Tomorrow, Cairo’s National Theater will honor Salah Jaheen, one of Egypt’s most prolific and versatile artists, with an evening titled “Jaheen… Egypt’s Laughter.” The celebration, organized by the National Center for Theater, Music, and Folk Arts, begins at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, December 24th, and is open to the public free of charge with advance booking.
A Life in Art: Poetry, Music, Film, and Caricature
Jaheen’s creative footprint spans poetry, song, theater, cinema, and caricature. He penned the scripts for iconic films like Khali Balak Men Zuzu, Amirah Hubbi Ana, Shafiqa we Metwali, and Al Motawahesha, while also acting in several films.
As a journalist and cartoonist, he contributed to Bint Al Nil, Al-Gomhuria, Rose El Youssef, and Al-Ahram, with his whimsical yet incisive caricatures earning him a reputation for constructive critique.
Musical and Literary Mastery
Jaheen’s poetry and songs remain central to Egyptian culture. His celebrated Rubaiyat, composed by the legendary Sayed Mekawy and performed by Ali Elhaggar, became a phenomenon, selling over 125,000 copies in a couple of days.
He also co-created beloved works like the puppet operetta El-Leila El-Kebira, forging a lifelong collaboration with Mekawy. Among over 160 poems, ‘Ala Esm Masr’ stands as a timeless testament to his love for Egypt.
A Living Legacy
Tomorrow’s celebration will feature a vibrant storytelling and singing performance, accompanied by the National Center’s musical ensemble. The event captures the wit, poetry, and music of Salah Jaheen, reflecting the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to honoring Egypt’s artistic icons and preserving their legacy.
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