The Cairo Initiative, organized by journalist Mahmoud Al-Tamimi in collaboration with the Academy of Arts, represented by the Higher Institute of Folk Arts, is hosting a cultural evening titled “Spirits in the City” to commemorate the researcher and artist Zakaria Al-Hagawi, as part of the Egyptian Opera House’s cultural and intellectual activities.

The evening will revisit Al-Hajjawi’s life and his role in documenting Egyptian folk art by showcasing his works and those of his students. A number of artists will participate in the event, including Khudra Muhammad Khidr, Jamalat Sheiha, Muhammad Taha, and Muhammad Abu Darra. The event will also pay tribute to the late artist Fatma Sarhan, one of Al-Hajjawi’s last students.

The event will cover significant milestones in the history of folk art, including the presentation of the first folk operetta in Egypt, a collaboration between El-Hagawy, writer Yahya Haqqi, and novelist Naguib Mahfouz, which featured the debut of dancer Mahmoud Reda, as well as an exploration of his relationships with public figures such as Anwar Sadat and Gamal Abdel Nasser. as well as recounting aspects of his life through the writings of Mahmoud Al-Saadani.

The evening will feature musical and dance performances, alongside discussions on the evolution of Egyptian folk art and its value as part of cultural identity.

Venue:

The Small Theater – Egyptian Opera House

Time:

6:00 p.m.