Egypt’s Minister of Culture mourns Esmat Yahya, former president of the Academy of Arts

CAIRO – 19 January 2021: Minister of Culture Inas Abdel-Dayem, mourned Esmat Yahya, the former dean of the Higher Institute of Ballet and the former president of the Academy of Arts, who passed away on January 19, following a sudden health crisis.

Minister of Culture Abdel Dayem said that the creative world has lost one of its prominent icons in art and academic education. She added that Yahya was like a father, friend and teacher to many artists, pointing to his rich career along which he succeeded to support generations of creative people.

It is noteworthy that Esmat Yahya was the Professor of Kinetic Performance at the Higher Institute for Folk Art, Dean of the High Institute for Ballet (1999-2004), Dean of the Higher Institute for Folk Art (2005-2009) and the President of the Egyptian Academy of Arts (2006-2009).

He directed many classical and international ballet shows as well as many plays, television dramas and films. He also designed and directed a group of celebrations and festivals for national occasions in Egypt.

Yahya was awarded medals, shields and certificates of appreciation for his achievements in the fields of culture, arts, media, sports and development. He also headed Egypt's delegations in many international conferences, forums and festivals.