Multitalented doesn’t begin to describe Ahmed Moneka’s artistic reach. He’s a Renaissance man of the arts world. Moneka arrived in Toronto as a refugee from Iraq after appearing in a film about gay rights. He’s established himself in the Canadian theater community as an actor and writer, including helping to write the 2026 musical production It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken with members of the Tragically Hip. Meanwhile, his interest in music is far more than a hobby as his sophomore album Kanzafula earned a Juno nod last year.

Moneka grew up in Baghdad and his music draws on his Afro Sufi heritage providing a dizzying array of influences including jazz, funk and soul infused with African grooves and Arabic folk melodies. He leads an all-star global ensemble that has performed across North and South America as well as tours in Africa and Asia.

Given his theatrical pedigree, it’s not surprising that his songs come with cinematic imagery to go with his simple but evocative melodies. Moneka offers a joyful and transcendent sound that will surely bring festival audiences to their feet, smiling almost as much as he does as they embrace the grooves.

- Sean Myers