Featured Image: The Saudi Theater and Performing Arts Commission
The Saudi Theater and Performing Arts Commission has launched an international ticketing website for Zarqa Al Yamama, the first-ever grand opera produced by Saudi Arabia.
The opera will debut on April 25 at the 2,700-capacity Fahad Cultural Centre, Riyadh, and will run for a series of 10 performances until May 4.
The libretto was created by Saudi poet and playwright Saleh Zamanan, with the piece brought to life by classical music specialists under the creative direction of Ivan Vukcevic. The original musical score has been composed by Australian Lee Bradshaw, while the principal vocal cast will be led by world-acclaimed mezzo soprano Dame Sarah Connolly.
Connolly will share the stage with Saudi artists Khayran Alzahrani, Reman Obi and Sawsan Al-Bahiti.
The opera will be performed by orchestra Dresdner Sinfoniker, led by conductor Pablo González, and featuring vocal accompaniments by the Czech Philharmonic Choir.
“We are delighted to share this historic moment in Saudi Arabia’s cultural journey with international audiences. It is with great excitement that we introduce Zarqa Al Yamama,” said Sultan Al-Bazie, chief executive of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission.
“It is with great excitement that we introduce Zarqa Al Yamama, and welcome audiences from around the globe to discover this captivating tale. Zarqa Al Yamama represents a phenomenal opportunity to showcase the deep national heritage of the Saudi art scene, foster international cultural exchange, and launch a new, exciting generation of Saudi talent onto the world stage.”
Tickets for Zarqa Al Yamama will start from 100 SAR (£20/€25/$26).
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