In a move to bring arts and culture closer to underserved communities, Egypt’s Minister of Culture, Dr. Jehan Zaki, met with acclaimed marimba artist Dr. Nasma Abdel Aziz to discuss the launch of the “Joy and Smile” carnival, an initiative aimed at delivering unique cultural experiences to villages, rural neighborhoods, and regions with limited access to artistic services.
The carnival is part of the Ministry of Culture’s broader program to support serious arts, nurture creativity, and foster direct engagement between artists and local communities across the country.
During the meeting, Minister Zaki emphasized the importance of promoting exceptional talent and supporting projects that focus on innovation and interactive cultural experiences. She affirmed the ministry’s commitment to providing full backing to ensure the success of the initiative and the achievement of its objectives.
For her part, Dr. Nasma Abdel Aziz expressed her delight at collaborating with the Ministry, which she described as her “first home.” She highlighted that the “Joy and Smile” carnival aims to offer interactive musical performances that blend tradition with contemporary artistry, catering to audiences of all ages.
The initiative represents a strategic effort by the Egyptian government to bridge cultural gaps, ensuring that even the most remote and underserved communities can enjoy high-quality artistic experiences. By combining music, performance, and community engagement, the carnival seeks to inspire creativity and provide meaningful cultural interactions beyond urban centers.
As the Ministry of Culture continues to champion arts across Egypt, initiatives like the “Joy and Smile” carnival demonstrate the power of cultural outreach to unite communities, stimulate artistic expression, and nurture a national appreciation for music and the arts.
