Cartouche Dimanche
Equipe de rédaction:
Abd El Massih Nazeem
Dalia Victor
28 Mai 2006
Michael Victor
Névine Lameï 20 Bachans 1722
Caroline Onsy, Nermine Onsy Rédacteur en chef Directrice de rédaction 1 Gamad al-Awal 1427
Mise en page: Youssef Sidhom Laura Hakim 1ère ANNEE
Héba Adel NUMERO 4
Révision:
Rafik Baracat
En Bref Attentat de Dahab
L'Egypte accuse un groupe palestinien de Gaza
Abdel Massih Nazeem sponsable de cette attaque,
la troisième dans le Sinaï en
deux ans. Selon ce com-
L'Egypte a, pour la pre- muniqué, deux membres de
mière fois, accusé une filière ce groupe sont parvenus à
palestinienne de la bande de entrer dans les territoires pa-
Gaza d'implication dans le lestiniens et à établir des con-
triple attentat de Dahab, com- tacts avec des Palestiniens
Egypte: mis en avril par trois ka- fondamentalistes. Le ministre
L’organisation américaine "Se- mikazes égyptiens. Le mini- de l'Intérieur a soupçonné
mences de la paix" a accordé à stre de l'Interieur, Habib Al ces intermédiaires d'avoir ap-
l’épouse du Président de la Rép- Adli, a déclaré que les auteurs porté une aide financière et
ublique, Mme Suzanne Moubarak, des explosions mortelles à logistique aux terroristes.
présidente du Mouvement inter-
Dahab, au Sinaï, avaient été
national "Suzanne Moubarak de la
femme pour la paix", le prix "Faiseur
entraînés par des activistes palestiniens dans la bande de Réseau d'Al Qaïda
Gaza. Des experts en sécurité ont soupçonné la présence de cel-
de la paix John B.Walch".
lules liées au réseau terroriste d'Al Qaïda dans la bande de
Varsovie: Danger du fondamentalisme Gaza, mais les responsables israéliens et palestiniens n'ont
Le ministre Al Adli a indiqué, dans un communiqué que Nas- rien dit. Diaa Rachwan, spécialiste de l'islamisme armé au cen-
ser Khamis Al Malahi, soupçonné être derrière les attaques, av- tre d'études politiques et stratégiques d'Al Ahram, a explique
ait envoyé trois kamikazes dans la bande de Gaza pour re- représentants d'un ennemi, l'occident, qu'ils ne peuvent pas que ces terroristes ne visent plus les touristes dans le but de
cevoir des entraînements sur les armes et les explosifs. combattre directement, que ce soit en Afghanistan ou en Irak. déstabiliser l'Etat mais parce qu'ils les considèrent comme des
Le communiqué a également mentionné le nom d'un im- Ils se sont donc attaqué à ceux qu'ils ont sous la main et, en représentants d'un ennemi, l'occident, qu'ils ne peuvent pas
portant suspect, Tamer Nusseirat, qui aurait été placé en garde Egypte. Il a ajouté qu'un autre point qui inquiète les autorités, combattre directement, que ce soit en Afghanistan ou en Irak.
à vue en Egypte. Le ministre de l'Intérieur a affirmé qu'il s'agit c'est le radicalisme de L'Egypte a, pour la première fois, accusé Ils se sont donc attaqué à ceux qu'ils ont sous la main et, en
des membres du groupe Al Tawhid wal Jihad, tenu pour re- une filière palestinienne de la bande de Gaza d'implication dans Egypte. Il a ajouté qu'un autre point qui inquiète les autorités,
sponsable de cette attaque, la troisième dans le Sinaï en deux le triple attentat de Dahab, commis en avril par trois kamikazes c'est le radicalisme de ces groupes islamistes extrémistes qui,
Le pape Benoît XVI a entamé jeudi ans. Selon ce communiqué, deux membres de ce groupe sont égyptiens. Le ministre de l'Interieur, Habib Al Adli, a déclaré que font de nouveau leur apparition, iraient jusqu'à risquer leur vie.
en Pologne un voyage de quatre jours parvenus à entrer dans les territoires palestiniens et à établir les auteurs des explosions mortelles à Dahab, au Sinaï, avaient L'Egypte, a expliqué Diaa Rachwan, comme le reste du monde
en forme d'hommage à son préd- des contacts avec des Palestiniens fondamentalistes. Le mini- été entraînés par des activistes palestiniens dans la bande de arabe, est confrontée à la multiplication des clones d'Al Qaïda,
écesseur polonais Jean Paul II, qui, stre de l'Intérieur a soupçonné ces intermédiaires d'avoir ap- Gaza. qui partagent les mêmes objectifs et copient ses modes opér-
un an après sa mort, est révéré porté une aide financière et logistique aux terroristes. atoires, mais qui n'ont pas de liens directs avec le réseau de
comme un saint dans son pays natal. Danger du fondamentalisme Ben Laden.1
Réseau d'Al Qaïda Le ministre Al Adli a indiqué, dans un communiqué que Nas-
Ramallah: Des experts en sécurité ont soupçonné la présence de cel- ser Khamis Al Malahi, soupçonné être derrière les attaques, av- Risque assume
Le président de l'Autorité pa- lules liées au réseau terroriste d'Al Qaïda dans la bande de ait envoyé trois kamikazes dans la bande de Gaza pour re- Malgré les attentats répétés, les villes du Sinaï restent bien
lestinienne Mahmoud Abbas a ac- Gaza, mais les responsables israéliens et palestiniens n'ont cevoir des entraînements sur les armes et les explosifs. fréquentées par les touristes. Selon les analyses de l'Organ-
cordé jeudi un délai de dix jours au rien dit. Diaa Rachwan, spécialiste de l'islamisme armé au cen- Le communiqué a également mentionné le nom d'un im- isation mondiale du tourisme (OMT), les voyageurs devraient
Hamas pour s'entendre sur un pro- tre d'études politiques et stratégiques d'Al Ahram, a explique portant suspect, Tamer Nusseirat, qui aurait été placé en garde continuer de s'y rendre, L'expérience prouve que les répercus-
gramme politique avec le Fatah, faute que ces terroristes ne visent plus les touristes dans le but de à vue en Egypte. Le ministre de l'Intérieur a affirmé qu'il s'agit sions du terrorisme sont assez limitées et de courte durée. Les
de quoi il organisera un référendum déstabiliser l'Etat mais parce qu'ils les considèrent comme des des membres du groupe Al Tawhid wal Jihad, tenu pour re- voyageurs ont, en général, assumé le risque.
sur une initiative de sortie de crise.
Irak: Participation Egyptienne
L'ancien vice-Premier ministre Tarek
Aziz s'est employé à défendre mer-
Pour la quatrième année consécutive, La Baule accueille la Confér-
La Baule 2006: ence Mondiale des Investissements (World Investment Conference). Cette
Mahmoud Mohi Eddine, ministre de l'Investissement dirigera la délégation
égyptienne à la quatrième conférence de la Baule, avec une participation de
credi le président déchu Saddam Ziad Bahaa Eddine président du GAFI. Hassan Benham, directeur du bu-
Hussein et deux de ses coaccusés Un rendez- Conférence constitue le rendez-vous majeur des investisseurs inter-
nationaux et des agences européennes de promotion de l'investissement.
reau de presse régional UbiFrance et AFII, a déclaré que la conférence in-
dans l'affaire de l'assassinat de vil- vite chaque année deux pays membres de l'Union Européenne pour leurs
lageois chiites, en témoignant en leur vous des Un séminaire euro-mediterranéen aura lieu le mardi 6 juin après-midi. Il
sera suivi les 7 - 8 juin 2006 par la conférence dont le thème est "l'Europe,
performance exceptionnelles, un pays non européen pour analyser les pol-
faveur devant le Haut tribunal pénal itiques d'attraction appliquées dans d'autres régions du monde, et un pays
irakien. investisseurs une passerelle pour relier le monde". Le programme de l'édition 2006 re-
posera sur trois grands piliers stratégiques que sont "Donner l'Energie au
méditerranéen impliqué dans le processus de Barcelone, en l'occurrence
l'Egypte. Pour 2006, l'Egypte est le choix des organisateurs, est porté sur la
Téhéran: internationaux monde", "Mettre en réseau les infrastructures de la croissance", et "Définir
un nouveau modèle social".
Russie, le Royaume Uni, et la Hongrie.
L'Actualité extrémistes islamistes, et forces de l'Al-
liance pour la restauration de la paix et
Les troupes australiennes dé-
barquent au Timor oriental
de Dili», a annoncé au Parlement le Pre-
mier ministre australien John Howard.
contre le terrorisme (ARPCT). Des échanges de tirs se sont déroulés
dans la Presse Les combats ont gagné jeudi le sud de la Le petit Etat, indépendant depuis quatre jeudi en plein centre de la capitale Dili,
capitale somalienne, alors que jusqu'ici, le ans, est en proie à des affrontements ar- non loin du Palais du gouvernement et en
Française quartier de Sisi, dans le nord de la ville, ét-
ait l'épicentre des affrontements meur-
més opposant ses soldats à des militaires bord de mer. Ces violences ont forcé de
nombreux habitants à fuir leur maison et à
déserteurs o Impuissant à rétablir l'ordre, il
triers. Désormais, les combats - dans les- a été contraint de faire appel à des troupes se réfugier dans des bâtiments jugés plus
quels les miliciens des deux camps étrangères o sûrs comme des hôtels.
Les grandes puissances, malgré
utilisent de l'artillerie, des mortiers et des Un premier contingent de militaires aus- Entre un tiers et la moitié des forces ar-
des "progrès", n'ont pas réussi à fin-
mitrailleuses lourdes - se déroulent dans traliens est arrivé jeudi au Timor oriental en mées timoraises ont récemment déserté et
aliser des propositions pour con-
quatre quartiers résidentiels du nord et du proie à des affrontements armés opposant ont ensuite été révoquées. Ces deux der-
vaincre l'Iran de renoncer à son pro-
sud de Mogadiscio. ses soldats à des militaires déserteurs. Le niers jours, des affrontements ont opposé
gramme nucléaire controversé, mais
petit Etat, indépendant depuis quatre ans, ces soldats rebelles à des militaires loyaux
selon l'AIEA, Téhéran est prêt à des
impuissant à rétablir l'ordre sur son sol, a au pouvoir. Ces violences ont fait une di-
concessions dans le cadre d'un ac-
cord général avec l'Occident.
