Many Egyptian artists have lent their voices to the Arabic versions of Disney films, creating an enchanting experience for audiences in the Arab region. This dubbing has contributed to the additional success of these films, capturing the hearts of both adults and children. Over nearly four decades, Disney films have attracted numerous Arab artists who performed voice-overs in the Arabic versions of the company's animated films, solidifying their place in the hearts of many.
Not every actor possesses the unique vocal and performance talents required for cartoon films. Still, Egyptian artists have excelled in this realm, contributing to the great success of dubbing Disney films in the Egyptian dialect since the idea was first launched. Many stars have participated in the voice tournaments for these animated films, proving that not every star can be a great cartoon voice actor, but those who can add a special magic to these beloved characters.
Inside Out 2
Currently in theatres, the sequel to Disney's hit movie Inside Out has captured the hearts of audiences. The film continues to explore the complex world of human emotions, focusing more on the turbulent teenage years. The film's portrayal of feelings of anxiety and emotional challenges provides a prominent glimpse into the mental health of teenagers, especially since these emotions are a growing concern globally, with particular challenges in the Middle East due to factors such as political and social instability, academic pressures, and cultural stigmas surrounding mental health.
The Pioneers
Contrary to what some believe, the participation of Arab artists in Disney films dates back to the seventies. Snow White and the Seven Dwarves was the first movie dubbed in Arabic and presented by Disney in theatres in the region in 1975. The international company assigned the task of sound directing to Dr. Ratiba El-Hafni, the first woman to hold the position of director of the Cairo Opera House. Due to time constraints, Ratibai, an operatic singer, performed the film's songs herself. The company recognised her pioneering role in the musical direction of Disney films with an obituary on its official Facebook page upon her death in 2013.
Iconic Voices
Among the big stars who contributed their voices to Disney films, Amina Rizk played Grandma Willow in Pocahontas, and the late Ragaa El-Geddawi voiced Mrs. Calloway in Home on the Range. Abdel Rahman Abu Zahra left a lasting impression with his portrayals of Scar in The Lion King and Jafar in Aladdin.
Another Generation
Mohamed Henedy is one of the most associated voices with Disney animation in the Egyptian dialect, famously voicing Timon in The Lion King and Mike Wazowski in Monsters, Inc. Mona Zaki played the role of Kida in Atlantis: The Lost Empire alongside Ahmed El-Sakka, who voiced Milo. In Aladdin, Mona brought Princess Jasmine to life with her voice performance.
Versatile Performers
Salwa Muhammad Ali has extensive experience in dubbing, voicing Shenzi in The Lion King, Duchess in The Aristocats, and Madame Medusa in The Rescuers. Hala Fakher played Zira in The Lion King II: Simba's Pride and Cruella De Vil in 101 Dalmatians. Ali Hassanein voiced several characters, including John Ratcliffe in Pocahontas, Frollo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Zeus in Hercules, and Fillmore in Cars.
Tribute to Soraya Ibrahim
Although the late artist Soraya Ibrahim did not achieve widespread stardom in artistic works, her participation in the world of animation had a significant impact. The Disney Bel Araby Facebook page mourned her upon her death in 2015, acknowledging her contributions to the voice acting of several famous Disney characters. She voiced fashionable Dana from The Incredibles, Rose from Monsters, Inc., Nazla from Cars, Madame Bakkar from Atlantis: The Lost Empire, and the scolding lady from The Emperor's New Groove.
