Sulaymaniyah hosted its first cinematic concert at Cinema Salim. The event combined a French film with Kurdish subtitles and live music. It was organized by the Directorate of Culture and Arts in partnership with the French Institute and Zoya Culture.
The cinematic concert screened a French film while musicians performed live on stage. This unique format offered audiences a blend of cinema and music. Dana Karim, filmmaker and head of Zoya Culture, said the event is part of the French Cinema Nights project in Sulaymaniyah.
The project screens one French film each month with Kurdish subtitles. Its goal is to introduce local audiences to French cinema and promote cultural exchange.
Karim explained that this edition is special. It merges cinematic storytelling with live music. This is the first cinematic concert in Kurdistan and the region. “We aim to combine Kurdish and French cinematic culture,” Karim said. “We want to present films enjoyed by fans of French cinema.”
The event was free and open to the public. Organizers expect a large turnout. Live music accompanied the visuals on stage, creating a rich, immersive experience. “That is why we call this a cinematic concert,” Karim added. “It combines film and live music for a fresh cultural experience.”
The cinematic concert took place at Cinema Salim in Sulaymaniyah. Organizers hope it will inspire collaborations between Kurdish and French artists. They aim to create a new cultural model in the region.
By merging film and live performance, the event offered a new kind of cultural entertainment. It highlighted growing interest in international cinema and live arts. Its success could pave the way for similar events across Kurdistan.