Jacques Chirac vante la France été contraint de faire appel à des troupes zaine de morts depuis le 28 avril et plu-
face aux déclinologues étrangères. sieurs dizaines de blessés. En plus de
Les deux avions venant de Darwin avai- l'Australie, le Portugal (l'ancienne puis-
Paris: sance coloniale) et la Malaisie ont offert
Jacques Chirac a ironisé jeudi à Brasilia ent à leur bord un total de cent militaires.
Mille ballons ont été lâchés jeudi d'envoyer des troupes au Timor oriental
sur "le culte du misérabilisme" en France, «Ces forces australiennes seront chargées
après-midi à Paris, sur le Champ de (Timor-Leste). Canberra a indiqué pouvoir
"où l'on chagrine, où l'on rechigne", une d'assurer dès leur arrivée un périmètre de
Mars au pied de la Tour Eiffel, pour Somalie: combats acharnés à dépêcher au total de 1.000 à 1.300 sol-
propension que le chef de l'Etat juge "dé- sécurité autour de l'aéroport international
marquer la Journée internationale des dats, trois navires de guerre, des hél-
enfants disparus moins d'un mois
Mogadiscio, au moins 30 morts connectée par rapport aux réalités".
et 72 blessés "Je sais que nous sommes dans une icoptères et des transports de
après le meurtre en France de deux troupes.
période où l'on chagrine, où l'on re-
d'entre eux. Canberra avait déjà pris la tête,
Des combats acharnés, qui ont fait au chigne - cela fait partie de notre génie
moins 30 tués et 72 blessés, opposaient national. Je ne vais pas critiquer car je il y a sept ans, d'une force inter-
Cannes: ne critique jamais ce qui est national, nationale déployée au Timor
jeudi à Mogadiscio les milices des tri-
bunaux islamiques et une alliance de mais je constate à quel point c'est dé- oriental après les atrocités
chefs de guerre soutenue par les Etats- connecté par rapport aux réalités", a-t-il qu'avaient commises les milices
Unis, qui se disputent le contrôle de la déclaré à l'occasion d'une rencontre soutenues par l'armée in-
capitale somalienne depuis février. avec des chefs d'entreprises et des rep- donésienne. Plus de 1.400 Tim-
Un précédent bilan faisait état de 20 résentants des milieux économiques orais avaient été massacrés et
morts et 55 blessés. français implantés au Brésil. près de 80% des infrastructures
François Fall, représentant spécial pour "Je n'ai pas le culte du misérabilisme du territoire avaient été détruites
la Somalie du secrétaire général des Na- et je reconnais l'excellence de ce que en par les milices pro-
tions unies, Kofi Annan, a "condamné la vous faites, je vous en félicite et vous en indonésiennes, après qu'une éc-
reprise des hostilités à Mogadiscio". suis très reconnaissant", a lancé le chef rasante majorité des habitants
"J'appelle toutes les parties à cesser les de l'Etat aux entrepreneurs présents. eut voté par référendum pour l'in-
combats immédiatement et sans condition "On a tout lieu d'être fiers de ce qu'on dépendance. Les Timorais re-
et à respecter les besoins de la popula- fait, de ce que font les entreprises stent traumatisés par les exac-
tion", affirme-t-il jeudi dans un com- françaises, de nos initiatives, de notre tions subies pendant les 24
Présence égyptienne au festival du participation au développement et années (1975-1999) d'occupation
muniqué.
film de cannes le film égyptien donc à la lutte contre la pauvreté", a in- indonésienne. Les récentes vi-
Après plus d'une semaine d'accalmie,
"Halim", présenté en première mon- sisté le chef de l'Etat, qui a salué les olences ont conduit des dizaines
les combats à l'arme lourde avaient repris
diale à Cannes, a tous les ingrédients actions communes à la France et au de milliers d'entre eux à chercher
mercredi à Mogadiscio entre milices des
du mélodrame: chanteur adulé dans Brésil dans le domaine du refuge dans les églises ou les
tribunaux, soupçonnés par les services de
le monde arabe et décédé prématuré- développement. montagnes.
renseignements occidentaux d'abriter des
ment, Abdel Hhalim Hafez a été inter- L'EXPRES
prété par l'acteur vedette Ahmed Zaki,
dont le destin tragique a rejoint celui
de son personnage. tarif d’abonnement: Egypte:50 L.E - Pays arabes: 150 L.E - L’europe: 70 dollars ou 420 L.E - L’amérique: 90 dollars ou 480 L.E - L’australie: 100 dollars américain ou 540 L.E
20.
28 May 2006 Watani International 3
Turkey’s Veiled Threats to Democracy After the Book, Comes the Movie
Turks got a nasty jolt last week when an Islamist would be opposed by the military. Turkey’s last
gunman shot at five judges in Ankara, killing one Islamist government was deposed by the generals
of them. The motive was apparently that they had in 1997. Mr Erdogan made matters worse by ab- ‘Da Vinci Code’ Enters Yawning
upheld a judgment banning the headscarf for senting himself from the funeral of the dead judge.
women. Such is the raw emotive power of this enormous albino with long white hair.” back, in desaturated color, to traumatic events in
A.O. Scott Such language - note the exquisite “almost” and the childhoods of various characters.
issue in the world’s first Muslim democracy that The headscarf ban is not without problems; one
the attack has been billed in the Turkish media as is the way it excludes women from higher educa- the fastidious tucking of the “which” after the There are also glances further back into history,
It seems you can’t open a movie these days with- preposition - can only live on the page. To be fair, to Constantine’s conversion, to the suppression of
the country’s equivalent of 9/11 - a brutal assault tion at home, forcing the few who can afford it to
out provoking some kind of culture war skirmish, though, Goldsman conjures up some pretty ripe the Knights Templar and to that time in London
on the secular and democratic foundations of the study abroad. Another issue familiar from France’s
at least in the conflict-hungry media. Recent his- lines of dialogue all on his own. “Your God does when people walked around wearing powdered
republic. Tens of thousands protested in defence debate about the subject is that it can contribute to
tory - “The Passion of the Christ,” “The Chroni- not forgive murderers,” hisses Audrey Tautou to wigs.
of those values, many marching to Ataturk’s mau- the radicalisation of Islamists of both sexes: that
cles of Narnia” - suggests that such controversy, Paul Bettany (who plays a less than enormous, Through it all, Hanks and Tautou stand around
soleum to underline what was at stake. is a matter for the democratically elected Turkish
especially if religion is involved, can be very good short- haired albino). “He burns them!” looking puzzled, leaving their reservoirs of charm
Tensions between religious and secular Turks government.
business. Theology aside, this remark can serve as a re- scrupulously untapped. Hanks twists his mouth in
are getting worse. The ban on headscarves (and Turkey’s official secular identity is one of the
“The Da Vinci Code,” Ron Howard’s film of minder that “The Da Vinci Code” is, above all, a what appears to be an expression of professorial
robes and beards) in universities, government of- reasons it is a candidate for EU membership,
Dan Brown’s best-selling primer on how not to murder mystery. And as such, once it gets going, skepticism and otherwise coasts on his easy, sub-
fices and public places is an article of faith for though other important freedoms will need to be
write an English sentence, arrives trailing more Howard’s movie has its pleasures. He and dued geniality. Tautou, determined to ensure that
secularists. But the decision by the country’s ad- bolstered if it is to eventually join the club. Euro-
than its share of theological and historical dispu- Goldsman have deftly rearranged some elements her name will never again come up in an Internet
ministrative court (denying promotion to a school peans will have to overcome their prejudices too.
tation. The arguments about the movie and the of the plot (I’m going to be careful here not to search for the word “gamine,” affects a look of
headmistress who wore the scarf outside work) Turkey’s combination of Muslim faith and plural-
book that inspired it have not been going on for spoil anything), unkinking a few over-elaborate worried fatigue.
angered religious conservatives disappointed by ist democracy should be a beacon to neighbour-
millennia - it only feels that way - but part of the twists and introducing others that keep the action Despite some talk (a good deal less than in the
the failure of the ruling Justice and Development ing regimes such as Iran, Iraq and Syria. Mr
ingenious marketing strategy of Columbia Pic- moving along. Hans Zimmer’s appropriately over- book) about the divine feminine, chalices and
party to champion their cause. The prime minister Erdogan needs to ensure it carries on working well.
tures has been to encourage months of debate and wrought score, pop- romantic with some liturgical blades, and the spiritual power of sexual connec-
and party leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, once At the moment there are worrying signs of a coun-
speculation while not allowing anyone to see the decoration, glides us through scenes that might tion, not even a glimmer of eroticism flickers be-
served a prison sentence for reading an anti-secu- try that is ill at ease with itself and with the Euro-
picture until the very last minute. otherwise be talky and inert. The movie does, how- tween the two stars. Perhaps it’s just as well. When
lar poem. His wife wears the headscarf and is not pean club to which it has so long sought admis-
Thus we have had a flood of think pieces on ever, take a while to accelerate as it tries to estab- a cryptographer and a symbologist get together, it
invited to state functions. He would like the ban sion.
everything from Jesus and Mary Magdalene’s lish who is who, what they’re doing and why. usually ends in tears.
overturned but has done little about it (though he ______________________
prenuptial agreement to the secret recipes of Opus Briefly stated: An old man (Jean- Pierre Marielle) But thank the deity of your choice for Ian
has tried to restrict alcohol consumption and ease The Guardian, editorial
Dei, and vexed, urgent questions have been raised. is killed after hours in the Louvre, shot in the stom- McKellen, who shows up just in time to give “The
restrictions on religious education) because it
Is Christianity a conspiracy? Is “The Da Vinci ach, almost inconceivably, by a hooded assailant. Da Vinci Code” a jolt of mischievous life. He plays
Code” a dangerous, anti- Christian hoax? What’s Meanwhile, Robert Langdon (Hanks), a professor a wealthy and eccentric British scholar named
Libya and Iran up with Tom Hanks’s hair?
