International Performances
Bringing Belgium to Memphis in May of 2011
Memphis in May brings exciting performers from around the world to Memphis each May, sharing international culture with the people of the Mid-South through music, song, dance, and cuisine - live!
Coming Soon: Keep a lookout on this page for information about the world-class Belgian performances coming to Memphis in May of 2011!
Tunisia in May of 2010
Below are the world-class performers who gave exciting and alluring shows as part of the 2010 International Salute to the modern African nation of Tunisia.
Tunisia: Rhythm of the Sands 
This past May of 2010, Memphians in attendance experienced an evening of the sights, sounds and tastes of Tunisia with the feature international performance Tunisia: Rhythm of the Sands. Direct from our honored country, Memphis in May welcomed the acclaimed troupe Walid Gharbi. Featuring rhythms of the Berbers, Bedouin, and more, Walid Gharbi revives the rich traditions of Tunisia, keeping Tunisian heritage alive through the arts. Also performing was the Sybel Ballet Theatre with a show that incorporates contemporary dance and new technologies, presenting a new perception of dance and a message of a united world where diverse cultures coexist.
This entertaining performance offered a night that combines music, song, dance, and theater to showcase the folkloric traditions of Tunisia. A sample taste of authentic Tunisian cuisine from Chef Rafik Tlatli was served during intermission to complete the evening.
May 7, 2010 • 7 PM
Orpheum Theatre
The Cinema of Tunisia
"Being Here" - Tunisian feature film
Each year Memphis in May presents an evening of popular cinema from the honored country. These modern films represent the creative spirit of the current class of movie makers from around the world. 
"Being Here," a film produced by Tunisian native Zran Mohamed, is a documentary that portrays the perception between tradition and modernity. Through a collection of portraits of small-town inhabitants in southern Tunisia, share the story of attachment to cultural heritage and identity, as it dwells alongside an exclusive embrace of modernity.
May 6, 2010 · 7 PM
Indie Memphis
Brooks Museum of Art
Presented in conjunction with Indie Memphis
Balti Performs at the 2010 Beale Street Music Festival!
Balti, a popular Tunisian rapper and producer, is acclaimed throughout his country for his message and his ability to portray the reality of Tunisian society and the life of its youth. As a former member of the well-known Tunisian rap group ‘Wled Bled”(homeboys), Balti has become one of Tunisia’s most popular rap artists. Influenced by both Tunisian rappers and American hip hop, Balti brings his stories to life through his French, English, and Arabic flows, teaching the world what life on the streets is like in North Africa.
Balti and his group were self-taught in the basics of rapping with free styling. They soon found their own unique style, making a name for themselves and gaining popularity throughout Tunisia. Through their live performances and the connections they made, the group significantly affected the wave of hip hop that had just begun sweeping the nation. As time passed and they developed as artists, the members of the group decided to go their separate ways and pursue solo careers.
Today, Balti’s time is spent performing and working on solo projects. His style is unique and his topics diverse, ranging from the growing problem of poverty within the North African community of Europe, to a 102-bar track of straight battling. Balti composes and produces every element of his music, blending different sounds to create his own unique style. Balti has great respect for the art of hip-hop and all other genres of music, a respect that is reflected in his own distinct style.