Colors of MENA is a vibrant musical evening with a typical festival vibe, where we take you across three stages at De Oosterpoort, exploring the musical edges of the MENA region. With performances by acts that have already made their mark — thanks to memorable shows at major festivals in the Netherlands — complemented by names you may be hearing for the first time but will definitely want to hear more from.

Expect the colorful sounds of MENA blending with Western pop music. An evening to attend, experience, enjoy great music, and maybe even show off a few dance moves.

Altın Gün

For over five years, Altın Gün has captured the world’s imagination with an unforgettable fusion of sounds. The band combines psychedelic rock, deep funk, synthpop, cosmic reggae, and more with the rich and incredibly diverse traditions of Anatolian and Turkish folk music. Renowned for their dazzlingly hypnotic live performances, Altın Gün conquers stages across the globe — including a sold-out show at our very own De Oosterpoort in 2023!

EMEL

The Tunisian singer EMEL places women at the heart of her creative musical process, crafting a unique blend of tribal rhythms, percussion, urban, and electronic sounds. Her work is not made for mere consumption; instead, she aspires to transcend time, borders, and cultures through her music.

Al-Qasar

The music of Al-Qasar is relentless and captivating, deeply rooted in the hypnotic sounds of North African trance — often referred to as Arabian fuzz. These elements are elegantly woven together with the refined beauty of Arabic scales and the raw energy and thrill of rock ‘n’ roll.

Min Taka

Based in Istanbul and Rotterdam, Min Taka takes her name from a myth about a vanishing planet. She shares her inner world through genre-defying music that moves fluidly between indie, liquid DnB, synth, and hyperpop. Her songs explore themes such as identity, connection, femininity, and belonging.