Luckily I lack the learning to address the first
of religious symbology at Harvard, is delivering a Leigh Teabing. (I will give Brown this much: He’s
lecture and signing books for fans. He is summoned good at names. If I ever have twins or French poo-
The United States is restoring full diplomatic re- things when it is willing to sign off on repressive two questions. As for the third, well, it’s long, and to the crime scene by Bezu Fache (Jean Reno), a dles, I’m calling them Bezu and Teabing for sure.)
lations with Libya, and the timing is not coinci- regimes, only because they stop doing what they so is the movie. “The Da Vinci Code” is one of policeman who seems very grouchy, perhaps be- Hobbling around on two canes, growling at his
dental. In case anyone missed it, Secretary of State shouldn’t have done in the first place? the few screen versions of a book that may take cause his department has cut back on its shaving manservant, Remy (Jean-Yves Berteloot), Teabing
Condoleezza Rice has spelled out the connection As an Egyptian analyst put it, “It’s self-evident, longer to watch than to read. (Howard accom- cream budget. is twinkly and avuncular one moment, barking
between this former rogue and the current axis of that there is a retreat from democracy and that in plished a similar feat with “How the Grinch Stole Soon Langdon is joined by Sophie Neveu mad the next. McKellen, rattling on about Italian
evil. the current atmosphere, the United States is align- Christmas” a few years back.) (Tautou), a police cryptologist and also - Bezu paintings and medieval statues, seems to be hav-
The decision to send a US ambassador to Tripoli ing itself with non-democratic regimes. Democ- To their credit, the director and his screenwriter, Fache! - the murder victim’s granddaughter. ing the time of his life, and his high spirits serve
demonstrates the “tangible results that flow from racy is not going to be the point of departure for Akiva Goldsman (who collaborated with Howard Grandpa, it seems, knew some very important se- as something of a rebuke to the filmmakers, who
the historic decisions taken by Libya’s leadership relations between the US and governments in the on “Cinderella Man” and “A Beautiful Mind”), crets, which if they were ever revealed might shake should be having and providing a lot more fun.
in 2003 to renounce terrorism and abandon its region.” have streamlined Brown’s story and refrained the foundations of Christianity, in particular the Teabing, who strolls out of English detective fic-
weapons of mass destruction programs... Libya is According to the monitoring group Freedom from trying to capture his, um, prose style. “Al- Roman Catholic Church, one of whose bishops, tion by way of a Tintin book, is a marvelously
an important model as nations around the world House, Libya remains “one of the world’s most most inconceivably, the gun into which she was the portly Aringarosa (Alfred Molina), is at this absurd creature, and McKellen, in the best tradi-
press for changes in behavior by the Iranian and closed and repressive societies. Freedom of speech now staring was clutched in the pale hand of an very moment flying on an airplane. Meanwhile, tion of British actors slumming and hamming
North Korean regimes,” Rice said. is nonexistent... the penal code stipulates life im- an albino monk, whose through American movies, gives a performance
The message is simple: Come out with your prisonment or the death penalty for those convicted name is Silas and who may in which high conviction is indistinguishable from
hands up, give up your weapons (both terrorism of disseminating information that... ‘tarnishes Lib- be the first character in the high camp. A little more of this - a more acute
and nukes), and the world will leave you alone. ya’s image abroad.’” history of motion pictures sense of its own ridiculousness - would have given
This model, at first glance, makes much sense. So how can the West reconcile its principles to speak Latin into a “The Da Vinci Code” some of the lightness of an
Why, after all, do rogue states back terrorism and when it seems to be granting immunity to ex- cellphone, flagellates him- old-fashioned, jet-setting Euro-thriller.
seek weapons of mass destruction in the first rogues that remain brutal dictators? The answer, self, smashes the floor of a But of course, movies of that ilk rarely deal with
place? While Iran may be a special case in that it it seems, is a two-tiered system: actively promote church and kills a nun. issues like the divinity of Christ or the search for
aspires to export its ideology, countries like Libya popular regime change in the case of rogue dicta- A chase, as Bezu’s the Holy Grail. In the cinema, such matters are
and North Korea used aggression to safeguard their torships, while pushing a less aggressive - but real American colleagues might best left to Monty Python. In any case, Howard
regimes by intimidating their neighbors and ex- - democracy agenda in non-aggressive dictator- put it, ensues. It skids and Goldsman handle the supposedly provocative
tracting financial support. ships. through the night streets of material in Brown’s book with kid gloves, settling
In 2003, just weeks after Saddam Hussein was Rogues like Iran should know that the price of Paris and eventually to on an utterly safe set of conclusions about faith
seen worldwide having his teeth ignominiously their behavior is not just the pursuit of economic London the next morning, and its history, presented with the usual dull sen-
checked by an American medic, Muammar and other sanctions, but active Western support by way of a Roman castle tentiousness. So I certainly can’t support any calls
Qaddafi decided he too had had enough. Libya’s for dissidents, highlighting of their dismal human and a château in the French for boycotting or protesting this busy, trivial, in-
leader no doubt reasoned: Why continue to suffer rights record and open support for the people countryside. Along the offensive film. Which is not to say I’m recom-
from sanctions and perhaps become the next against their oppressors. If a dictatorship, like way, the film pauses to ad- mending you go see it.
American target when I can, just by giving up ter- Libya, ceases to threaten its neighbors, then the mire various knickknacks ___________________
rorism and nukes, obtain immunity for my regime? West would take a less active, longer term ap- and artworks, and to flash The New York Times
Libya shows that the same rogue behavior that, proach of speaking out in favor of human rights
in the pre-9/11 world, had been an asset toward and political reforms, while showing acceptance
regime maintenance could be turned into a liabil-
ity that was worth giving up. Europe is now putting
of a more gradual rate of change.
There should be no illusions, however, regard-
‘Da Vinci’ Disaster
together an incentive package for Iran that is pre- ing what it would take to fully apply the Libya «It was really disappointing. The dialogue was the film’s remainder.
Leo Standora cheesy. The acting wasn’t too bad, but the film is Some people walked out during the movie’s
sumably built on this same thinking; if the alter- model in the case of Iran. If it is to have any chance
native is enticing enough, perhaps rogue states can at all, the stick side of the equation must be dra- not as good as the book,» chimed in Lina closing minutes, and while credits rolled, there
«The Da Vinci Code,» this year’s most hotly
be induced to dramatically change their behavior. matically amplified on all fronts: sanctions, pro- Hamchaoui, from British radio IRN. «Nothing were a few whistles and hisses - but none of the
anticipated flick, failed to catch fire with critics
When dealing with rogues, however, carrots motion of popular regime change and advancing really works. It’s not suspenseful. It’s not romantic. scattered applause even bad movies sometimes
at the Cannes Film Festival, its world premiere.
don’t work without very big sticks. In the Libyan the option of military force against nuclear facili- It’s certainly not fun,» according to Stephen receive at Cannes. Still, Fox News movie reviewer
Most offered only lukewarm praise or shrugs of
case the international community had used big ties. The collective weight of such measures will Schaefer of the Boston Herald. Roger Friedman said the movie was mostly
indifference. Others laughed or jeered at parts of
sticks, in the form of tough, mandatory economic be measured, in part, by whether the Iranian re- The Cannes audience of critics - arguably the «enticing» and predicted McKellen nailed himself
the nearly 2-1/2-hour thriller and dumped on star
and diplomatic sanctions for a long time before gime continues to act as if time is on its side. toughest in the world - clearly grew restless as the an Oscar nomination for his performance.
Tom Hanks’ performance as well as what they
they bore fruit. ________________________ movie dragged on to a long sequence of The Times of London also called Paul Bettany
called a potboiler script.
Then there is the issue of freedom and democ- The Jerusalem Post, editorial anticlimactic revelations. «I kept thinking of the «an absolute peach» for his portrayal of the albino
The movie is based on Dan Brown’s monster
racy. How can the West proclaim it is for these Energizer Bunny, because it kept going and going monk, Silas. He chases Hanks and co-star Audrey
best-selling novel about a coverup of secrets
and going, and not in a good way,» said James Tautou «across Europe with a gun in one hand,
surrounding Christianity’s roots.
Rocchi, a film critic for CBS 5 television in San and a whip to flagellate himself in private in the
Variety, the movie industry’s magazine, called
Nuggets the film « a stodgy, grim thing» in a review. Peter
Francisco.
One especially melodramatic line uttered by
other. I’ve rarely seen an actor have more fun,»
The Times reviewer said.
Brunette, critic for The Boston Globe, described
the idea was slapped across the face by his new Hanks drew prolonged laughter and some catcalls, ____________________________
Laila Farid Hanks as «a zombie» but praised co-star Ian
boss and sacked. and the audience continued to titter for much of New York Daily News (abridged)
McKellen.
Nurse Hussain won promotion simply because
his father was appointed to a senior position in
♦ Union of Russian
Orthodox Church
Moqtada al-Sadr’s head office.
The same is happening in schools and colleges,
Conspiracy Theories Have No Limits
The Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, the Civil Service and government ministries as
based in New York, cut ties with the church in professor Harold Bloom, a sometime contributor Debussy and Victor Hugo. The Catholic Church
Baghdad’s middle classes are sacked to make way Daniel Henninger to this page, who remarks that the book’s first Say- is covering all this up.”
Moscow in 1927, denouncing it as a tool of the for militia apparatchiks.
state, and mutual suspicions have endured long ing “is not by Jesus but by his twin.” Then Dan Brown said softly, “Would anyone buy
For many professionals this assault on their live- “The Da Vinci Code” would not be the subject of The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, pre- into a plot so preposterous and fantastic?” Then
after the Soviet collapse. lihoods and expertise is the final straw, and they
But this week, the Church Outside Russia ap- this column had it not sold 60.5 million copies, paring for the opening of Tom Hanks and Ron he started writing.
are leaving Baghdad in droves. according to its publisher Doubleday. Of course Howard’s movie, has created a “Da Vinci Code” The real accomplishment of “The Da Vinci
proved a resolution to reunify with Moscow.
Patriarch Alexiy has taken steps to heal the rift this does not make it the best-selling book of all Web site addressing such issues as “The Witch Code” is that Dan Brown has proven that the theory
in recent years, apologising for transgressions in ♦ Saddam The Poet Ready for time. That title, as irony would have it, goes to Killing Frenzies.” A spokesman for the bishops, of conspiracy theories is totally elastic, it has no
Soviet times and resolving some theological and Hangman the Bible, half of which one of Dan Brown’s char- in a nice touch of self-confident understatement, limits. The genre’s future is limitless, with the fol-
political differences. “I am ready to die, I am not scared of execution.” acters dismisses as “false.” said the bishops would be concerned “if only one lowing obvious plots:
The Church Outside Russia, however has been Saddam, who refuses all visits from his family, Like the Bible but unlike Mr. Brown’s novel, person” came away from “The Da Vinci Code” Bill Clinton is directly descended from Henry
criticising Patriarch Alexiy for being too close to was talk- most of the books in the sales Pantheon have had confused about the church. OK, maybe three or VIII; Hillary is his third cousin. Jack Ruby was
President Putin, who cultivates a pious image de- ing to utilitarian staying power - McGuffey’s Reader, the four did. Ronald Reagan’s half-brother. Dick Cheney has
spite his atheist KGB background. Bushra Guinness Book of Records, Noah Webster’s “The During my own long, hard slog through “The been dead for five years; the vice president is a
Khalil, a American Spelling Book,” Dr. Spock’s baby book Da Vinci Code” lectures on the sacred feminine clone created by Halliburton in 1998. The Laffer
Lebanese and the World Almanac. Now comes “The Da and the pagan roots of iambic pentameter, I most Curve is the secret sign of the Carlyle Group.
