Nostalgia: Algeria’s Artistic Marvel to Shine at Cairo International Experimental Theater Festival
BY: Hana Saada
Algeria, August 31, 2023 – In a remarkable stride towards artistic excellence, Algeria is poised to captivate audiences at the prestigious Cairo International Experimental Theater Festival with its extraordinary play, “Nostalgia.” Presented by the cooperative “Le Théâtre du Point” from Oran, this theatrical masterpiece promises to be a standout in the global arena of experimental theater.
Scheduled to unfold from September 1 to 8, the International Festival of Experimental Theater in Cairo, Egypt, is set to embrace the remarkable creativity that “Nostalgia” embodies. Directed by the accomplished Lakhdar Mansouri, the play has garnered the formidable backing of the Ministry of Culture and Arts as well as the Algerian National Theater (TNA). This support underscores the significance of “Nostalgia” and its potential to become an emblematic representation of Algeria’s theatrical prowess.
**”Nostalgia”**, a unique adaptation of “The story of the panda bears told by a saxophonist who has a girlfriend in Frankfurt,” a compelling work by the Franco-Romanian playwright Matéi Visniec, translated by Abdelmadjid Al Haouasse, holds a powerfully captivating narrative that unfolds through the masterful artistry of the duo Asma Cheikh and Fathi Mebarki. With their spellbinding performances, they transport the audience into a world where nostalgia is woven intricately into the fabric of human emotions.
*Le Théâtre du Point* cooperative, founded in 1995 in the vibrant city of Oran, boasts an impressive portfolio of productions that have enraptured audiences both in Algeria and across international stages. Their notable works, including “Kalaat al Karama” (2013), “Mara Mara” (2002), “Kannet Lila” (1997), and “Al-Kina’e” (1995), have firmly established them as a creative force to be reckoned with.
The Cairo International Festival of Experimental Theater holds a special place in the realm of experimental theater, being one of the oldest and most respected platforms for showcasing avant-garde creations from around the world. The inclusion of “Nostalgia” in the official competition reflects not only the vibrancy of Algeria’s theatrical landscape but also the universal resonance of its themes.
