This year’s edition, organized in partnership with the province and the Provincial Council of Ifrane, as well as the commune of Aïn Leuh, will celebrate the poetic and musical arts of the Middle Atlas, with 37 troupes representing different styles and expressions of this authentic heritage art from several provinces of the Kingdom, indicates the ministry in a press release.
The festival includes tributes to prominent artists and performers of ahidous art,in recognition of their distinguished artistic career and creativity,as well as their great services in preserving and promoting this art and its noble artistic and humanist messages.
This art is one of the main elements of Morocco’s intangible musical heritage, reflecting the richness of national folklore, notes the same source, noting that the ministry has made its promotion, preservation and transmission to rising generations a priority.
the Ministry of Culture has worked to preserve the Ahidous arts, like all other conventional musical genres, through a series of mechanisms, measures and activities, including the organization of the Ahidous National Festival, which constitutes a platform for the revitalization and enhancement of this heritage, the creation of festive spaces to highlight its characteristics and present it to the general public and its integration into the economic, social and cultural movement in rural areas where it is organized, adds the same source.
What are the main features of the Ahidous National Festival and its cultural significance in Morocco?
Interview with Dr.Ahmed El Messaoudi, Expert in Moroccan Cultural Heritage on the Ahidous National Festival
Time.news Editor (TNE): Dr. El messaoudi, thank you for joining us today. This year’s Ahidous National Festival celebrates the poetic and musical arts of the Middle Atlas. Could you elaborate on the significance of this festival?
Dr. Ahmed El Messaoudi (DA): Thank you for having me. The Ahidous National Festival is vital for promoting and preserving Morocco’s intangible musical heritage. This year’s event, featuring 37 troupes representing diverse styles, not only showcases the artistic expressions of the Middle Atlas but also strengthens community bonds and cultural identity among the Moroccan people.
TNE: That’s fascinating! The festival also pays tribute to prominent artists in Ahidous art.Why is this recognition crucial?
DA: Recognizing artists and performers is essential for several reasons.It celebrates their contributions to preserving and promoting Ahidous art, which carries profound humanistic and artistic messages. Acknowledging their work encourages younger generations to appreciate and continue this rich tradition, ensuring its longevity.
TNE: the Ministry of Culture has prioritized the preservation of Ahidous arts.What measures have been put in place to support this initiative?
DA: the ministry has implemented a variety of measures, including organizing the Ahidous National Festival itself. Thay’re also creating festive spaces to highlight these cultural characteristics and integrating Ahidous art into the economic, social, and cultural movements of rural areas. This holistic approach ensures that the art form not only thrives but becomes a source of livelihood and pride for local communities.
TNE: What role does Ahidous art play in Morocco’s national folklore?
DA: Ahidous art is integral to Morocco’s national folklore,reflecting our diverse heritage. It encompasses storytelling, music, and dance that narrates the shared experiences of the Moroccan people, promoting cultural cohesion. By celebrating this art, we also celebrate our identity and history.
TNE: How can the younger generation get involved in the preservation of ahidous arts?
DA: Engaging the younger population is crucial. They can participate by attending festivals, joining workshops, or even forming youth troupes. Educational initiatives in schools about this art form can also sow the seeds of interest and respect for our intangible heritage. Digital platforms may also be leveraged to reach a broader audience and create innovative expressions of Ahidous art.
TNE: Lastly, from your viewpoint, why should people pursue an interest in the arts, particularly traditional forms like Ahidous?
DA: Engaging with traditional forms of art like Ahidous provides a rich ground for cultural understanding and personal expression. It fosters a sense of belonging and continuity while serving as a means of creativity and innovation. In our rapidly changing world, grounding ourselves in our heritage is not just essential for personal identity, but also for cultural survival and evolution.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. El Messaoudi, for sharing your insights with us today. Your expertise sheds valuable light on the importance of preserving our cultural heritage through initiatives like the Ahidous National Festival.
DA: It was my pleasure. Thank you for bringing attention to this critical aspect of our culture.