Damascus Celebrates Assala Nasri's Return in Grand Concert After 15-Year Absence

Syrian artist Assala Nasri held a major concert in the capital Damascus, her first in approximately 15 years, generating wide acclaim from public and officials alike. The renowned singer, celebrated regionally, was honored at an event thousands of Syrians had long awaited. The artistic evening at Al-Faihaa Hall extended past midnight, marking Assala’s first appearance on home soil after years of absence due to her opposition to the Bashar al-Assad regime. The Syrian Satellite Channel broadcast the concert live, titled "The Return of Authenticity." Assala opened her first set with "Syria is Paradise," penned by Batoul Zaidan and Yara Ahmed, and composed by Ali Hassoun, then presented a diverse selection of works in two sets, each about two hours long. During the concert, Assala addressed her audience emotionally, stating she still could not comprehend standing among them, affirming her long-held dream of this reunion. She hoped it would occur as all Syrians began "a stage of healing." She added that while "healing" varies, it remains incomplete without art, music, and their respect. Syrian Culture Minister Mohamed Yassin Saleh honored the singer with a shield symbolizing Syrian governorates. He stated Assala's return embodies every honest, free Syrian's return home, expressing Syria's pride in its daughter who left her mark globally and now impacts her home country. Assala, 57, is the daughter of the late composer and singer Mustafa Nasri. Her last concert in Syria was in 2010, before she joined the opposition to the Bashar al-Assad regime, which fell in December 2024.