Carmen Suleiman took center stage Thursday night at Morocco’s National Theatre to kick off the 20th edition of the Mawazine Festival, an event that has grown into one of the most significant cultural gatherings in the Arab world. The Egyptian singer, who rose to fame in 2013 after winning Arab Idol, was warmly received by Moroccan fans, whom she praised for their deep appreciation of music and their heartfelt engagement.
Speaking to the press before her performance, Suleiman expressed how honored she felt to open this milestone edition, which marks two decades of Mawazine’s evolution into a landmark celebration of global music. She described the evening as an emotionally charged experience, made all the more memorable by the audience’s passion and energy—something she considers a defining moment in her artistic journey.
For the occasion, Suleiman chose to wear a traditional Moroccan caftan, paying tribute to the country’s rich cultural heritage. She took a moment to highlight not only the elegance and growing visibility of this iconic garment across the Arab world but also the vibrancy of Morocco’s diverse musical traditions.
She went on to share her personal admiration for Moroccan music, revealing that she’s seriously considering singing in the local dialect. She even hinted at a possible collaboration with a Moroccan artist in the near future, underlining her desire to explore new musical horizons.
When asked about her artistic identity, Suleiman explained that she constantly strives to balance emotional authenticity with artistic reinvention. As both a performer and a mother, she admitted that navigating these dual roles can be challenging, yet she embraces them with intensity. The hardest part, she confessed, is maintaining a genuine connection with her audience while continuing to push her creative boundaries.
This year’s Mawazine Festival, held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, promises nine days of performances in Rabat and Salé. From June 20 to 28, international artists will take the stage, blending genres and traditions to create a vibrant musical dialogue that transcends borders.
