walid Aouni. In a ballet of moving bodies, light, and symbols, the work drew from pharaonic mythology to tell the story of the triumph of light over darkness. A grand finale, like a bridge between the ancestral roots of Egypt and contemporary experiments.
A Hub for Theatrical Experiences
Created to offer a platform for innovative writing and hybrid forms, the Cairo International Experimental Theater Festival imposes itself as one of the rare spaces where the Arab world's scenes dialogue directly with international currents. From September 1st to 8th, the Egyptian capital becomes a living laboratory of scenic creation, hosting troupes, directors, and spectators eager for discoveries. More than just a festival, this 32nd edition asserts itself as a celebration of theater in all its metamorphoses, a place where celebration, experimentation, and encounter blend into a single energy.
