Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2024, 13:16
Category: Culture
Algiers – The year 2024 has been marked by significant cultural events across Algeria in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Liberation Revolution. Various activities in cinema, theater, literature, and the arts highlighted the significance of this monumental national event and its lasting impact on the Algerian people.
A Comprehensive Cultural Program
The Ministry of Culture and Arts orchestrated a rich and diverse program reflecting the importance of the anniversary, a priority for President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who emphasized elevating this national milestone to its deserved prominence.
Among the most notable events was the 27th edition of the Algiers International Book Fair (November 6–26), held under the theme “We Read to Triumph.” The fair featured a range of activities focusing on history and memory, with participants from Algeria, Africa, the Arab world, and Europe.
Key discussions included themes such as:
- “The Spirit of the November 1, 1954 Revolution: A Legacy for Generations.”
- “Historians and the Revelation of Colonial Crimes.”
- “Our Writings on November.”
- “Foundational Texts of the Algerian Revolution.”
- “The Algerian Revolution in Arab Writings.”
The National Center for the Book also hosted a national symposium at the Algiers National Library (November 19–20) titled “Resistance Literature in Algeria: Culture in the Face of Colonial Discourse,” addressing topics like deconstructing colonial narratives and resisting globalization and Western hegemony.
Cinema: A Tribute to Just Causes
Cinematographic events throughout the year celebrated the Liberation Revolution and its global resonance. The Oran Arab Film Festival (October 4–10) highlighted just causes worldwide and honored cinematic figures who contributed to national memory, such as director Mohammed Lakhdar-Hamina, known for his film Chronicle of the Years of Fire (1975).
Other film festivals, such as the 18th National Amazigh Film Festival in Tizi Ouzou and events like “Cinema Panorama of the Revolution” in Djelfa and “Open-Air Cinema” in Médéa, also commemorated this glorious anniversary.
A symposium titled “Cinema and Algeria’s Liberation Revolution” (October 3) emphasized the importance of cinematic diplomacy in promoting the national cause and countering colonial propaganda. Meanwhile, the International Symposium on Cinema and Memory (December 9–11) in Algiers discussed the role of cinema in fostering liberation consciousness and the evolution of Algerian cinema during and after the Revolution.
Theatrical Performances Reflecting Revolutionary Spirit
The Algerian National Theatre and regional theaters produced eight major plays that illuminated the struggles of the Algerian people against French colonialism. Performances included:
- “The Sands Rise” by the Regional Theatre of Adrar.
- “The Ship Caledonia” by the Regional Theatre of Tizi Ouzou.
- “The Rebels” by the Regional Theatre of Constantine.
- “The Choice” by the Regional Theatre of Saida.
In addition, grand artistic productions like “The Price of Freedom” by the Opera of Algiers and “Tahagart: The Epic of the Sands” by Riadh El Feth explored the themes of resistance and the armed struggle for freedom.
Visual Arts and National Heritage
The art exhibition “Panorama of Algerian Visual Art 1954–2024,” held at Moufdi Zakaria Palace in Algiers, showcased over 200 works. The event traced the evolution of Algerian art over seven decades, reflecting the Revolution’s enduring influence on cultural expression.
Celebrating with Music and Performances
The National Office for Culture and Information launched “Caravans of Memory: Glorious November, Loyalty and Renewal,” a program featuring musical and theatrical tours across the provinces starting in November.
A Year of Reflection and Celebration
These events not only honored the sacrifices of the Algerian people but also reinforced the spirit of resistance and independence that continues to inspire future generations.
For more information on these commemorative activities, visit DZWATCH.DZ.
Author: Nor-Eleslam
