CAIRO, 14 December 2005 — Young Egyptian actress Hala Shiha has shocked the entertainment world by announcing her retirement for the second time in her career. The actress has also recommitted herself to wearing the Islamic headdress, the hijab, and stressed that her decision is final.

Hala said she has moved back to her family’s home, and has refused to make further comment regarding her sudden decision.

This marks the second retirement for the actress. The first time was in 2003, before she agreed to star last year in the television drama “Raji’lik Ya Iskindiria” (I’m Coming Back to You Alexandria)

Ajram Chosen to Play Egyptian Legend Asmahan

BEIRUT, 14 December 2005 — Syrian director Nabil Al Maleh is working on a new television drama that revolves around the life of Egyptian singer Asmahan, the first feature about the mysterious artist.

Nabil said that he has chosen Lebanese singer Nancy Ajram for the role of Asmahan because he feels she shares many of the legendary singer’s characteristics: Both spontaneous and innocent. Ajram has not yet accepted the role.

On a different note, Ajram signed a two-year contract with Damas Jewelry and the International Gold Council to be their official spokesperson and to model their products. The new campaign is called “Farfasha and Romance” (Fun and Romance), and the singer will launch several new products for the company that symbolizes youth and beauty.

The singer was thrilled to sign the new contract, but refused to reveal any of its financial details. The singer stated that she, like any other woman, is infatuated with jewelry and feels it is an essential element of a woman’s beauty.

Alissa to Perform in Muscat

BEIRUT, 14 December 2005 — Lebanese singer Alissa is scheduled to hold a grand performance tomorrow in Muscat, Oman.

Sources reveal that the singer may release her new album, produced by ‘Rotana’ between New Year’s Eve and the Muslim holiday Eid Al-Adha.

Alissa had already chosen the cover for the album with the assistance of American director Mathews Claimer. Claimer introduced Alissa to new ways of designing album covers that increase their success.

The singer is scheduled to hold a New Year’s Eve concert at the Rotana Hotel in Dubai.