Arab West Report Egyptian press summaries and media research for dialogue

Over three days at the College De La Salle theatre in al-Zāhir, “One Voice Choir” teamed together with the “Al-Ru’yah” [Vision] team to present a show telling the story of Jesus Christ from birth, to crucifixion and resurrection according to Christian doctrine during the celebration of Easter.

 

Muhāb ‘Ātif, the founder of the team and the composer of the show’s music invited some Muslim musicians to participate in the show. He pointed out that the participation of Muslims was not intentional, but he sought their assistance as skillful instrumentalists. He added that they did not hesitate and accepted his invitation at once.

 

The Muslim musicians, who constituted the majority of the orchestra, played together with the Christians. Together they conveyed the universal spiritual message of the story in harmony transcending the difference between the religions.

 

Muhammad ‘Ādil, a guitarist, stated that he enjoyed participating in the show very much and that his tears were about to betray him when Peter confessed his treason to Christ. The show included many teachings and subjects that Muslims respect as well, he asserted.

 

Mahā Sayf, a Muslim violinist said that she found no problem in participating in the show because she loves hymns, pointing out that it was not the first time for her to play music in a church. Mustafá, another violinist, added that most of the classical music they play from Mozart, Verdi and Dvořák are originally masses.

 

Muhammad ‘Uwaydah, a violinist who participated in the celebrations of the mūlid before participating in this show, stated that he found no problem in participating with his Christian friends as long as his religious beliefs stay strong.

 

‘Ātif pointed out that he participated in an Islamic concert before, stressing that this was not the first time he asked for the assistance of his Muslim friends in his shows.