Long before his memorable performance at the ancient Theatre of Carthage in July 2009, Charles Aznavour had already established a connection with Tunisia. In 1955, the French singer of Armenian descent performed in Tunis, at the Casino du Belvédère. An episode from the early years of his career, it offers an interesting glimpse into the cultural and musical exchanges between Tunisia and the international music scene of the post-war period.

Charles Aznavour during the 1955 gala at the Casino du Belvédère in Tunis.

A gala at the Casino du Belvédère

One of the most valuable records documenting Aznavour’s early connection with Tunisia comes from the French Diplomatic Archives.

Their photographic catalogue preserves a reference dated 25 May 1955, titled « Gala Hot Point au casino Belvédère. Aznavour ». The collection contains 23 photographs associated with the event.

This archival record provides a documented trace of Aznavour’s presence in Tunis. It also places his performance within the cultural life of a capital where music halls, casinos and entertainment venues welcomed performers from different backgrounds.

The Casino du Belvédère was among the venues associated with Tunisian nightlife at the time. Its programme reflected the diversity of musical entertainment available in the capital during the 1950s.

Charles Aznavour at the beginning of his career

In 1955, Charles Aznavour was not yet the international icon recognised by millions of people around the world. Born in Paris on 22 May 1924 to Armenian parents, he had spent years working in cabarets and performing venues while gradually building his reputation.

His career was entering an important period of development. After years of performances and songwriting, he was beginning to attract wider attention in France and beyond.

The year 1955 was particularly significant. He performed at the Olympia in Paris as part of a programme featuring jazz clarinettist Sidney Bechet, from 1 to 21 June. His song Sur ma vie also contributed to his growing recognition.

His appearance in Tunis therefore belongs to an important chapter of his early career, when he was still establishing himself as a performer and songwriter.

The 1955 Casino du Belvédère gala, an episode in Tunisia's international music history.

Charles Aznavour and the musical history of Tunis during the 1950s.

Tunis and its cultural scene in the 1950s

During the 1950s, Tunis had a lively cultural and entertainment scene shaped by theatres, cinemas, cabarets, casinos and concert venues.

The Casino du Belvédère was part of this environment, welcoming performances and events that connected local audiences with international artists.

Aznavour’s presence in Tunis illustrates the movement of French-speaking performers across the Mediterranean and the role of Tunisia within these cultural circuits.

The historical context is also important. In May 1955, Tunisia was still under the French Protectorate. The country would achieve independence on 20 March 1956, less than a year after the documented gala.

From Tunis to Carthage: a memory revisited 54 years later

Perhaps the most fascinating part of this story came more than five decades later.

On 21 July 2009, Charles Aznavour returned to Tunisia for the 45th edition of the International Festival of Carthage. At 85, he performed at the ancient Roman amphitheatre before a full audience.

The evening featured some of his most celebrated songs, including La Bohème, Mourir d’aimer and Que c’est triste Venise.

According to the Tunisian newspaper Leaders, in its report published on 22 July 2009, Aznavour returned to the stage after the audience’s applause and performed a song a cappella, recalling that he had sung it in Tunisia at the beginning of his career, at the Casino de Tunis.

The moment gave the concert a particular historical significance. Fifty-four years after his early performances in the capital, Aznavour was once again standing before a Tunisian audience, this time as one of the most celebrated voices in French music.

Historical sources:

French Diplomatic Archives, photographic collection, reference 51TU/1/11, Gala Hot Point au casino Belvédère. Aznavour, 25 May 1955.
Leaders, Le tapis volant de Charles, 22 July 2009.

Tunisian music history