♦ Middle East Deadly Sport Vinci Code.”
lawyer appreciated how Dan Brown, his own authorial Michael Moore is the founder of the Carlyle
Throughout the Middle East a heady mix of high who is now Still, it boggles the mind, and the struggling soul, eyebrow raised, slyly slips in a wink-wink sen- Group, which started World War I. The New York
incomes, youthful boredom and a plentiful sup- the only that “The Da Vinci Code” has sold 60.5 million tence lest people think he really is nuts. Times is secretly run by the Rosicrucians (this is
ply of high-performance cars have made illegal woman he copies in 45 languages. Sales in the U.S. are 21.7 Chapter 40: “Everyone loves a conspiracy.” revealed on the first page of Chapter 47 of “The
road racing the latest craze. meets. million, in the U.K. nine million, more than 4.7 (Italics, needless to say, Mr. Brown’s.) Da Vinci Code” if you look at the 23rd line through
The180mph road racers often cause carnage. In their million each in France and Japan, 3.6 million in Chapter 48: “It was all interconnected.” a kaleidoscope). Jacques Chirac is descended from
Saudi Arabia is one of the most dangerous places meetings, Germany, 1.2 million in China and, no surprise, Chapter 55, after Prof. Teabing’s arcane summary Judas.
on earth to drive with an annual death toll of 4,500 Saddam 143,000 in Romania. of eighty gospels (Mr. Brown’s italic): “Sophie’s None of this strikes me as the least bit implausi-
on the roads. The Wall Street Journal reported that often pre- A righteous army has formed to prove every- head was spinning. ‘And all of this relates to the ble, especially the latter. I’d better get started.
in Egypt a race between local drivers and youths fers to talk thing Dan Brown says about the early Christian Holy Grail?’” My thoughts exactly, Sophie. ______________________________
from the Gulf left half a dozen people dead last to her church is false, which it most certainly is. Mr. But the final clue to the hoax arrives in Chapter The Wall Street Journal (abridged)
year. about po- Brown’s history pales against the real story of 60: “Langdon held up his Mickey Mouse watch
etry rather Christianity’s first centuries. I recommend two and told her that Walt Disney had made it his quiet
♦ Exodus of The Iraqi Middle than the gems: Henry Chadwick’s “The Early Church” life’s work to pass on the Grail story to future
Class minutiae (Penguin) and Peter Brown’s “The Rise of West- generations.” I’ll bet that line isn’t in the movie.
Colleagues were astonished when Hussain, a nurse of the de- ern Christendom” (Blackwell). Grand, thrilling Here’s my theory of “The Da Vinci Code.” Dan
at a Baghdad Hospital, turned up for work with a fence case. drama. Brown was sitting one night at the monthly meet-
pistol strapped around his waist and announced __________________________________ But markets don’t lie. Clearly Mr. Brown knows ing of his local secret society, listening to a lec-
that he was now in charge. A doctor who ridiculed Sources: The Times and The Independent something that is true. What is it? ture on the 65th gospel, and he got to thinking: “I
To answer the mystery of Dan Brown’s unholy wonder if there’s any limit to what people are will-
tale, I visited the church-like quiet of Barnes & ing to believe these days about a conspiracy
Noble on Manhattan’s Sixth Avenue and asked theory. Let’s say I wrote a book that said Jesus
an attendant where the book was. He arched his was married. To Mary Magdalene. Who was preg-
brow—as Mr. Brown’s characters tend to do every nant at the Crucifixion. And she is the Holy Grail.
few paragraphs—and whispered, “The Da Vinci Jesus wanted her to run the church as a global
table is over there.” sex society called Heiros Gamos, but Peter el-
The table held many treasures. I discovered the bowed her out of the job. Her daughter was the
polymathic physician Sherwin B. Nuland’s beginning of the Merovingian dynasty of France.
“Leonardo da Vinci,” a delightful Penguin biog- Jesus’ family is still alive. There were 80 gos-
raphy that has nothing to do with Mr. Brown’s pels, not four. Leonardo DiCaprio, I mean da
book. Checking that no one who knew me was Vinci, knew all this. The ‘Mona Lisa’ is
nearby, I opened “The Gospel of Thomas: The Leonardo’s painting of himself in drag. Da Vinci’s
Hidden Sayings of Jesus” because its cover prom- secret was kept alive by future members of ‘the
ised an “Interpretation” by the eminent English brotherhood,’ including Isaac Newton, Claude
21.
2 Watani International 28 May 2006
4 Watani International 28 May 2006
Pope Shenouda III
Sanaa’ Younis (1942 – 2006)
Blood and Fire (6)
The sin offering
A comedienne like no other
& the trespass
offering
Translated by: Dr Wedad Abbas Mary Ramsis
For depth of feeling and heart- her and playing leading roles.
"The Trespass offering is like the sin of meeting which remains among them in felt expression, comedienne She is the frustrated, agonised
offering; there is one law for them." the midst of their uncleanness...that he
(Lev7: 7) may make atonement for himslef, for his Sanaa’ Younis had no equal. Her woman who plays the leading
The difference is that the sin offering is household, and for all the assembly of Is- true-to-life acting brought her role better than the leading lady,
offered for the voluntary sins, whereas the rael." (Lev16: 3-17) close to spectators’ hearts; for but is never given the oppor-
trespass offering is for the involuntary sins The sin offering can be explained as many she might as well have tunity to do so.
which are committed unintentionally or in "an innocent bears the sin of a guilty been the ‘woman next door’. As Younis also played some mem-
ignorance. We notice here that ignorance person". the naïve, ignorant wife in the orable roles in cinema. Diector
or lack of intention does not make a cer- The animal which is killed though in- 1980s TV comedy The Wife is the Youssef Chahine picked her up
tain sin not sinful; for God’s command- nocent, with no sin, is most holy. But, hav- Last to Know, her words and to play the mother whose son be-
ment has been violated, no matter in- ing the sins and the uncleanness on it, is a expressions became standard comes a religious fanatic in
tentionally or unintentionally. Therefore symbol of uncleanness only from this as- Egyptian street language for a al-Masseer (The Destiny), and in
an atonement should be offered. pect. Therefore, although it is killed in the long time. And as the over- 11 September she is the mother
What is the difference between the place where the burnt offering is killed, it protected daughter of the widow- of a Palestinian freedom fighter.
burnt offering, on one side, and the is burnt outside the camp so that it may er Fouad al-Mohandis—Egypt’s
sin and the trespass offerings on the not defile the place.
other side? top comedian in the 1970s and Dot com
On the Day of Atonement, the high 80s—in Lock up Your Girls, she
As we have mentioned before, both the priest who killed the sin offering washes Altogether, Younis played in
burnt offering and the grain offering were portrays to perfection the confu- some 25 plays, 40 films, and 30
his body and his garments; and likewise sion and inability to deal with so-
to please God. So, there remains the sec- the person who burns the sin offerings and TV dramas. She also successfully
ond part of the Lord the person who takes away the scapegoat,
ciety and a future husband when hosted the talk show Sanaa’
Christ’s mission, that is, salvation of both wash their garments and wash their she is finally given the freedom to Younis dot com on the Nile TV
man through the atonement. This He per- bodies before going into the camp. do so on her own. Channel, in which she tackled a
formed by bearing man’s sins and dying The Lord Christ, in being a sin offering, variety of controversial issues.
for them. went out of the camp bearing his reproach. Daughter of the stage Younis was a very private person and successfully kept her personal life out
This is the action of the sin and trespass This is one aspect. Younis was born in the Delta province of Menoufiya in 1942. After obtaining of the headlines. Almost nothing is known of her private life.
offerings, for they are a symbol of Christ As for the work of the sin offering, it is
who died for the sins of the whole world, a degree in Sociology she took up acting in which she had excelled as a child. Last Sunday, Sanaa’ Younis breathed her last, a victim of lung cancer. She is
two-sided: death on behalf of the sinner, Lock up Your Girls was her first role on stage, and was followed by many succeeded by a brother and two sisters.
whether voluntary or involuntary sins, and and casting his sins into forgetfulness.
whether committed intentionally or in- others. In Hala, my Love she masterfully played the stern spinster in charge of Sanaa’ Younis will always be remembered. This actress who was deservedly
On the Day of Atonement, the two goats an orphanage for girls and absolutely loathed by them. And in the TV drama called the ‘daughter of the stage’ has carved for herself a niche in every
tentionally in ignorance.
It is very comforting to know that the performed the two acts. One of them was Supporting Actress she was the gifted actress whose plain looks stand between Egyptian’s heart.
Lord Christ died for our sins, even killed as a sin sacrifice representing atone-
those which we are not aware of or ment and redemption. The other provided
which we have committed un- the result of the atonement; it was sent
intentionally or in ignorance. away into the wilderness with all the sins
Don Giovanni
We shall talk about both sins as one, of the people upon it. It was left there to
since there is one law for both: die in hunger or be devoured by a beast, so
1. The rank of the person who com- that people might know that their sins
mitted sin determines the kind of sac- which they had put on the head of that an-
rifice. imal are lost with it and forgotten.
Therefore the Book of the Leviticus dis- It was called "scapegoat" because it
tinguishes between the sin of the ruler, the represents driving away sin and its con-
sin of the priest, the sin of the common sequences, and asserting that God will Nader Shukry As far as the feelings of most women are concerned, In Arabic
person, and the sin of the whole people. remember it no more (Jer31: 34). mixed emotions of love, hatred, greed and treachery Don Giovanni expresses the
Likewise the kind of sacrifice is de- The Lord Christ performed the same are not far from the surface. This matrix of conflict conflict of man, and although
termined, either a bull, a kid of a goat, or a work of the sin offering, in that He died for around the female figure has not changed since the beginning of time. Mozart himself called it a
lamb: "If he is not able to bring a lamb, us, paid off its wages, and removed our Mozart exercised great talent in depicting this conflict in his opera Don "comic drama", yet it was a
then he shall bring…two turtledoves or trespass away that none of them shall be Giovanni, which has been presented at the Cairo Opera House on the reflection of the fact that no
two pigeons: one as a sin offering and the remembered against us (Ezek18: 22). occasion of the 250th anniversary of the composer’s birth. Fourteen years wickedness passes un-
other as a burnt offering." (Lev5: 7) 5. The sin offering is not wholly offered since the last presentation of Don Giovanni in Cairo, it has been brought to
to God, because part of it is for God, to be punished.
