Date Published: Friday, November 22, 2024
Category: Culture
Algiers Opera House “Boualem Bessaïh” hosted the premiere of the theatrical production Tihagart… The Epic of the Sands on Thursday evening. The play, which highlights a pivotal chapter of resistance in southern Algeria against the French colonial army, was performed to a packed audience.
A Cultural and Historical Celebration
The event was attended by Minister of Culture and Arts Zohir Bellou, alongside several government officials, parliamentarians, diplomats, and directors of cultural institutions, including Mourad Cheuikhi, head of the Riyadh El Feth Office, and Abdelkader Bouazzara, director of the Algiers Opera.
Running for 65 minutes, the play portrays the resilience of the men and women of southern Algeria (“Tihagart,” meaning “free woman” in the Amazigh language) as they defended their land against French colonial incursions. Around 50 artists, including actors and dancers from various regions of Algeria, participated in the performance, bringing to life the heroic resistance led by figures such as Sheikh Amoud Mokhtar and Ibrahim Agh Abakada.
Artistic and Historical Depictions
The production combined dialogue in a blend of Arabic and a local Amazigh dialect, along with aesthetically rich dances choreographed by Ania Qassi. Large screens displayed archival footage of other historic resistance movements, such as those led by Emir Abdelkader and Fatima N’Soumer, underscoring Algeria’s enduring struggle for freedom.
Remarks from the Minister of Culture
Minister Bellou emphasized the collaborative effort between various cultural and historical institutions in producing this epic work, which was supported by the Ministry of Mujahideen (Veterans) and Rights Holders. He highlighted the launch of a comprehensive program to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Algeria’s National Liberation Revolution, set to continue through November 2025 across all provinces.
Bellou expressed a firm commitment to ensuring that upcoming cultural productions contribute significant artistic and cultural value, aiming for local, national, and international reach. He praised Algerian artists and intellectuals, both at home and abroad, as pivotal to preserving Algeria’s identity and cultural heritage, which spans thousands of years.
A Production of National Significance
Produced by the National Office of Culture and Arts under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture and Arts, the play was a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Mujahideen, the Algiers Opera, and the National Office for Culture and Information. The performance will be repeated on Friday at the same venue and time.
For more updates on cultural events in Algeria, visit DZWATCH.DZ.
Author: Nor-Eleslam
Tihagart play, Algerian revolution, cultural heritage, 70th anniversary, historical resistance
