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Assala Nasri performs in Damascus after 16-year hiatus

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2026-09-20 14:05 UTC → 2026-09-20 20:17 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Syrian singer Assala Nasri announced plans to return to Damascus for two concerts at Al-Fayhaa Sports Hall on September 17 and 19, marking her first performances in the capital in approximately 15 years. Organized under the slogan ‘Return of Authenticity’ with support from the Syrian Ministry of Culture and the Artists Union, the events were intended to symbolize a revitalization of the nation’s cultural life. Nasri also indicated that half of the concert profits would be donated to Syrian charitable organizations. As the scheduled performances approached, controversy emerged when individuals tore down concert advertisements in Damascus, citing religious and social objections. Despite this, tickets reportedly sold out within two days of their release. On September 17, Nasri performed at Al-Fayhaa Hall, marking her first official appearance in the city in 16 years. The two-hour show featured the Inana Band, led by Maestro Adnan Fathallah and directed by Bassem Christo, which incorporated traditional folk rhythms and Dabke dance. The program included selections from her new Syrian album, which contains 14 tracks inspired by the musical heritage of various Syrian provinces, blended with her classic repertoire. During the performance, Nasri opened with the anthem ‘Raise Your Head High, You Are a Free Syrian,’ a song associated with the revolution. Syrian Culture Minister Mohammad Yassin Saleh honored Nasri on stage, describing her return as a ‘victory for freedom’ and a symbol of the return of free Syrian citizens. Nasri, whose return follows political shifts in Syria in late 2024, expressed that performing for her people felt like a ‘dream realized’. The event ~~is viewed by some~~ has sparked intense debate. While officials welcomed her as ~~a sign~~ the ‘daughter of ~~cultural normalization~~ Damascus’, conservative religious figures and ~~a return to social life in a post-conflict era.~~ preachers protested the event, labeling it inappropriate.

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