Awadi

In the early twentieth century, a large rural exodus leads to the suburbs of Cairo peasants in search for a better life.

The meeting of their musical repertoire with this new framework of living, evolving politically and culturally, gives rise to the Baladi style. The traditionals expand their melodies, and incorporate new instruments: saxophone, accordion, clarinet...
Expression of a community uprooted. The Baladi declines many emotions between lyricism and restraint, lightness and nostalgia, and this thematic richness makes it timeless.

Awadi, Visions of Egyptian Baladi features a free but respectful interpretation of this tradition.

On hearing the Nay and Accordion, texts from Europe and Africa meet over the rythms while the dancing evokes the urban environments:

Effervescence and nostalgia, sweetness and violence, love and loneliness...
Visages of the human beings, from north to south, from Paris to Cairo...

A poetry gesture that leads the viewer to the towns of his imagination.

Inspired by the mystical trance and healing rituals, the final dance is dedicated to all those who provide warmth and understanding whatever the difficulties of their lives, driven by their faith in God or Humanity ...

Tickets £17, Concessions £15