Poet Hany Abdel Karim, a member of the senior preparatory committee for the 34th edition of the Arab Music Festival, discussed the series of withdrawals affecting this year’s festival.
The 34th edition is scheduled to take place from October 20 through October 30, with Hany Abdel Karim emphasizing that the festival will continue with its participating artists.
Hany Abdel Karim Discusses the Festival Withdrawals
The Festival Continues With Its Artists
Hany Abdel Karim said that the Arab Music Festival continues with its participating artists, highlighting the supportive position taken by singer Medhat Saleh.
He praised Medhat Saleh’s support for the festival and described him as a voice strongly associated with Egypt, saying that hearing his voice immediately reminds him of the country.
Comments on the Reasons Behind the Withdrawals
Hany Abdel Karim said he personally did not know the reasons behind the withdrawals from this year’s edition.
He also stated that, in his view, comments made by Dr. Reda El-Wakil did not contain an insult toward anyone. He added that the committee had expressed its appreciation to the artists who supported the festival during the press conference.
Artists Who Reduced or Waived Their Fees
Hany Abdel Karim also addressed reports concerning artists who either reduced their fees or waived them for the current edition.
He explained that these decisions were made voluntarily by the artists and were not requested by the festival administration.
He added that the festival organizers were keen to thank the artists and acknowledge their supportive positions.
Ramy Sabry Announces His Participation
Separately, singer Ramy Sabry announced that he would participate in the 34th edition of the Arab Music Festival following the series of withdrawals affecting the current edition.
Sabry highlighted his personal connection to the festival, noting that he graduated from the Higher Institute of Arabic Music at the Academy of Arts and therefore understands the festival’s significance.
Ramy Sabry Offers His Support
Ramy Sabry announced his participation and said that he was placing himself at the disposal of the Egyptian Opera House, expressing his support for the current edition.
His announcement comes as preparations continue for the 34th edition, scheduled to run from October 20 to October 30.
Hany Abdel Karim: The Festival Represents Egypt
Hany Abdel Karim said that this was not the appropriate time to undermine an established festival that audiences look forward to every year.
He also emphasized the festival’s connection to Egypt and its importance as an annual cultural and musical event.
When will the 34th Arab Music Festival take place?
The 34th edition is scheduled to begin on October 20 and continue through October 30.
What did Hany Abdel Karim say about the withdrawals?
He said he did not personally know the reasons behind them and stated that, in his view, the disputed comments did not insult anyone.
What did he say about artists reducing their fees?
He explained that some artists voluntarily reduced or waived their fees rather than doing so at the request of the festival administration.
Will Ramy Sabry participate in the festival?
Yes. Ramy Sabry announced his participation in the 34th edition and expressed his support for the festival and the Egyptian Opera House.
