Midnight in Cairo: The Female Stars of Egypt's Roaring `20s

In the 1920s, a counterculture emerged in Cairo with female singers, dramatic troupes, and cabarets dominating the scene. Badia Masabni's dancehall, Aziza Amir's stage debut, and Oum Kalthoum's rise to fame were among the most famous troupes run by women. Midnight in Cairo explores Egypt's interwar nightlife and entertainment industry through the lives of these pioneering women, revealing a world of revolutionary ideas and provocative art that laid the foundations of Arab popular culture today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 330 pages
Publication date: 06 May 2021
Publisher: Saqi Books

In the vibrant city of Cairo during the 1920s, a counterculture was flourishing, with singers pressing hit records, dramatic troupes emerging, and cabarets packed to the brim. People from all walks of life gathered in bars, hash dens, and music halls, united by a shared passion for art. Among these performers, the women of Cairo stood out as the brightest stars, taking the stage with unprecedented confidence and charisma. Two of the most renowned troupes were led by women, Badia Masabni's dancehall becoming the hottest nightspot in town, pioneering Egyptian cinema Aziza Amir making her stage debut, and legendary singer Oum Kalthoum rising to fame. These women, who were acutely aware of the opportunities and prejudices that this world offered, were the best storytellers of the cosmopolitan and raucous city's secrets.

Midnight in Cairo is a captivating tale that delves into the exhilarating world of Egypt's interwar nightlife and entertainment industry. Through the lives of its pioneering women, the film brings to life a realm of revolutionary ideas and provocative art that laid the foundations of Arab popular culture today. The film introduces an eccentric cast of characters, painting a vivid picture of a world that was both daring and daring. It is a story of modern Cairo as we have never heard it before, offering a fresh perspective on a city that has undergone significant transformation over the years.

The 1920s were a time of immense cultural and social change in Egypt, with the rise of a new generation of artists and intellectuals who sought to challenge the traditional norms and values of society. The women of Cairo were at the forefront of this movement, using their talents and platforms to express their ideas and advocate for change. Badia Masabni, for instance, was a pioneering dancer and actress who opened her own dancehall, which became a hub of creativity and innovation. She challenged the conservative views of society by promoting women's rights and empowerment through her performances.

Aziza Amir, on the other hand, was a pioneering filmmaker who made her mark on the Egyptian cinema industry. She directed the first Egyptian feature film, "Theeb," which was a critical success and won several international awards. Amir's work was a reflection of the social and political struggles of the time, and she used her films to raise awareness about the issues facing Egyptian society.

Oum Kalthoum, known as the "Queen of Arabic Music," was a legendary singer who captivated audiences around the world with her powerful voice and emotional performances. She was a symbol of resistance against the oppressive Egyptian government and used her music to promote social justice and freedom.

These women, along with many others, played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of Egypt during the 1920s. Their contributions to art, music, and cinema continue to inspire and influence generations of artists and activists today. Midnight in Cairo is a testament to the power of women and their ability to create change in a society that was often resistant to change. It is a film that celebrates the resilience and creativity of these pioneering women, and it reminds us of the importance of preserving the legacy of their work for future generations.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780863563133