I want to spread joy in Egypt

Egyptian superstar Laila Elwi Cairo - Shima Mekawi Egyptian superstar Laila Elwi is frustrated at the violence that has rocked Egypt in recent days and hopes her work can bring joy to the country, the award-winning actress told Arab Today. Laila expressed her dismay at the number of young Egyptians who have been killed, both among soldiers and members of the Muslim Brotherhood. But the star was optimistic about the future, saying she thought better things were on the way for Egypt. Laila also shared with Arab Today her enthusiasm about her latest TV series "Laila's Wedding", which she said had earned positive feedback. This was despite the cast and crew preparing and filming the serial in record time, she added. The actress, who has over 70 films under her belt, said she sought to bring cheer to Egyptians at a time of crisis, describing “Laila’s Wedding” as an attempt “to restore the social-romantic serial which has been absent from the screen for many years.” She praised the performance of Syrian actor Fares Said, whose hard work she said she appreciated during the series. Responding to a critic who said the series relies too heavily on music, Laila said the soundtrack – played by a “young” band, to “express the views of the youth in a different way”, and Tunisian vocalist Ghalia Ben Ali – “added rather than took away from the work”. “Ghalia Benali’s voice really surprised those who hadn’t heard her before with its unique sound”, she added.