2. God made it easy for everybody to the stage in a new Arabic translation from the Italian by Ali Sadeq. Mozart went beyond the
make a sacrifice. consumed by fire, and the other part to be
It is not confined to the rich only, but eaten by people. general classification of
the poor also can offer two turtledoves or It is for God, and for us. On one side it Heartbreaker composing in the recog-
two pigeons. Therefore, when the Lord is for God as fulfilment of the divine jus- The opera is a blend of comedy and tragedy. The story focuses on the nised opera formula of an
Christ entered the temple He drove the tice; and for us on the other side as a archetype of a young playboy who toys with the hearts of young women absolute tragedy or abso-
sellers out, overturned the tables of the salvation to us. and deceives them with sweet words of love until they fall. At that point lute comedy. The last scene
money changers, but did not overturned Therefore we eat of it. It is like the Eu- they discover they have been victims of false love and are imprisoned in an was widely discussed by
the baskets of doves (Jn2: 15, 16), be- charist Sacrifice in this respect. ephemeral world which disappears as the sun rises. critics because of the genius of the mu-
cause the doves were a symbol of the The Peace Sacrifice Don Giovanni, the Italian heartbreaker, becomes involved in a series of sic, which contrives to turn the mood of the audience from
Lord Christ, being a sin offering. And on 1. This sacrifice is a symbol of the relationships that lead to his being pursued by those seeking revenge. In terror to amusement.
His baptism the Holy Spirit descended Lord Christ as the source of peace. the final scene he is seen fleeing through the churchyard, where he hears The most difficult aspect of presenting this opera, according to its di-
upon Him like a dove, and a heavenly He pleased the Father, endured His a voice emanating from the statue on the king’s tomb and urging him to rector, Walid Aoni, was materialising this duality on stage. This great work
voice said, "This is My beloved Son, in wrath, reconciled people with Him, and es- repent his crimes or else meet his doom. As Giovanni mocks the sound, a of art was set in an Arabic context in such a way as to define the intricacy
whom I am well pleased." Probably when tablished peace between God and people. great fire emerges from the ground and engulfs him. When the avengers of the relationships and solve their hidden mysteries.
people saw the doves they remembered He also bore the punishment of sin on be-
the sin offering and the burnt offering, and finally arrive they find his servant falling on the ground and crying, The Cairo Opera House Orchestra conducted by Ivan Filev presented a
half of mankind, removed its re- "Heaven has taken revenge on you!" A sound rises, repeating, "Let people spectacular performance, as did the Cairo Opera House Choir and Sopranos
they probably understood—amidst that membrance from their minds, and im-
scene—the words of the Baptist about planted peace within their minds and
learn from the destiny of the wicked, that their lives are devoured by a Mona Rafla, Iman Mustafa, and Gihane Fayed, as well as Baritones Reda
Christ that He is "the Lamb of God who hearts. wretched death." al-Wakeel and Abdel-Wahab al-Sayed.
takes away the sin of the world." (Jn1: 29) 2. The peace sacrifice differs from all
3. The sinner puts his hand on the other sacrifices in that it is voluntary:
sacrifice and confess his sins, as a sym- It is not compulsory, like the sin offering
Dancing away
bol that the animal is offered on his be- for instance.
half (Lev5: 5). A person offers it happily and un-
In this way the sinner's sins are trans- gratefulness to God for His gifts. It is
ferred to the sacrifice which will pay off
the wages of the sins on his behalf. There-
therefore called a thanksgiving sacrifice,
i.e. Eucharist.
Modern
fore the Lord Christ, in being a sin sac- 3. In eating of it is a symbol of com-
rifice, is not Himself a sinner but a sin
bearer, and also a curse bearer. He is right-
munion between God and people. Dance Until the end of this month, the Opera houses of Cairo and Alexandria are hosting the
Its blood is shed on the altar as a symbol
eous, but He laid on Himself the iniquity
of us all (Isa53: 6).
The Book of the Leviticus therefore
that our peace is based on blood, without
which the world may live in continual Theatre Modern Dance Theatre Festival which opened early in May. Five countries are taking
part: Egypt, France, Belgium, Spain and Italy.
worry.
accurately describes the sin offering as
"most holy".
When eating of it, the best parts shall First-timers
first be offered to God (Lev3: 3, 4): This year’s festival includes several first-time performances. Belgian Thierry
"This is the law of the sin offering: In The fat that covers the entrails; the two
the place where the burnt offering is Smits’ D’Orient, is a work inspired by the Middle East and such films as Lawrence
kidneys and the fat on them; the fatty lobe of Arabia, Adieu Bonaparte, and A Thousand and One Nights. In a joint Egyptian-
killed, the sin offering shall be killed be-
fore the Lord. It is most holy...In a holy attached to the liver above the kidneys. French show, director Karine Saporta presented In the Eyes of the Night which runs
place it shall be eaten, in the court of the This means that God received His portion on a Mediterranean, Middle East theme, and in which the characters are not clearly
tabernacle of meeting. first from Christ, then we share that joy by
eating from the peace sacrifice. from the past or present. The waves of the sea play a prominent role in the show,
Everyone who touches its flesh must be expressed in swings of time and motion. The Italian shows Quadri 06 and Rush
holy...All the males among the priests In this it differs from the burnt offering,
in which the sinner only watches it while depict a sceptical view of human relationships through the dynamism and modern-
may eat it. It is most holy." (Lev6: 24-29) ism of everyday situations.
The same is stated concerning the tres- its smell rises as a sweet aroma to the Lord
till it turns into ashes, without taking any The Spanish production carried the Japanese name Yukkuri. Choreographed by
pass offering: "Likewise this is the law of Argentine Dani Pannullo, it endeavours to create an aesthetic link between the
the trespass offering (it is most holy). In part of it.
the place where they kill the burnt of- The peace sacrifice likewise is a sweet cultures of the East and the West, achieved through the universal language of the
fering they shall kill the trespass of- aroma to the Lord, but man has a share in body in its motion, desires and feelings. The encounter between two seemingly
fering...Every male among the priests may it also. opposite dances: the western urban breakdance with its impetuous acrobatic
eat it. It shall be eaten in a holy place. It is 4. Cleanness and purity were required impact and its Japanese counterpart, the introspective meditative Butoh inspire
most holy." (Lev7: 1, 2, 6) when eating of it. an unexpected, almost magical harmony.
Likeiwse, the Lord Christ in His ho- "The person who eats the flesh of the
liness in spite of being a sin offering. sacrifice of peace offering that belongs to Self expression
He laid on Himself the sins of the the Lord, while he is unclean, that person
shall be cut off from his people. Moreover
Egyptians have presented There Still Are Questions and Sound Echo.
whole world. He became a sin for us, and And for the first time, Egyptian children with hearing and speech
laid on Himself the curse instead of us. the person who touches any unclean
thing...and who eats the flesh of the sac- impairment participated in the festival. The Egyptian Deaf and Mute
But in spite of all this He is holy; whoev-
er touches Him becomes holy, and rifice of the peace offering...shall be cut Dance Theatre presented Agneha Sagheera or Little Wings directed by
whoever eats His body lives forever. In off from his people." (Lev7: 20, 21) Reda Abdel-Aziz. The show is part of a movement which aims at merging
His bearing the sins and the punishment The Lord Christ came to offer peace children with special needs into mainstream society, and helping them emerge from their iso-
He is still holy. He is perfect while being to the world, but only those repenting lation through dance as a means of self-expression.
a sin offering as He is perfect while be- shall enjoy this peace.
ing a burnt offering. But those who continue in their un-
4. The effectiveness of the sin offering cleanness there will have no peace, for
is completely evident, in detail, in the the Lord says there is no peace for the
Day of Atonement.
In chapter (16) of the Book of Levit-
wicked. No unclean sinner can eat of the
peace sacrifice before cleaning himself. Watani International.... Watani International.... Watani International.... Watani International....Watani International
icus we read that Aaron puts on linen However, the person who repents and
garments before going into the Holy confess his sin, and brings with the sac-
Place, then, "he shall take from the con- rifice of thanksgiving (the peace sac- Editor-in-chief Youssef Sidhom Editorial team International staff Senior editors
gregation of the children of Israel two rifice) unleavened cakes of flour and Executive editor Magdi Khalil (NY) Saad Michael Saad, (Los Angeles)
kids of the goats as a sin offering, and leavened bread, this person can eat of that Ghada Tantawi
one ram as a burnt offering...And Aaron sacrifice. This offering represents his own Cairo staff Ghali Kozman
Tel (1) 571 5226560, Fax (1) 571 5226561
E-mail: magdikh@ hotmail.com Adel Guindy (France)
shall bring the goat on which the Lord's sinful self, besides the Perfect Christ rep- Dalia Victor magdikkamel@ aol.com
lot fell, and offer it as a sin of- resenting peace.
Managing editor Samia Sidhom Fax (33) 147012600
Editing advisor William El-Miry (NY) E-mail: guindya@aol.com
fering...Then he shall kill the goat of the 5. Before killing the peace sacrifice, Donia Wagdy
sin offering, which is for the people, the offerer puts his hand on it. Copy editor Jenny Jobbins Marina Ihab Contributing editor Mahfouz Doss (LA) Laila Shafik Farid (U.K)
bring its blood inside the veil...So he This refers to his consent that the sac- Tel (1) 310 8263388, Fax (1) 310 8208480 Fax (44) 1704574356,
shall make atonement for the Holy Place, Layout editor Heba Adel Nivert Rizkallah E-mail: madoss@ worldnet.att.net E-mail: lailafarid@btopenworld.com
rifice be an evidence of his thankfulness
because of the uncleanness of the chil- (Lev7: 12), or a confession on his part that
dren of Israel...their transgressions...their he has found in that sacrifice his peace and
sins; and so he shall do for the tabernacle comfort. Virginia office: 14308 Summer Tree Road, Suite G, Centreville, VA 20121; Los Angeles office: P.O.Box 2442, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
28 May 2006
Watani International 3
22.
