The Egyptian National Theatre Festival, headed by renowned actor Mohamed Riyad, has announced that celebrated actress and media personality Esaad Younes will be honored during its 19th edition in recognition of her outstanding artistic career and her significant contributions to the Egyptian theatre movement.
The tribute comes as part of the festival’s longstanding tradition of celebrating leading figures whose work has left a lasting mark on the history of Egyptian theatre.
Younes was selected in appreciation of a theatrical career spanning several decades, during which she appeared in more than 15 stage productions ranging from comedy to social drama. Among her most notable performances are Wal Sayeda Horma alongside the late actor Youssef Shaaban, Arousa Tiganen, Ballo, Al-Dokhoul Bel-Malabes Al-Rasmeya, and Goha Yahkom Al-Madina—productions that enjoyed wide public acclaim and cemented her status as one of Egypt’s most distinguished theatre stars.
Expressing her gratitude, Younes said she was deeply honored to be recognized among the recipients of the festival’s 19th edition, describing the award as particularly meaningful because of its connection to the theatre, which she considers the true starting point of her artistic journey.
“I greatly cherish this honor because it comes from the Egyptian National Theatre Festival. Theatre was never just one stage of my career; it was the first school where I learned discipline, commitment, and respect for the audience. I still believe it is the foundation upon which every genuine artist is built,” she said.
She added that her bond with the theatre has remained strong despite her extensive work in cinema, television, and broadcasting, noting that performing live on stage gives artists a unique sense of responsibility and creates an honest, direct connection with audiences unlike any other artistic medium.
Younes concluded by thanking the festival’s organizers for the recognition and expressed hope that Egyptian theatre would continue to discover emerging talents and nurture future generations of artists, describing it as one of the country’s most important pillars of soft power.
For his part, Festival President Mohamed Riyad said the decision to honor Younes reflects appreciation for a rich artistic career in which theatre has played a central role. He noted that her body of work remains an integral part of Egypt’s theatrical legacy and that recognizing her at the 19th edition underscores the festival’s commitment to celebrating the pioneers who have enriched the country’s theatre movement and shaped its history.
TunisianMonitorNews
