Female Mawlawiya Performance

Female Mawlawiya Performance @MASQ
Experience a powerful Ramadan evening at the MASQ with a rare performance of female Mawlaweya whirling derwishes, set within one of Historic Cairo’s most atmospheric monuments.
📅 Thursday, 12 March 2026
🕰️ 7:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Mausoleum of al-Gulshani, City of the Dead, Cairo
🗺️ Find us here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ejMuz4Wg9VCia3zV6
For centuries, the whirling Sufi derwishes ceremony was performed exclusively by men. Today, a new generation of women bring a refined and powerful interpretation to this spiritual tradition, honouring its discipline, symbolism, and thoughtful depth.
The performance will be accompanied live by Mo’men Mustafa performing on the end-blown reed flute, or ney, a recital of Ottoman musical compositions written specifically for Mawlawiya ceremonies. The dialogue between the turning body and the sound of the ney creates a unique atmosphere rooted in centuries of sacred art.
This event is part of the “Ramadan at Qaitbey’s” programme at MASQ and also featuring the Ramadan Handcrafts Sultan Fair and additional cultural activities throughout the evening. The programme is funded by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
Come early and enjoy!