This collection, featuring over 300 film posters and pressbooks, unveils a treasure trove of artistic marvels that spans from the 1930s with the debut of the first Egyptian film musical, Unshoudot ol-Fuad (Song of the Heart), to the early 1970s when the genre gradually waned.

The emergence of screen musicals in Cairo marked a transformative evolution within the music scene. Egypt was undergoing a cultural renaissance – an era of creativity culminated in a flourishing recording industry, versatile musical theater productions, and vibrant music halls hosting local and international dance troupes.

Inspired by these forms, the screen musical evolved into a distinct cinematic genre. The captivating medium resonated with audiences, propelling Egyptian cinema to new heights, and sparking an enduring passion for music and film.

This curated collection delves into the dimensions of Egyptian film musicals. The showcased posters and pressbooks provide glimpses into the ingenuity of the Egyptian film industry during its golden era.

Frederic Lagrange, Professor of Contemporary Arabic Studies at Sorbonne-Universite, Paris, contributes a thought-provoking foreword to Vive l’Amour.