Kuwaiti-Tunisian musical folklore in interaction

KUN0022 4 GEN 0243 FRANCE /AFP -POI4 CUL-TUNISIA-KUWAIT-FOLKLORE Kuwaiti-Tunisian musical folklore in interaction (With photos) TUNIS, April 1 (KUNA) -- In addition to marking the 50th anniversary of Tunisia's independence, the musical ceremony organized by Kuwait information office in Tunis stressed the interaction between Kuwaiti and Tunisian musical art and cooperation among artists of the two countries. The Kuwaiti public was introduced and embraced Tunisian musical art as early as in the 1960s when prominent singer Aliyyah Al-Tunisiyah visited the state and sang songs from Kuwaiti folklore and art. More significantly, there was active cooperation in 2006 which resulted in great joint performances and projects. Kuwaiti achievement was also recognized beyond the traditional Kuwaiti color when 10 players were chosen to play under conductor Maestro Jamal Al-Khelb. There was also, in the ceremony on Independence Day, performance by three young Kuwaiti singers, one of whom was Jasem Abdelemam who chose to sing a number from Awad Dukhi's legacy and his singing of "Sawt elsahara" was received favorably. Mohammad Al-Blushi also returns to the lime lights after five years' absence and he chose to sing a number originally by Tunisian Nabiha Krawly. He also sang a duet with Krawly herself. Meanwhile, in view of such growing cooperation, the organizers of Carthage Festival proposed the participation of Kuwaiti artists in the next festival. (end) nm.wsa KUNA 011142 Apr 06NNNN