Watani Francophone Sunday
28 May 2006
Editor-in-chief Managing Editor 20 Bashans 1722
Youssef Sidhom Samia Sidhom 1 Gamad al-Awal1427
YEAR 6
ISSUE 276
Page 5 - 6
C
Editorial
Problems on hold
Communicate
better … Live better
onserving a monastic trove
Youssef Sidhom
Amid our efforts to spread a citizenship rights culture
among various sectors of Egyptian society, it makes us
happy to witness the spectacular effort exerted on that Sir Derek Plumbly Lady Plumbly Anba Matta’ous Father Bigoul
front by Egypt’s civil society organisations and insti-
tutions. These work hard to confirm the Egyptian
identity as opposed to the widely-propagated Arab The monasteries of Egypt are high on the nation’s of restoration to their former condition.
heritage list, according to Supreme Council of Antiquities Marina Ihab Professor Sebastian Brock of Oxford University gave a
Islamic one, and to focus on the love and brotherhood
which bind the sons and daughters of Egypt regardless (SCA) secretary-general Zahi Hawass. presentation in which he revealed that only two monasteries
of colour, religion or gender. We are also glad to note The first Christian monasteries were founded in the the historic manuscripts. in the world—St Catherine’s in Sinai and Deir al-Surian
that, instead of the usual ornamented rhetoric which Egyptian desert in the third century, and Wadi Natroun, The British Embassy in Cairo hosted an event on 16 May —have preserved the oldest known fragments of papyrus
serves to obscure realities, candour and transparency which lies on the fringe of the Western Desert mid-way to which were invited trustees from the United Kingdom as manuscripts in Syriac, a branch of Aramaic, the language
now increasingly govern the discourse on citizenship between Cairo and Alexandria, soon became the major well as volunteers dedicated to making a success of the Jesus spoke.
rights issues. Needless to say, this is the only way to Coptic monastic centre. Deir al-Surian (Syrian Monastery) project. Zahi Hawwas expressed his delight at the British
detect our ailments and work to cure them. was built in the sixth century and was for a long period oc- interest in conserving the manuscripts, and the educational The foundation
It is obvious that wide gaps separate different sec- cupied by Coptic, Syrian and Ethiopian monks, who left opportunities in conservation work they were offering John Beale, member of the board of the Levantine
tors of Egyptians. Muslims appear amazed and in- cherished manuscripts and one of the earliest biblical texts Egyptians. Foundation, said that the objective of the foundation was to
credulous when Copts talk of the hardships they en- by the church fathers, of which the Greek originals are now save the manuscripts that are seriously at risk by offering a
counter because of the inequality between them and lost. After 1,500 years these irreplaceable treasures are in In dire need digital photographic record of each, to facilitate access by
their Muslim fellow-citizens. Young men display their real danger of terminal deterioration. Bishop Matta’ous delivered an opening speech in which he monks, scholars and students. An electronic record of all the
unawareness of any difficulties or marginalisation outlined the history of Deir al-Surian which was originally manuscripts will be created, allowing dissemination of their
imposed on women. Even when a man or woman Volunteers named St Mary’s, but later took its name from the Syrian contents to researchers. Mr Beale said the restoration
complains of the heavy burden of making ends meet, The Levantine Foundation has set up a project to preserve monks who lived in it for nearly 800 years. At that time all process required skill, technology and cash. To help towards
the others appear to be ignorant of such matters. the important and unique collection of manuscripts of the liturgical books were written by hand, and the monks would these ends local conservators would be trained; there would
The rifts which divide people of the same homeland desert fathers housed in the monastery’s library. A start has document their contemplations or copy parts of the Bible to be three programes a year for three years; and the conserva-
must be bridged through better communication and been made on the Syrian manuscripts. With encouragement read in their private cells or use in their prayers in the church. tion programme would be supported by suitable database
common effort. Even though the State should from Pope Shenouda III, Bishop Matta’ous of Deir al- Later, once they had access to publishing and printing they no software and workshop facilities to train monks and local
shoulder the responsibility of changing discriminatory Surian, the British ambassador in Egypt, Sir Derek Plum- longer worried about copying and writing. Their manuscripts people in the various requisite techniques.
legislation and practices, it remains the duty of the bly, and Lady Plumbly, the foundation has embarked on a were stored for many decades during which they have been As far as money is concerned, the five-year programme
civil society institutions to work with the grassroots five-year-plan to conserve, catalogue, digitise and restore subjected to heat and humidity, and are therefore in dire need will cost approximately six million Egyptian pounds.
to correct discriminatory thought.
A unique place … A unique treasure
Muslims frequently wonder about what Copts claim
are discriminatory measures against building
churches. When they are told of the horrible facts,
they rush to elaborate on Islam’s tolerance regarding
freedom of belief and worship, and vehemently deny
the validity of fanatic Muslim claims that Christians
are infidels, their Holy Book fraud, and their churches
should never be built. When Copts display the figures
and statistics which prove they are regularly excluded
from leading State posts, Muslims raise their voices
in rejection of the practice. When we talk of the
fanaticism in school curricula and in the media,
Muslims blush with shame. And when we review the
problems that result from including a ‘religion’ box in
official papers, Muslims unanimously agree that this
should be abolished.
If anything, this means that better communication
and integration are necessary to shield us Egyptians Inside Egypt’s Western Desert lies the Victor Salama the manuscripts, and Abuna (Father) Bigoul is currently in charge.
against discrimination and fanaticism, and are the wilderness of Scetis, and deeper into this
only means to activate the concept of ‘citizenship’. wilderness lies Wadi Natroun (Natroun Sorry state
Better communication and integration create intimate Valley)—scene of the famous Nitrian monasticism. Father Bigoul, himself a chemist who took orders in 1988, was particularly worried
human relationships immune to hate. Better commu- An unforgettable scene greets you as you venture about the manuscripts. When a team of Dutch restorers arrived at the monastery to work
nication and integration provide the climate of candid deep into the Wadi, that of the sixth-century Deir al- on its murals, he asked for their advice on restoring the manuscripts, and was given the
disclosure necessary for solving sectarian problems Surian or the monastery of the Syrians, as it looms name of London paper conservator Elizabeth Sobczynski. Ms Sobczynski visited the
by the entire community. Better communication and from the sea of sand engulfing it. The old, thick, monastery in 1988 and was appalled at what she saw. Paper had become brittle and
integration guarantee that Copts would not stand high, uneven, mud-covered wall surrounding the suffered discoloration and mechanical damage. Parchment was damaged from mis-
alone to fight for their rights but would be supported monastery contains the narrow gate through which handling and bad environmental conditions. Iron and copper-based inks had degraded,
by Muslims, no woman would fight single-handedly you enter. You have to bow your head down to go with many instances of ink suffering from flaking and lifting. Exposure to moisture had
for equality but be supported by men, and that no one through; it is a reminder of Christ’s words: "Enter resulted in corrosion and caused very serious perforations to parchment and paper. Silver-
would contest a curtailed right all alone. through the narrow gate …" to find the way to Life. fish, mice and other pests had caused further damage.
So, in order to revive our sense of Egyptian identity
and uphold citizenship rights, the challenge before us Monastery of the Syrians Conservation
is to achieve better communication and integration. Originally dedicated to the Holy Virgin, the mon- Sobczynski, together with Professor Lucas van Rompay of Duke University, set up the
This calls for exposing all forms of discrimination, astery gained its denomination of the ‘Syrian mon- Deir al-Surian Conservation Project, with support from the UK’s Institute of Paper
and opening all the files of problems that have long astery’ because of the Syrian monks who—coming Conservation and the universities of Leiden, Louvain and Duke. They work closely with
been placed on hold. Muslims would then be made from the Levant to the wilderness of Scetis—lived Father Bigoul who visited the UK for two months, to gain experience by working at the
aware of situations they claim they know nothing there from the eighth to the 16th century. Royal Library at Windsor, the Wellcome Institute and the British Library. Ms Sobczynski
about and are never exposed to. A live example of The monastery is a popular destination of religious also set up the Levantine Foundation with the purpose of raising funds for the conservation
such discrimination was reported in a letter I received tourism. It contains the relics of 12 saints—including process.
from Watani reader Ramsis Raouf al-Naggar. Mr hair from St Mary Magdalene, and houses the fam-
Naggar wrote: ous 10th-century wooden ‘Door of Symbols’ which The Gospel of St John
"You have written repeatedly of the data entry errors reportedly contains, within its intricately engraved Father Bigoul said that the library contains some 2000 Coptic, Arabic, Syriac, Greek and
committed by Civil Register clerks in the process of cross symbols, a forecast of the Church’s history Ethiopian manuscripts which date back from the fifth to the 17th century. The biggest of
issuing new computerised identity documents to since its foundation till the end-of-the-world. It is the collection is the Syriac. The oldest manuscript is part of a book which dates back to
Egyptians. Most common among these errors is the also the site of the cave in which Anba Bishoi 411 and chronicles the lives of martyrs. The Coptic collection constitutes more than 300
erroneous listing of Christians as Muslims. You claim —believed in the Coptic tradition to have washed the manuscripts which date back from the end of the 11th century to the 19th century. Most
that this is no conspiracy and that these are admin- feet of Christ—lived as an anchorite for some 35 important among them is the oldest complete Gospel of St John in Coptic. It is composed
istrative mistakes, but I beg to disagree. The official years, and the tamarind tree which is said to have of 134 pages of parchment, each 18.5cm long and 13.5cm wide, and includes 12 lines.
circular number 25 of Year 2003 issued by the Civil grown out of St Mar-Ephraim’s staff. Another significant manuscript is a 12th-century one of 114 parchment pages about the
Register Authority stipulates the procedures required to Deir Surian has given the Church countless saints consecration of new churches. The biggest manuscript is a 369-page tome written in both
correct erroneously-cited religion in the new computer- and several popes, the last of whom is the present Coptic and Arabic. It is the oldest version of the New Testament and was revised against
ised birth certificates or IDs, and is indeed discrim- Pope Shenouda III, the 117th pope of the Coptic Greek, Syriac, Ethiopian and Latin translations. A note declares: "This copy was bought
inatory. In case a Muslim has been incorrectly cited as Orthodox Church. by the abbot Anba Kiriakos (1500-1517) from a monk in return for three other books and
Christian and wishes to have this corrected, he or she 10 gold Ashrafeya (the currency of the time)".
