Mohamed Touri — Chansonnier, Actor, and Martyr of Algerian Theatre

Mohamed Touri — born Mohamed Besnassi — was born on 9 November 1914 in Douirette, a neighborhood of Blida. He became one of the most gifted Algerian artists of his generation: a chansonnier, comedian, and theatre actor whose art was inseparable from his patriotism.

Education and Early Artistic Life

Touri studied at El Houda school in Blida before continuing his education at El Madrassa El Houra in Constantine. Upon returning to Blida in 1928, he immediately immersed himself in the city's theatrical and musical life.

He joined the theatre troupe El-Ikbal and the El Hayat association, where he collaborated with some of the great names of Algerian cultural life, including Dahmane Ben Achour and Mohamed Benguergoura.

The Algiers Opera

In 1947, Touri joined the Arabic section of the Algiers Opera under the legendary director Mahieddine Bachtarzi — one of the founding figures of modern Algerian theatre. In this prestigious setting, he further developed his craft across theatre, film, and comedic song.

His performances were marked by warmth, wit, and a deep connection to Algerian popular culture. His comedic songs in particular remain touchstones of mid-century Algerian entertainment.

Arrest and Martyrdom

Mohamed Touri's deep nationalist convictions and his connections to leaders of the Algerian independence movement placed him in the crosshairs of the French colonial administration.

In 1956 — with the revolution in full force — he was arrested by French authorities. He was imprisoned in Serkadji Prison in Algiers, where he died on 29 April 1959.

He was 44 years old.

Legacy

In recognition of his artistic legacy and his ultimate sacrifice, the Blida Municipal Theatre was named in his honor. It stands today as a living memorial to an artist who gave his stage, his songs, and finally his life to Algeria.