Get ready for a cultural journey through the heart of Downtown Cairo as Literature Night Downtown 2024 takes center stage on November 20, 2024. This unique event celebrates contemporary European literature, offering a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of multilingual storytelling in an iconic urban setting. Organized by the Czech Centres since 2006, this global initiative is now hosting its third Egyptian edition.

What’s Literature Night All About?

This year’s event is a vibrant collaboration between:

• Czech Centres and the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Cairo
• Royal Norwegian Embassy in Cairo
• Instituto Cervantes
• Sefsafa Publishing House
• NORLA – Norwegian Literature Abroad

With support from partners like Al Ismaelia for Real Estate Investment and Access Art Space, the event promises a night of literary exploration. The goal? To spotlight the diversity and creativity of contemporary European literature, highlight the power of translations, and foster connections between authors, readers, translators, and publishers.

What to Expect?

Literature Night Downtown 2024 transforms three unique venues into hubs of literary magic, with readings from three contemporary European works brought to life by Egyptian artistic figures. Here’s what’s in store:

• The Warehouse (5 Hussein Basha Al Meamari)
  • Book: A Contribution to the History of Joy by Radka Denemarková (Czechia)
  • Reader: Singer Salma Desouky (Luka)
• The Factory (3 Hussein Basha Al Meamari)
  • Book: Love by Hanne Ørstavik (Norway)
  • Reader: Poet Nesma Abdel Aziz
• Access Art Space (10 Al-Nabarawi, off Champollion St.)
  • Book: La Forastera by Olga Merino (Spain)
  • Reader: Actress Naglaa Younes

Each reading will be performed in Arabic, with translations into other languages available for the audience.

How It Works

The readings begin at 7:00 PM, with additional sessions at 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, running simultaneously across the three venues. This gives attendees the chance to wander through Downtown’s hidden gems, soaking up the literary atmosphere and exploring the vibrant cultural scene.

But that’s not all! The event features a fun competition—collect stamps from each venue to win a valuable prize. It’s a night of storytelling, exploration, and a touch of adventure.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Literature Night is more than just an event; it’s an immersive cultural experience. From its celebration of European literature and multilingualism to its intimate readings and unique venues, it’s a rare opportunity to engage with art and storytelling on a personal level.

So, mark your calendar, grab a friend, and head to Downtown Cairo for a night of stories, creativity, and connection. Who knows? You might just discover a new favorite author or win a prize along the way!