is required to submit official certificates which are The cache
very easily obtained. But when a Christian is errone- Today Deir Surian comes into the limelight because of the cache of 1,500-year-old Modern copies
ously cited as Muslim and wishes to have this cor- manuscripts it houses. The abbot Anba Matta’ous told Watani that the library had The Ethiopian collection of 28 manuscripts dates back to the 18th century. The oldest
rected, he or she is required to furnish certificates originally been established in the ancient tower—the most protected part of the mon- contains psalms, hymns for St Mary and litanies of the Ethiopian Church.
which are very difficult—if not impossible—to obtain." astery. However, the wildly fluctuating conditions—temperatures ranging from 5 to 35 The Greek manuscripts are all incomplete. Fortunately, many of them were translated
Most Muslims in Egypt probably know nothing degrees Celcius and relative humidity from 30 to 80 per cent—were not kind to the books into Syriac by the monks. The Arabic manuscripts are the largest in number and date back
about this. I feel certain that, had they known, such a and manuscripts. Since the middle of last century, the library came into the focus of from the 13th century to the first half of the 20th century.
situation would not have passed without condem- Coptic scholars, who began a process of cataloguing and indexing. Among those who Father Bigoul stretched a hand to show me one particular manuscript. It was a copy of
nation. They should not be held responsible for it took care of the library was also the monk Father Antonious al-Suriani, who later became the famous tome Bustan al-Ruhban—a book that relates the experiences of monks in their
merely because they are Muslims. Instead, they Pope Shenouda III, and who moved its contents to a wider, better-aerated place in a new spiritual quests. It was scripted in the 1950s by the monk Antonious al-Suriani, who is
should be informed … which brings us back to the building in 1970. Several other monks—many of whom are today bishops—later worked today Pope Shenouda III. The words were written in black ink, the headlines in red ink,
need for better communication and integration. on the library. Anba Matta’ous divided into two sections, one for the books and one for and at the top of each of the 156 pages a small ornamented cross was drawn in red.
Holy Family century tome on Egypt prepared by some man Hani Serri earlier this month issued a will house a department for trade services the Interpol to retrieve the mummy mask.
N To commemorate the visit of the Holy
Family to Egypt—celebrated by the Coptic
150 scholars and 2,000 artists accompanying
Napoleon’s military campaign against Egypt
decree on the regulation of online stock
dealings. Firms providing online dealing in
and one for governmental services, and will
be equipped with computer networks and
The 19th-Dynasty (1307-1196 BC) mask of
Ka-nefer-nefer was unearthed in Saqqara,
Orthodox Church on 1 June of every in 1798. Throughout 20 years, they ex- securities must have in place information satellite connections. Giza, in 1952, and was later smuggled out of
E year—Sakiat al-Sawi or al-Sawi Cultural
Wheel in Zamalek screened Khairi Bishara’s
amined every aspect of contemporary and
ancient Egyptian civilisation, producing 20
protection systems to head off possible hack-
ing, and must also have electronic mech- Prehistoric
the country. It depicts a young woman with
inlaid glass eyes and a gold-coated face
W documentary Jesus in Egypt last Tuesday. A
seminar, attended by Anba Morqos, Bishop
volumes of text and plates of unmatched
accuracy and detail. The entire collection
anisms to receive, register and confirm com-
mands by dealers in a secure way. The
The Supreme Council of Antiquities
(SCA) has announced the discovery of 36
wearing a wig and holding a wooden amulet
in each hand.
has been scanned, catalogued, indexed and online service is a new addition to the Cairo
S of Shubra al-Kheima, Anba Youhanna Qolta
of the Coptic Catholic Patriarchate, Sheikh digitally restored. A tool was developed to
publish texts in the standard Extended
and Alexandria Stock Exchange (CASE).
tombs in Sinai dating back to prehistoric
times. The tombs were unearthed during an Egypt strikes gold
Mahmoud Ashour and Dr Mohamed al- archaeological survey of Ain-Hadra and Egyptians Kareem Ibrahim (55kg), Ashraf
L Razzaz, former dean of the Faculty of Fine
Arts, discussed Adib Naguib Salama’s book
Markup Language format. The Stockholm
Challenge is a global networking pro-
Investor service
A report by the investment ministry has
Abu-Rdeis areas in central Sinai. al-Ghorbali (66kg), Ahmed Abdel-Sadiq
(84kg) and Yasser Abdel Rahman (120 kg)
I The Holy Family in Egypt. gramme for Information and Communica-
tion Technology (ICT) entrepreneurs. For
estimated the total investment in the ec-
onomic zone west of the Gulf of Suez at
Legal action
Zahi Hawwas, secretary-general of Egypt’s
won gold medals in the African Greco-
Roman Wrestling Championship in South Af-
The Stockholm challenge over ten years its ICT prize has attracted
N The Bibliotheca Alexandrina has reached
the finals of the Stockholm Challenge 2006,
over 3,000 projects.
more than LE11.9 billion. Twenty-one firms
and plants employing some 9,000 workers
have operations there. A service centre for
SCA, said the deadline for St Louis Art
Museum to turn over to Egypt an ancient
mask in its collection expired on 16 May.
rica earlier this month. Ibrahim Gabr (74kg)
won a silver medal. Mohammad Haikel won
the 75 kg gold medal in Turkey’s Inter-
E with its project of the digitisation of Des-
cription de l’Egypte—the landmark 19th-
Stocks online
Egypt’s Capital Market Authority chair-
investors will be built on 16,000 sq m in this
zone with a $10 million grant from China. It
Hawwas said that Egypt will take legal action
against the museum and will seek help from
national Boxing Tournament which brought
together 198 boxers from 41 countries.
Published by Watani Printing and Publishing Corporation 27, Abdel Khaleq Tharwat st. Cairo – Egypt Tel. 202-3927201, 202-3936051 Fax 202-3935946 Website: www.watani.com.eg E-Mail: watanie@watani.com.eg
23.
6 Watani Francophone 28 Mai 2006
Trésor
au mo-
nastère De
la Vierge De Watani Francophone
Laura Hakim et Michael
Victor s'entretiennent avec
Anba Metaos du couvent et du
Deir El Sourian trésor des Manuscrits
nous avons rencontré le chef du couvent Anba Metaos et le moine Bigole prenait aussi des manuscrits rares offerts au couvent et 250 volumes des
Les regards du monde entier sont braqués ces jours-ci sur " Deir El El Souriani, bibliothécaire des manuscrits... C'était pour nous une occasion
pour connaître l'histoire d un couvent situé depuis le quatrième siècle au
plus rares dans toutes les branches rapportés de Bagdad par -Moussa El
Nossebi- chef du couvent au début du dixième siècle…
Sourian " (monastère des Syriens) dans le désert du Wadi El Natroun
après l'appel adressé par la Fondation Britanique - LEVANTINE - à tous milieu du désert de Wadi El Natroun. Puis au Moyen-Age, après sa destruction, le donjon a été restauré et la
les peuples du monde pour participer à la sauvegarde des Manuscrits con- bibliothèque a été déplacée dans une chambre du deuxième étage de la
servés il y a quinze siècles dans ce prestigieux monastère. De l'histoire du monastère anba Metaos nous dit: tour près de l'Eglise de l'ange Michel et on a dû placer les manuscrits dans
Cet appel a été lancé le mardi 16 mai 2006 durant la réception donnée des coffres…
Deir El Sourian fut construit a la fin du cinquième siècle, il fut consacré à
par l'ambassadeur de la Grande-Bretagne en Egypte, Monsieur Derek Dans la deuxième moitié du vingtième siècle - en 1951 - le défunt doc-
la Theotokos c'est-à-dire Mère de Dieu. Les moines Syriaques y vécurent
Plumbly et son épouse Lady Nadia Plumbly. teur Mourad Kamel avait fait la première liste de ce que comprenait la col-
avec les coptes du huitième au seizième siècle environ. Depuis lors, le
Au cours de cette réception le professeur Sabstin Brook, ex-directeur de lection syriaque.
monastère s'appela le monastère de la Sainte Vierge, connu sous le nom
la section des études syriaques à l'université d'Oxford a dévoilé la réalité Puis, le défunt monsieur Yassa Abdel Messih, directeur du musée copte
de Deir El Sourian.
des Manuscrits de Deir El Sourian et leur importance comme patrimoine en ce temps- là, a fait un index pour les manuscrits du couvent.
Comme beaucoup de vieilles églises coptes, sa forme est semblable à
humain, il a ajouté à cela qu'il est nécessaire de s'y intéresser pour faire Ensuite Dieu a permis qu'un des moines à cette époque - le moine An-
celle d'un arche, symbole de l'Arche de Noé qui sauva les croyants du dé-
revivre la bibliothèque du couvent. tonios El Souriani - le pape Chenouda lll - qui grâce à sa sollicitude, les
luge.
Il a en outre annoncé que de son côté il a commencé à s'associer avec manuscrits dispersés ont revu la lumière et respiré l'air car il a déplacé la
Il a ajouté: La gloire du Deir ne revient pas seulement à cette ancienne
le professeur Lucas Van Romapay, directeur de la section des études Sy- bibliothèque du donjon vers un endroit plus vaste.
histoire mais aussi, à la bénédiction du lieu dans lequel se trouvent les
riaques à l'université Duc de l'Etat North pour faire un catalogue de ces Puis il a commencé à les remettre en ordre et à les numéroter lui-même.
corps et organes de douze saints ( St. Abba Yehnis Cama, St. Moise, Le
Manuscrits rares et qui sera publié au début de l'année 2007. Ensuite les moines ont continué successivement à s'intéresser de cette
Noir, Le St. Afraim le Syrien, St.Yehness Le Court, St. Discorus l'Alex-
Ce catalogue suscitera un écho monumental dans le monde vu l'im- bibliothèque qui renferme une merveilleuse collection de plusieurs cen-
andrin, St. Severus, Patriarche d'Antioche, Kiriakus et sa mère Youlitta,
portance de ce qu'il comprend comme détails de ces Manuscrits rares taines de manuscrits Coptes, Arabes, Syriaques et Ethiopiens.
