Place Oum Kalthoum

Can a place echo with a voice that’s been silenced for decades? Here at Place Oum Kalthoum in Ivry-sur-Seine, it almost feels possible. Place Oum Kalthoum, a seemingly quiet corner of the city, resonates with the memory of a woman whose voice captivated millions. Oum Kalthoum, known as the “Star of the Orient,” was more than a singer. She was a cultural icon, a symbol of Egyptian nationalism, and a voice for the people. While she never actually performed in Ivry-sur-Seine, her impact on the Arab world, and indeed the world, is undeniable, hence this square named in her honor. Imagine the audacity of a young woman in the early 20th century, defying societal norms to pursue her passion for music. Oum Kalthoum began her career singing religious songs, disguised as a boy in her father’s troupe. Her talent, however, was too immense to be contained. She transitioned to secular music, collaborating with renowned poet Ahmed Rami, who penned 137 songs for her, and virtuoso lute player Mohamed El Qasabji. Her fame spread across the Arab world, and her concerts became legendary. Tickets were reportedly sold two years in advance. Even Bruno Coquatrix, the director of the Olympia in Paris, was initially unaware of her stature. He thought she was a belly dancer! He eventually agreed to host her, albeit at a hefty price set by Oum Kalthoum herself: 20 million centimes, plus expenses and accommodation for her and her 30-member orchestra. It was an unprecedented sum, but her two concerts at the Olympia in 1967 became historic events. In a time of political upheaval and social change, her music became a source of unity and hope. Oum Kalthoum dedicated her earnings from her international tours, including the Paris concerts, to the Egyptian government’s war effort, donating a staggering $520,000. Her generosity extended to her own people. She supported numerous charitable causes and helped countless families. Place Oum Kalthoum, though a modest space, serves as a reminder of this extraordinary woman’s legacy. It’s a tribute to a voice that continues to resonate across generations. It reminds us of the power of music to transcend boundaries and touch the human heart.