The Algerian theatrical troupe El Moudja was founded in 1978 by Djilelli Boudjemma in the fishing village of Salamandre.  It was named “El Moudja” (The Wave, in Arabic) due to its proximity to the Mediterranean. The troupe was officially designated a Cultural Association by the Algerian government  in 1986. In 2004, El Moudja was recognized by the European Union as a School for Theatrical Training (Ecole de Formation Théâtrale).