Tadrus El-Meshreky Le Prince, James Le Martyr, Les quarante Martyrs
dans différentes branches. Elle renferme aussi plus de 14.000 livres portant sur différents sujets. En-
dans Sabastia et les cheveux de Marie Madeleine)
Puis dans la parole prononcée par - John Bill - homme d'affaires et fin, nous avons trouvé qu'il fallait séparer les manuscrits des livres. Nous
Il nous a aussi parlé des sites impressionants du couvent: La porte des
membre du conseil d'administration de la Fondation caritative - LE- avons alors fait une bibliothèque au deuxième étage pour les livres et une
symboles, qui représente les sept époques couvrant l'ère de la chrétienté
VANTINE - et qui est arrivé avec environ vingt personnes - hommes d'af- autre au troisième pour les manuscrits dont le moine Bigole El Souriani est
jusqu'au second avènement du Christ, la cellule de Saint Bichoy où il
faires et intellectuels anglais - soucieux de conserver le patrimoine et de responsable, celui-ci tient bon à restaurer ces manuscrits, à les sauve-
s'isolait pour s'adonner à la prière, au haut de laquelle il haletait ses che-
travailler pour le sauvegarder, a indiqué que l'histoire de fonder une as- garder et à faire revivre ce patrimoine important pour les chercheurs et les
veux pour éviter de s'endormir au cours de ses veillées, L'arbre de Saint
sociation bénévole - Levantine Foundation - était en réponse à l'invitation étudiants dans le monde entier. C'est pour cela qu'il a invité l'experte en
Ephem qui était un bâton sur lequel s'appuyait le moine mais pour que
de l'experte de restauration anglaise - Elisabeth Sobcyznski - qui, après restauration de papiers en Grande-Bretagne - Elisabeth Sobcyznski - qui
les autres moines ne pensent pas qu'il le tenait pour se donner un air de
avoir vu et évaluer la valeur historique, culturelle et religieuse de ce pa- s'est émerveillée en visitant le couvent fin 1998. Mais elle a en même
distinction il l'a planté dans le sol, il prit alors racine et devint le fameux
trimoine, son enthousiasme l'a poussée, ainsi que ses collègues à fonder temps exprimé sa profonde tristesse pour le mauvais état des manuscrits
tamarinier.
cette association caritative qu'il a comparée à une planification complète et avec enthousiasme elle a décidé de se dévouer à conserver et sauve-
Il a poursuivi son dialogue en parlant du Donjon - la tour - du Deir.
pour la restauration de ce patrimoine tout au long des cinq prochaines an- garder ce patrimoine.
Là, il nous a expliqué qu'il servait de refuge lors des attaques des tribunes
nées et qui coûtera environ une somme de six millions de livres sterling. berbères qui vivaient au nord du désert. Cette tour comprenait un sous-sol Watani Francophone quitte Deir El Sourian au moment où tous les re-
et trois étages. Ce donjon avait également quelques chambres dans les- gards se dirigent vers lui.. vers le phare qui se trouve au milieu de trois au-
A la lumière de ce grand intérêt - Watani Francophone - est allé à Deir quelles ont été gardés les manuscrits rédigés par les moines Syriens qui ha- tres couvents du Wadi El Natroun.. Terre benie par la traversée de la
El Sourian pour contempler ce trésor qui a intéressé le monde entier. Là, bitaient au couvent depuis la deuxième moitié du neuvième siècle, elle com- Sainte Famille.
Un ballet Junior
agenda
Jazz
Un duo de guitares interprété par deux
jeunes musiciens au talent confirmé : un
Français Guillaume Hogan et un Egyptien
Waël Kheidr qui ensemble rendront hom- Ballet. En coopération avec l'Opéra du Caire et avec le soutien de l'Association française d'action artistique (-
mage à Django Reinhardt. Ils inter- AFAA- ministère des Affaires étrangères), le Junior Ballet contemporain du Conservatoire national supérieur de
préteront et redonneront des composi-
tions du grand jazzman au rythme musique et de danse de Paris (CNSMDP) donnera sa seconde représentation théâtrale en Egypte, le 30 mai au
swinguant du jazz manouche. théâtre Sayed Darwich à Alexandrie. Sa tournée se poursuivra à Minsk, puis à Saint-Pétersbourg...
Un concert drôle et émouvant qui saura
séduire et emmener les spectateurs
dans un moment musical unique. Le 30
mai, à 19h au Centre Français de cul- " M onter sur scène, s'approprier le plateau, rencontrer le pub-
Névine Lameï de la formation des danseurs et de la chorégraphie. Après les mis-
sions au Caire des chorégraphes Jean Alavi et Daniel Agesilas et la
recréation de sa chorégraphie du " Sacre du Printemps " par Joseph
ture et de coopération, Mounira. lic, le convaincre de son travail d'artiste"... voilà la finalité des formations de
la Direction des études chorégraphiques. Il est donc essentiel, dans le cadre Russillo à l'Opéra du Caire, le Junior Ballet interprétera les créations de qua-
Cinéma des études au Conservatoire, que les étudiants danseurs et notateurs se con- tre des chorégraphes les plus représentatifs de la danse contemporaine. A sa-
frontent à la scène et au public, dès que possible et aussi souvent que pos- voir: " PULSE ", chorégraphie de Mui Cheuk-Yin, créée en 2005, sur une
Le voyage de Chihiro, est un film commande commune du Conservatoire de Paris et de l'Académie des Arts de
d'animation japonais de Hayao Miy- sible. Raison pour laquelle le Junior ballet donne chaque année une série de
représentations au Conservatoire de Paris, puis en tournée en France et à la Scène de Hongkong. "Sixames", chorégraphie de Jean Alavi, créée en 1998
azaki. C'est l'histoire fantastique de à l'occasion du concours "Jeunes chorégraphes de Normandie ". "Le Miroir
Chihiro, petite fille de 10 ans. Partie l'étranger. Une manière d'évoluer et de s'enrichir par cet échange mutuel. Le
Junior Ballet regroupe les élèves de cinquième année de chacune des forma- Brise" chorégraphie de Karin Waehner, crée en 1995, à Armentières. "Cher-
avec sa famille pour leur nouvelle maison, chant l'inspiration poétique", chorégraphie de Paco Dècina, créée en 2004 sur
ils vont se perdre au travers d'un chemin tions de danseurs-interprètes du Conservatoire de Paris. Il existe deux Juniors
Ballets, l'un classique, l'autre contemporain. Destiné à donner aux étudiants une commande du Conservatoire de Paris. " [...] Dans ce travail avec le Junior
dans le monde des dieux. Par inconscience et Ballet, j'ai voulu mettre en avant la recherche de cet
ignorance, ses parents sont transformés en co- une expérience de la scène et des publics et à fav-
oriser leur insertion professionnelle, le Junior Ballet état subtil qui nourrit et soutient tous les mouve-
chon, elle va devoir apprendre les règles ments, les gestes et les dynamique. .Pour ouvrir un
étranges de ces lieux, travailler pour survivre et espérer sauver leur permet d'aborder des répertoires classiques et
contemporains et de se confronter au processus de vrai espace de création, j'ai amené les interprètes au
son père et sa mère. Miyazaki nous fait découvrir un environne- bord du vide, face à cette page blanche, où, par
ment onirique qui réveille les fantasmes de notre enfance pour création aux côtés de chorégraphes de grande re-
nommée de toutes périodes et de tous styles, de Ba- l'abandon, l'inconnu se métamorphose en danse. Ici,
nous décrire un monde où les valeurs se perdent, comme les par l'intuition et l'inspiration, nous saisissons ce fil
identités. Le film a reçu l'Ours d'or au Festival de Berlin et a lanchine à Forsythe, de Merce Cunningham à An-
gelin Prejlocaj, en passant par Dominique Bagouet. subtil qui nous relie à tout ce qui existe. Toute la
été nominé aux Oscars 2003 comme meilleur film d'animation. matière chorégraphique a donc surgi du corps des
Le 28 mai, à 17h au Centre culturel Français d'Alexandrie.(Ver- Créé en 1795, le Conservatoire national supérieur
de musique et de danse de Paris a ouvert ses pre- danseurs, suivant le désir d'une pièce qui voulait se
sion française, sous-titré en anglais). raconter à elle-même. " déclare Paco Dècina en oc-
mières classes de danse en 1925 (classes de filles)
puis en 1947 (classes de garçons). Il est installé dans tobre 2004. Les danseurs du Junior ballet dans les
Ballet le site de la Cité de la Musique depuis 1990. quatre représentations assument avec vaillance et sou-
Le Sacre du printemps est de retour. Ce ballet présenté, pour la Daniel Agesilas en assure actuellement la direc- plesse un spectacle de grande qualité et extrêmement
première fois, au théâtre des Champs-Elysées, est composé de tion des études chorégraphiques autour d'un projet sympathique. "Les danseurs font preuve d'une tech-
deux actes, les tableaux de la Russie païenne d'Igor Stravinski et d'enrichissement des cursus pédagogiques et d'in- nicité et d'un entrain remarquable. Aucune faille ne
Nicolas Roerich, chorégraphiés par Vaslav Nijinsky et composés scription au cœur des réseaux artistiques pro- peut être décelée dans leurs ensembles et leur
par Stravinski. Le Sacre du printemps est néanmoins considéré fessionnels. Il propose également une formation de fraîcheur est un véritable régal pour les yeux. Il est
comme l'un des piliers du modernisme, au niveau de la musique et danseur et une formation à la notation cho- rare, de nos jours, de voir encore naître des œuvres
de la danse au XXe siècle. Dans une chorégraphie moderne signée régraphique destinées aux danseurs professionnels. d'un tel lyrisme et d'une telle musicalité interprétées
Joseph Russillo et avec l'orchestre symphonique du Caire, dirigée La tournée en Egypte des 22 membres du Junior avec une grande maîtrise et beaucoup de brio! ".
par Nader Abbassi, Le Sacre du printemps sera présenté dans une Ballet Contemporain du Conservatoire national su- Le Junior Ballet Contemporain propose et déve-
chorégraphie moderne, signée Joseph Russillo. Il prendra peau périeur de musique et de danse de Paris (CNSMDP) loppe des ateliers par ailleurs destinés aux danseurs
neuve et traitera du mythe pharaonique de la fiancée du Nil qui s'inscrit dans le programme triennal de coopération égyptiens, les 28 et 29 mai à Alexandrie. Au rendez -
sera jouée par la ballerine Arminia Kamel. Les 28, 29 et 30 mai, à réalisé avec le soutien du CFCC entre l'Opéra du vous de la soirée du 30 mai, un programme somp-
21h au Grand Théâtre de l'Opéra du Caire Caire et le Conservatoire de Paris dans les domaines tueux de danse classique et néoclassique.