Egyptian TV always leaves an indelible mark on our lives; from different characters, catchphrases to jaw-dropping twists, the act of sitting in front of the television has shaped and influenced our thoughts. That’s why the second edition of the Cairo Drama Festival held last Thursday in the enchanting city of New Alamein for the first time was an experience for the books that didn’t celebrate 10 but 60 years of Egyptian television productions. Here’s a recap of everything you missed from the glamorous night.
Big Wins
The awards ceremony started off strong with the eight StarScrapers awards. First one went to Kareem Abdel Aziz for his diverse body of work. Followed by, directors Kamla Abou Zekry and Peter Mimi and actors, Maged El Kedwany, Mona Zaki, Menna Shalaby and Mohamed Henedy.
Then the Jury Selection awards began. Essam Omar (Balto), Taha Desouky (Family Matter) and Omar El Sherif (Taht El Wesaya) all tying for Rising Actor. For the Rising Actress, Rana Raeis (Family Matter), Nancy Salah (Sethom) and Salma Abu Deif (El Emam El Shafee) are also all tied. Followed by Asmaa Galal nabbing the Supporting Actress for her role in El Harshaa El Sabaa, tying with Sama Ibrahim for Family Matter.
For Best Script Mariam Naoum (El Harshaa El Sabaa) and Omar Fayaad (Balto) tied. And Mohamed Shaker Khoder earned Best Director.
Best Comedy Show then went to Gaat Salima, Best Show to Taht El Wesaya and Best Actress, Mona Zaki.
Before the night came to a close, it was time for the Audience Votes. Rising Actor went to Amir Eid (Rivo) and secondary Actor Essam El Sakka (Gaafar El Omda). Secondary Actress went to Iman El Aessi (Gaafar El Omda) and the show also won Best Show voted by the audience in addition to Best Script going to Mohamed Sami and Mohamed Tarek. Followed by Best Actor, Mohamed Ramadan and Best Actress, Mona Zaki.
Performances
Now that you’re caught up on the awards, there were several iconic moments. Kicking things off with the displays and performances. Ahmed Essam starting the night off with a fiery show! Then later on, Medhat Saleh performed a nostalgic melody about the six decades of TV with a montage behind him. Speaking of montages, there was also actor Sayed Ragab taking stage to honor all of Egypt’s top and oldest storytellers such as Nour el Sherif, Gameel Rateb, Yousra, Sabrine, and more.
Iconic Moments
The heartwarming moments of the night were when the director of the festival, actor Yehia El Fakrany was honored himself to his own surprise as well as honoring the legend, Adel Emam. Moreover, the honor of late actor Mahmoud Abdel Aziz and his sons, actors Kareem and Mohamed receiving the award on his behalf. Late actor, Mostafa Darwish was also honored for his unique body of work.
Fashion Statements
Black and green seemed to be the dominating colors of the night. TV presenter, Pousy Shalabi wore a black gown with an added twist, a gold headpiece. Which isn’t quite clear the inspiration behind it.
Egyptian content creator, Asmaa Sherif Mounir rocked a new haircut – completely shaved which left everyone talking. This led Sherif Mounir, the second day post-festival to post a video standing up for her. One of the most heartwarming moments that came out of the festival if you ask us.
Aside from the stand-out fashion statements of the festival, Asmaa Galal wore an elegant floral beige and grey gown by Tony Ward that caught attention for all the right reasons.
It was a big night for Mona Zaki and Taht El Wesaya earning major awards across all categories from editing, to best show, supporting actor, and many more. It was also a memorable night for rising stars. And quite the eclectic one when it comes to fashion.
Let us know your favorite moment from the festival.
WE SAID THIS: Don’t Miss…Yehia El-Fakhrany, Karim Abdelaziz & More To Shine At The Cairo Drama Festival’s 2nd Edition
