The songs that echoed through the childhood of millions came alive once again as legendary Arab composer and singer Tarek Alarabi Tourgane returned to Bahrain, paying an emotional tribute to the kingdom that he says changed his life forever.
Performing for the second consecutive year at the Bahrain Summer Toy Festival at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir, Tourgane captivated packed audiences last night with timeless theme songs from beloved animated classics including Batman, Barbar, Earth’s Falcons, Captain Majid, Remi and Oath of Friendship.
Tickets for both concerts sold out within hours, with fans spanning three generations singing along to every word.
The performer credited Bahrain with launching his career after Spacetoon, the Arabic-language children’s television channel that made him a household name, first aired on Bahrain TV in March 2000 through a joint partnership.
“Bahrain was the turning point in my career,” he said. “Spacetoon’s launch here gave me exposure I never imagined. Overnight, thousands of fans became millions.”
The evening became even more touching when his son Mohammed joined him on stage, sharing songs that have transcended generations.
“Whether they were born in the 1980s, 1990s or 2000s, everyone still knows these songs,” he smiled. “They aren’t just popular in the Arab world. Even people who don’t speak Arabic connect with them because they carry messages of hope, friendship, perseverance and kindness.”
Despite ongoing health challenges that make prolonged standing difficult, Tourgane alternated between sitting and standing throughout the performance, drawing heartfelt applause from the audience.
Born in Damascus to Algerian parents, he has written, composed, arranged and performed more than 1,500 songs during a career spanning decades.
“I work as four people in one - singer, lyricist, composer and music arranger,” he laughed. “I put my soul into it from four directions.”
He also recalled the remarkable twist of fate that launched his career while working in a restaurant in Syria.
“A songwriter failed to turn up for a cartoon production meeting. I stepped in and wrote the song, thinking it was for a local programme. Everyone laughed because I had no idea it was a pan-Arab production. Then they told me I had been chosen unanimously. That’s how everything began.”
Joining the Venus Centre and later Spacetoon, he went on to compose almost every iconic theme song that defined a generation.
Looking ahead, the entertainer said sold-out concerts await him in Qatar, Kuwait and Syria, while continuing his campaign to perform with a full orchestra that many producers say is unnecessary due to sold out crowds.
Among those moved by the concert was 39-year-old Maryam Husain, who attended with her two-year-old daughter.
“Nothing prepared me for how nostalgic it would feel to hear Tarek Alarabi Tourgane’s voice again. The songs that shaped my childhood have somehow found their way into hers. It was a beautiful full-circle moment.”
Amina Abdulwahab, 32, shared a similar sentiment after attending with her young son.
“Sharing the music I grew up with through his curious little eyes made it an evening of pure joy and a memory I’ll treasure forever.”
Another sold out performance is planned for tonight.
– Mohammed Al A’ali
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