The 60th edition of the Carthage International Festival is set to commence on Thursday, July 16, 2026, with an opening performance by Tunisian artist Saber Rebaï. The festival, one of the most prominent artistic events in the Arab world, will run through August 19, featuring an extensive program of musical and theatrical performances held at the historic Carthage amphitheater.
Opening Night: “Under the Jasmine”
Saber Rebaï’s opening concert, titled “Under the Jasmine,” is designed to blend visual innovation with Tunisian identity. According to the festival’s official social media channels, the performance will feature guest appearances by a selection of Tunisian artists, including Lotfi Bouchnak, Boutheina Nabouli, Ahmed Rebaï, and Dali Chbili. A notable highlight of the opening night will be the participation of Algerian star Cheb Khaled. Rebaï has been sharing behind-the-scenes footage of his rehearsals with his musical ensemble, emphasizing the scale of the event as the festival marks its six-decade milestone.
A Diverse International and Regional Program
The 60th-anniversary program features a wide array of talent from across the globe. Alongside regional stars, the festival has curated a lineup that spans various musical genres and international origins. The announced artist lineup includes: * From the Arab World: Majida El Roumi (who will perform the closing concert), Elissa (returning to the Carthage stage after a 17-year absence), Mayada El Hennawy and Mohamed Khairy from Syria, Tamer Ashour from Egypt, and Rayan from Lebanon. * Tunisian Artists: Marwan Jebali (known as “Nordou”), Yosra Mahnouch, Nabihah Karaouli, and Amina Fakhet. * International Guests: Sami Yusuf (Britain/Iran), Angélique Kidjo (Benin), Rondo Veneziano (Italy), the American group The Jacksons, and the Spanish group Terra Benedetta. Additionally, the Tunisian Symphony Orchestra, led by Maestro Shadi Al-Qarfi, is scheduled to perform a concert titled “Symphonies 60: Sixty Years of Tunisian Music.” Beyond music, the festival will feature theatrical programming, including the play “Al-Qarhamana” by Moez Toumi. Specific celebrations are also planned for Women’s Day, featuring Nabihah Karaouli, and Republic Day, which will feature a group of Tunisian artists.
Festival Context and Artist Perspectives
The 60th edition is being described as an exceptional session, with organizers focusing on the return of prominent stars who have been absent from the festival for several years. Ahead of the festival, Saber Rebaï has been active in his professional career, recently releasing a new song titled “Tayr.” The track was produced with a focus on modern production standards, featuring lyrics by Salah Balloul, music by Ahmed Barakat, and arrangements by Zaher Deeb. The accompanying music video was filmed in Dubai under the direction of Bassam Al-Turk. In recent media appearances, Rebaï has spoken about his long-term career outlook. During a guest appearance on the podcast “Qissati” with Lebanese journalist Mohamed Qais, Rebaï expressed his intention to retire from singing within the next three to five years. He stated that this decision is motivated by a desire to preserve his artistic history and the high standard of performance his audience expects, noting that he would prefer to step away rather than continue if he felt his ability to deliver at a high level was declining. As the festival opens, the focus remains on the anniversary celebrations and the series of performances that will anchor the summer season in Tunisia.
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