The 52nd National Festival of Popular Arts (FNAP) in Marrakech started with great fanfare under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This event showcases the rich Moroccan cultural heritage, featuring a main show that captivates spectators from the first notes of music in the ancient quarters of the medinas.
An enthralling opening
The show opens with a flutist, a "ghyate," positioned on the left side of the stage, playing enchanting melodies from the top of the theater stairs. The audience's admiring gazes are fixed on him, captivated by his performance and the gentle melodies of his instrument that unfold for about ten minutes.
Regional diversity takes center stage
Among the participating troupes are the Ahidouss from Tighssaline (Khénifra), Ain Orma (Meknès), Imintanoute (Marrakech), and Kelaat Megouna. The enchanting rhythms of the Oulad Sidi Hmad Ou Moussa (Marrakech), accompanied by impressive acrobatics, captivate festival-goers. The Gnaouas from the ochre city also contribute to this cultural experience, along with the Hait Tissa troupe from Taounate and the Taskiwine troupe from Chichaoua.
Memorable moments and breathtaking performances
One of the highlights of this show is the performance of the Mizane Houara group, accompanied by a single artist singing on the "Nya." The lyrics resonate: "Those who lack faith have no good destiny." The beautiful melodies of the "Rokba" from Zagora, the swirling swords of Akllal Sif from the same region, the rhythmic guedra of Goulmime, the dances of Ahwach Tissent from Tata, Aglal from Taroudant, Aouad Masskina from Agadir, and Ait Hdido (Imilchil) ignite the audience.
A touch of humor and entertainment
The reggada from Oujda make a majestic entrance, with their rhythms being particularly appreciated, just like the hilarious lyrics from the Abidat Rma troupe from Oued Zem, delighting the festival-goers. The performances of the "Tabala" and "Daqqa" troupes from Marrakech also captivate the audience.
Cultural and touristic promotion
Meanwhile, the Ahwach performance from Ouarzazate is accompanied by beautiful images of the Kingdom projected in the background, thus promoting Morocco to the foreign attendees. The show concludes with the enchanting rhythms of the "Daqqa," accompanied by those of the Gnaouas and other troupes, as well as the Amazigh chant from the Atlas region.
An expression of appreciation
During the dress rehearsal, an artist from the "Tabala" group in Marrakech did not hesitate to invite Mohamed Knidiri, President of the Grand Atlas Association and initiator of the festival, to dance. This gesture is a testament to the appreciation for the initiatives he undertakes to promote folk arts in Morocco.
The public's call for Rhany
Before the performance at the Royal Theater, the Moroccan singer Rhany Kabbaj, who is also a comedian, catches the attention of the audience. His name echoes through the theater as spectators call out for him. The artist was also expected to perform during a star-studded night at Jamaâ El Fna square. His show delighted Moroccans and tourists with songs like "Zinek," "Jabni mjiba," and "El Cuarto de tula," performed in a restaurant across from the stage. He shared the stage with the "Rokba" troupe from Zagora, the "Guedra" from Guelmime, and a Peruvian artist. Rhany also performed his new single "Teslem li ya lghali" and "Bladi Lghalia."
Celebration of Moroccan Cultural Wealth
The 52nd FNAP in Marrakech is a true spectacle that celebrates the Moroccan cultural heritage in all its splendor. The enchanting rhythms, captivating dances, and remarkable artistic performances enchant the festival-goers and promote the cultural richness of Morocco to the national and international audience attending this exceptional event.Read More
EN 
FR 