Algerian Radio
A conference highlighting the key moments in the life and career of Warda El Djazairia was held Sunday in Algiers. The event featured a reading of the book, "La voix, le sang et la vie. Fragments d’une présence : Warda El Jazayria" (The Voice, the Blood, and Life. Fragments of a Presence: Warda El Djazairia), written by her son, Reyad Kesri.
Hosted at the Boualem-Bessaïeh Algiers Opera House, the conference serves as a prelude to a larger commemorative event titled "Les Nuits de Warda El Jazayria" (The Nights of Warda El Djazairia). Organized under the patronage of the Minister of Culture and Arts, Ms. Malika Bendouda, the event marks the 14th anniversary of the passing of the legendary Algerian diva, who died on May 17, 2012, at the age of 73.
During the meeting, Reyad Kesri provided unique insights into the "personality and genius" of the great singer through an "intimate and deeply human narrative." He explored the duality between the musical legend, Warda El Djazairia, and the woman behind the icon, his mother, Warda Ftouki.
The book, published by Dalimen Editions, is enriched with testimonies from artists and close relatives, including the author’s wife, Yollo Kesri, who shared memories of their time and artistic collaborations with the diva.
"Les Nuits de Warda El Jazayria" will continue until May 23, featuring a program that includes exhibitions of rare personal objects and memorabilia retracing her stellar career, along with previously unseen photographs displayed in partnership with the National Center for Image and Media Documentation (CNIDM).
The program also features two major musical evenings dedicated to Warda’s rich repertoire. On May 22, the Algiers Opera Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Amine Dehane, will accompany singers Zain Awad (Jordan), Asma Ben Ahmed (Tunisia), and the winners of the latest edition of "Alhan Wa Chabab," Cheima Maalem and Sabri Azzeddine.
The second and final concert on May 23 will feature Lebanese singer Nadine Saab, supported by Algerian performers Hassiba Amrouche and Asma Sabaa.
