El Sett: Voice of Connection
In a world on fire, we search for that which brings us together. Nothing does so as powerfully as the voice of Umm Kulthum. Whether you grew up with her voice or are discovering her heritage for the first time today: her music is a universal language that opens hearts and builds bridges.
The Film: El Sett
El Sett (2025) is an Egyptian biographical feature film about the life of the legendary singer Umm Kulthum. The film tells the story of a girl from a religious rural family who grows into one of the greatest female icons of the Arab music world.
In addition to her musical career, the film shows how Umm Kulthum navigated a male-dominated cultural and political context, and how she became a symbol of national pride, female power, and artistic independence in the 20th century.
The film had its world premiere at the 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival in 2025 and was rewarded there with a standing ovation.
Program
Come together for a special afternoon centered around the film El Sett. We will not only watch the film but also taste the rich flavors of Egyptian culture and share memories of this extraordinary woman.
3:00 PM Introduction
3:10 PM Film: El Sett
5:40 PM Program in the foyer – With Egyptian snacks, dialogue, and live music.
7:30 PM Closing
Tickets
Tickets for COA pass holders are sold out. The last regular tickets are available via Focus.
Program Council
From the project Verre binding , film is used as an art form to create encounters between Arnhemmers from near and far.
The programme council, which started in October 2024, chooses films from all over the world with universal themes that offer the viewer a broader perspective. Verre Binding gives visitors the opportunity to meet Arnhemmers from near and far and to discuss universal themes together.