Rabat – Prominent Moroccan comedian, Abderrahim Tounsi, better known as “Abderraouf” was honored during the 16th annual Marrakech International Film Festival, which runs until December 10.
At a ceremony held at the Palace of Congress in Marrakech, in the presence of numerous national and international celebrities, fellow Moroccan comedian Hanane Fadili awarded the trophy to Abderraouf, presenting him as a legendary comedian who has instilled joy in the lives of Moroccans throughout the history of comedy in Morocco.
While he was being honored, Abderraouf expressed his appreciation for the tribute. Before his audience the humbled comedian said, “This tribute marks one of the most beautiful days of my life.”
Abderraouf seized the opportunity to express gratitude to his many fans, who have supported him throughout his career and happily followed his rise to fame. .
As part of her tribute to her peer for advancing Morocco’s comedy industry, Fadili praised Abderrouf as, , “one of the greatest comedians in the world. He was the voice of the voiceless commoners and oppressed people.”
While expressing her admiration for Abderraouf, Fadili also lambasted Moroccan producers for neglecting comedy in cinema, saying, “It is a shame on cinema’s [officials] who do not give Abderraouf what he really deserves.”
Born in Casablanca, in 1936, Abderraouf developed a passion for comedy during his childhood. Ironically, he began his career in prison, after he was arrested for joining Morocco’s National Movement.
In the 1960s, Abderraouf found himself playing the role of a naïve and ironic character inspired by his classmate’s girlfriend. In many of his roles, he would humorously appear wearing clothes too big for him. He once said, “I tried wearing different clothes but I realized that large clothes fit my sarcastic character.”
In 1975, Abderraouf founded a theatrical band and started touring popular theaters across Morocco and overseas.
In 1979, seeking opportunities to hone his artistic credentials, Abderraouf requested the Royal Armed Forces permit his band to perform at a number of Moroccan barracks for the soldiers.
“It was a real risk to perform at some [distant] barracks, but the energy of our art pushed us to reach some further place, and I am proud today for devoting my time to make Moroccan soldiers happy,” Abderraouf stated.
With respect to King Mohammed VI’s decoration for his work, Abderraoufsaid, “When the King told me that he appreciates my performances while he was decorating me with National Medal of reward as a Degree officer, I felt motivated to do my utmost to show up anew as I was during the good old days.”
