The Tunisian artist delivers a memorable second performance at the ancient amphitheater, joined by Egyptian stars Ahmed Zaeem and Rahma Mohsen in a celebration of cross-cultural collaboration.
For its fourth evening, the 60th edition of the International Festival of Carthage witnessed a homecoming three years in the making as Tunisian artist Nordo returned to the stage of the historic Amphitheater of Carthage. Performing alongside Egyptian guests Ahmed Zaeem and Rahma Mohsen, Nordo delivered a spellbinding show where music, dance, and theatrical production merged in an atmosphere thick with emotion and audience connection.
Tuesday night marked Nordo’s second performance at the iconic venue, backed by the Tunisian National Orchestra under the direction of Youssef Belheni, who also contributed fresh arrangements to several of the artist’s beloved songs.
From the opening notes, the nearly packed amphitheater erupted as the crowd—a diverse tapestry of generations—sang along in unison, creating the kind of warm, enveloping energy that sustained the concert from start to finish.
A Spectacular Opening
The show launched with “Arbouch,” featuring meticulously crafted staging. Surrounded by dancers, Nordo made a spectacular entrance, underscored by precise choreography and dynamic spatial composition. Visibly moved by the reception, the artist addressed the audience directly: “I love you. I came for you. I am happy.”
Setlist Highlights and Emotional Moments
Nordo proceeded through a selection of his greatest hits, including “Trabit,” “Ena W Lil,” “Ghariba,” and “Ya Denya,” each met with enthusiastic response from fans spanning multiple generations.
One of the evening’s most poignant moments arrived with his performance of “Mama,” accompanied by a choreographed visual tableau. Following the song, Nordo shared an intimate moment with the audience: “My mother is here, my father too. I am very happy.” The revelation drew sustained applause, deepening the personal connection between artist and audience.
Egyptian Guest Stars Shine
The night continued with Ahmed Zaeem joining Nordo for “Ya Araf,” one of the standout tracks from their collaborative repertoire. Shortly after, Egyptian vocalist Rahma Mohsen took the stage to perform “Ser Wajaana” (The Secret of Our Pain) alongside Nordo. The track, released in May 2026, has already accumulated over 23.5 million views on YouTube and received a rapturous welcome from the Carthage crowd.
A Multidisciplinary Spectacle
Beyond his established catalog, Nordo crafted a truly immersive stage experience where multiple artistic disciplines converged. Choreographed sequences, visual tableaus, and theatrical staging interwove seamlessly with dance performances, lighting effects, and audience interaction—creating a living artwork where music, movement, and scenic expression engaged in constant dialogue.
Musical Fusion at Its Finest
The musical direction, spearheaded by Belheni, played an integral role in defining the show’s identity. The new arrangements bridged diverse musical worlds, weaving together flamenco-infused solos, dabka rhythms, Stambeli textures, gnawa music pulsations, and Afro influences—a testament to Nordo’s evolving artistic vision.
A Milestone in Nordo’s Career
With this second Carthage appearance, Nordo solidifies his artistic trajectory, presenting a spectacle that masterfully balances musicality, emotional depth, and theatrical innovation—proving once again why he remains one of the most compelling voices in contemporary Tunisian music.
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