Egyptian actress, producer, and television presenter Esaad Younes has been honored at the 19th edition of the National Festival of Egyptian Theatre, celebrating a stage career that has spanned several decades.
The tribute took place during the festival’s opening ceremony at the Grand Theatre of the Cairo Opera House, recognizing Younes’ lasting contribution to Egyptian theatre and her wider influence across the country’s entertainment industry.
A Special Recognition for Her Theatre Career
Although Younes has received several honors throughout her career, she described this award as particularly meaningful because it was the first recognition dedicated specifically to her work in theatre.
Speaking about the moment, she said the honor represented the fulfillment of a long-held wish and felt like a culmination of her journey on stage.
Younes has appeared in more than 15 theatrical productions across comedy and social drama. Her notable stage credits include Al Dukhool Bel Malabes Al Rasmeya, Arousa Tegannen, Ballo, W El Sayeda Hormaha, and Goha Yahkom Al Madina.
Esaad Younes Dedicates the Honor to Her Mentors
During her speech, Younes dedicated the tribute to several artists and directors who played important roles in shaping her career.
She paid tribute to the late Soheir El Bably and Samir Ghanem, saying their support had been central to her development as a performer. She also thanked director El Sayed Rady for giving her an early opportunity on stage and credited director Samir El Asfory with teaching her much of what she knows about theatrical performance.
Younes also acknowledged director Khaled Galal, who helped facilitate her return to theatre later in her career.
A Call to Preserve Egypt’s Theatre History
Beyond reflecting on her own journey, Younes used the occasion to highlight the importance of documenting Egyptian stage productions.
She expressed regret that many important performances were never professionally filmed and now survive only through the memories of those who attended them. She called for completed theatrical productions to be recorded and archived to protect Egypt’s stage heritage for future generations.
The Festival’s 19th Edition
Chaired by actor Mohamed Riad and supported by Egypt’s Ministry of Culture, the 19th National Festival of Egyptian Theatre is scheduled to continue until August 11.
The festival is presenting 38 theatrical productions from cultural institutions, universities, and independent companies, alongside workshops, discussions, and events exploring the development of contemporary Egyptian theatre.
By honoring Esaad Younes, the festival celebrates not only a familiar screen personality but also an artist whose theatrical work remains an important part of Egypt’s cultural history.
