Guelma – The 13th edition of Algeria’s National Festival of Contemporary Music kicked off in style at the city’s Roman Theatre, where an enthusiastic audience enjoyed a rich and diverse musical evening. The opening concert, held on Sunday night, was headlined by renowned artist Nadia Kerfi, who blended traditional Algerian folk songs with modern rhythms, setting the tone for a week of artistic celebration that runs until August 13.Nadia’s performance electrified the packed 4,000-seat open-air venue, marking the festival’s long-awaited return to Guelma after a three-year hiatus. In a poignant moment of solidarity with the Palestinian people of Gaza—who continue to face blockade, massacres, and inhumane practices at the hands of the Zionist occupier—Kerfi performed “Shaddou Ba’dkom ya Ahl Filastin” (“Hold Each Other, People of Palestine”), earning emotional applause from the crowd.Her set also featured reimagined versions of heritage songs from various Algerian musical traditions, such as “Sab Errachrach”, “Ya Aini Nouhi”, and “Ya Saleh Ya Saleh”, which the audience sang and danced along to, underscoring Algeria’s commitment to preserving cultural identity while embracing contemporary artistic expression.The night also saw the legendary group Raïna Raï celebrate 45 years since its founding, performing classics like “Ya Zina Diri Latay” and “Ya Rayi Hakda”, while artist Salim Chaoui delighted fans—especially the younger generation—with his light, upbeat hits.Representing the Minister of Culture and Arts, Samir Thaâlbi, Director General of the National Copyright and Related Rights Office, stressed that the festival is an important platform to showcase and pass down Algeria’s rich heritage, discover new talents, and bring together diverse musical and artistic experiences from across the country.According to the official program, Monday night’s concert will feature performances by Amir Mirvana, Cheb Qellal, and Yacine Tiguer, promising another vibrant evening in this celebration of Algerian creativity and cultural unity
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