At that time, in Algeria under French colonial occupation, something new was happening, particularly in the music world: the birth of raï.
It was an unprecedented, free musical genre, driven by daring women who were about to overturn established norms. Often perceived as ‘depraved’, they were in fact the pioneers of this rebellious music that inspired so many generations. They paved the way for iconic figures such as Cheikha Rimitti, Cheikha Djenia, Cheikha Rabia, Zohra, Fadéla and Zahouania, who would establish their legacy in the sphere of modern raï.
On stage, two female singers accompanied by an orchestra tell a universal story inspired by the diversity and richness of music from the Arab world, while highlighting the unique lives of the pioneers of raï.
Les Dames du raï is Cabaret Sauvage's new musical creation, imagined by Méziane Azaïche, co-directed with Géraldine Bénichou and co-written with Rabah Mezouane.
"Just two minutes. That's all it took for the audience at Cabaret Sauvage to hit the dance floor, irresistibly drawn in by the sound of this exceptionnal raï concert." - RFI
“They remained in the shadow of men: Les Dames du raï, presented at Cabaret Sauvage, shines a light on these lesser, known women who gave voice to this Algerian musical genre.” - JT 19/20 France TV
“To honor iconic figures like Cheikha Rimitti or Cheikha Djenia, head to this show, which steers far away from clichés. “ - Cosmopolitan
Concerts
Available soon, thanks.