Accompanying this walk through the sound installation is a listening session, offering a deeper exploration into archival football commentary while drawing from Yara Mekawei’s personal sound archive. Her sonic collection reflects on the connection between the archival sound of the masses and history, allowing it to resonate here at HKW. In her role as custodian of this archive, Mekawei not only makes use of its contents in her artistic practice but also conserves cultural heritage in the process, shedding light on the nuanced poetic and political dimensions encapsulated within the sounds of football. 

The listening session invites participants to sonically traverse many spaces throughout Cairo, where Egypt’s fervent love for football becomes palpable amidst the bustling streets and echoing stadiums. Through her lens as a sound artist, Mekawei ventures into this dynamic realm, capturing the diverse tapestry of crowd chants and anthems that encapsulate the nation’s enduring passion for the sport.

Rooted in a history stretching over a century, football in Egypt intertwines with the nation’s quest for independence, often symbolizing empowerment and unity. Today, the fervour of Egyptian fans ignites international matches at Cairo International Stadium, where chants transcend linguistic and cultural barriers, forging a collective experience of excitement and solidarity.

Beyond its athletic significance, football serves as a mirror reflecting Egyptian aspirations and struggles. Football stadiums have stood as silent witnesses to pivotal moments, their very structures ingrained with the echoes of triumphs and trials alike. Through her meticulous recordings, Makawei safeguards this collective voice—with every cheer, and every roar, she pays homage to the enduring spirit of the game, capturing the sound of football in Egypt for generations to come.

This event takes place in the frame of Pitch Poetics: Football Commentary as Oralture.