The Moroccan Culture Association, which organizes the Mawazine International Festival held in Rabat, Morocco, announced the participation of the star of the East, Umm Kulthum, during the 19th edition of the festival, through a special concert presented using hologram technology.
According to what was published on the festival's Instagram page, which will be held from June 21 to June 29, 2024, in Rabat, Umm Kulthum's concert will take place on the stage of Mohammed V Theater, where artistic performances with a traditional musical character are showcased, differing from other stages that predominantly feature open-air performances with a more show-like character.
The official announcement of the concert was published under the title: "Get ready for a special evening with magical hologram technology to revive the grand concert of the star of the East, Ms. Umm Kulthum." This step, adopted by many global festivals, aims to revitalize Arab cultural heritage in a new and innovative way, combining authenticity with technological advancement in a single artistic show.
#### What is Hologram Technology?
Hologram technology is a developed three-dimensional imaging technique that enables the viewer to experience images realistically, as if they are real. This technique is considered a fundamental part of the future of communication and entertainment, attracting interest from both audiences and professionals alike. The origins of hologram technology date back to 1947, when Hungarian physicist Dennis Gabor and British scientist Henrik Kockari developed the mathematical framework for holography.
Since then, the technology has experienced tremendous developments over decades, reaching what we know today, which the audience will witness in Umm Kulthum's concert at Mawazine. This technology is based on the principle of recording interactive light waves that produce three-dimensional images reflecting objects with a high degree of realism.
The process involves a complex series of steps starting with recording the light reflected from the object to be imaged onto a sensitive plate, followed by generating interference patterns of light waves on the plate to create the three-dimensional image. Optical engineering and the precise use of light rays are crucial parts of the holographic imaging process, requiring high accuracy in capturing and rendering shapes.
To implement this technology in reality, a set of equipment is necessary, including a holographic recording device consisting of lasers, filters, mirrors, sensitive plates, and special three-dimensional imaging cameras. Then there are holographic display screens that use to present the three-dimensional images realistically, available in various sizes and technologies, including volumetric holographic screens and laser-based screens. Hologram software, which is essential for creating, editing, and running the holograms, allows users to precisely modify images and add effects.
#### Stars at Mawazine Festival
In addition to the star of the East, Umm Kulthum, there will be a lineup of Arab artists performing on the stage of Mohammed V Theater, including Moroccan Samira Said, and Lebanese Karol Sakr and Abir Njeim. On the Nahda stage, dedicated to Arab music, many Arab artists' participation has been announced, including Mohamed Ramadan, Balqees, Nancy Ajram, Najwa Karam, Rami Ayach, and Angham.
As for the Souissi stage, where international stars shine for the Moroccan and Arab audience, it will feature performers like Nicki Minaj, the Korean group ATEEZ, DJ "MK," Calvin Harris, and Gregory Porter. The list of Moroccan artists who will participate in the 19th edition of the Mawazine International Festival has yet to be announced, and they typically hold various performances on a special stage located in the nearby city of Salé.
