Inspired by the works of Al-Sayyab, Darwish, and García Lorca, Naseer Shamma Dazzles Montreal at the 25th edition of the Festival du Monde Arabe.
Last Sunday, Montreal was treated to an unforgettable evening as Naseer Shamma made a spectacular return for the 25th edition of the Festival du Monde Arabe.
In his performance titled Burning Strings, Shamma delivered a symphonic blend of music and poetry dedicated to peoples yearning for freedom. With unparalleled artistry, he transformed the Oud into a vessel of liberation.
On stage, Shamma wielded his Oud like a seasoned revolutionary, his music transcending borders and languages.
Drawing inspiration from three legendary poets—Mahmoud Darwish, the voice of homeland and identity; Badr Shakir al-Sayyab, the dreamer of human freedom; and Federico García Lorca, the martyred poet and symbol of rebellious beauty—Shamma created an artistic epic that transported the audience to the heart of human struggle and the universal quest for freedom.
His performance was more than just melodies; it was a spiritual language, a cry of resilience and hope. It wove together profound pain and an unyielding will to break free from oppression, with every string of the Oud telling the story of a people fighting for dignity and survival.
Canadian choreographer Audrey Gosselin and her dance troupe added a stunning visual element to the music. It was a powerful blend of beauty and defiance, creating a moment of artistic magic that will be hard to forget.
As the remarkable performance came to a close, Shamma received a wave of applause, and he took a moment to express his deep appreciation for the Festival du Monde Arabe. “This festival is more than a stage for art; it’s a bridge between cultures, a reminder of our shared humanity,” he said.
Shamma praised the festival’s role over the past 25 years in bringing together creativity and cultural exchange, and he acknowledged the hard work of its organizers who keep Arab culture alive and thriving in North America.
More than just a performance, Burning Strings honored the human struggle and reminded the audience of the lasting power of art in the face of adversity. It was a night that will stay with Montreal, a testament to the magic that happens when music and poetry meet in a shared quest for freedom.
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