Dame Sarah Connolly takes on the title role in the groundbreaking international production of Zarqa Al Yamama. This opera breathes new life into one of the most famous stories from pre-Islamic Arabia, telling the tale of the protagonist’s quest to warn the Jadis tribe of an impending army that threatens to obliterate her people.
Sultan Al-Bazie, the CEO of the Commission for Theatre and Performing Arts, expressed his honor in presenting the legend of Zarqa Al Yamama to the world, using one of their most beloved national stories as a catalyst for the cultural prosperity of Saudi Arabia. This production represents a triumph in international cultural exchange and the melding of exceptional talent from Saudi Arabia with leading singers and technicians from around the globe. They are thrilled to debut the first performance in a new series of artistic experiences inspired by the rich tapestry of Saudi folklore.
Zarqa Al Yamama is the first grand opera to feature both international and local artists, with an exclusively Arabic libretto penned by acclaimed Saudi poet Saleh Zamanan. The original musical composition was adapted by Australian composer Lee Bradshaw, with creative direction provided by Ivan Vukcevic. The role of Zarqa is portrayed by world-renowned mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly, alongside prominent international artists such as Amelia Wawrzon, Serena Farnocchia, Paride Cataldo, Aleksandar Stefanoski, and George von Bergen. Among the nine main roles, three are portrayed by Saudi-born singers, including tenor Khayran Al Zahrani and sopranos Sawsan Albahiti and Reemaz Oqbi.
Under the baton of conductor Pablo González, the Dresden Symphony Orchestra, accompanied by the Brno Philharmonic Choir, brings this opera to life. The ever-evolving production and special effects were conceptualized by internationally acclaimed director Daniele Finzi Pasca.
Zarqa Al Yamama will be performed ten times, concluding on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Tickets, starting at 100 SAR / 20 £ / 26 $, can be reserved at: [insert ticket reservation link].
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Zarqa Al Yamama Premiere: An Epic International Production
Zarqa Al Yamama is not just an ordinary opera; it breaks new ground by being the first grand opera to feature both international and local artists in Saudi Arabia. This production aims to showcase the cultural wealth of Saudi folklore and represents a triumph in international cultural exchange. The CEO of the Commission for Theatre and Performing Arts, Sultan Al-Bazie, highlights the significance of using one of Saudi Arabia’s beloved national stories as a catalyst for the cultural prosperity of the country.
The opera’s libretto is exclusively Arabic, written by acclaimed Saudi poet Saleh Zamanan, adding a local flavor to the production. The music compositions were adapted by Australian composer Lee Bradshaw, while Ivan Vukcevic provides creative direction. The cast is led by renowned mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly, who takes on the title role of Zarqa. Other international artists, such as Amelia Wawrzon, Serena Farnocchia, Paride Cataldo, Aleksandar Stefanoski, and George von Bergen, will also grace the stage. Notably, three main roles are portrayed by Saudi-born singers, including tenor Khayran Al Zahrani and sopranos Sawsan Albahiti and Reemaz Oqbi.
The musical aspects of Zarqa Al Yamama are brought to life by the Dresden Symphony Orchestra under the baton of conductor Pablo González. They are accompanied by the Brno Philharmonic Choir, creating a powerful and emotive experience for the audience. The production values are top-notch, with internationally acclaimed director Daniele Finzi Pasca conceptualizing the ever-evolving production and special effects.
As for current market trends, the collaboration between international and local artists in Zarqa Al Yamama demonstrates a growing interest in showcasing cultural diversity in opera productions. The opera’s fusion of traditional Saudi folklore with Western artistic elements may attract a wider audience both inside and outside Saudi Arabia. This could open doors for future international collaborations and investments in the country’s performing arts scene.
In terms of forecasts, Zarqa Al Yamama holds great potential to become a milestone in the development of the Saudi Arabian entertainment industry. Its success may encourage more investment in large-scale productions, leading to the establishment of a thriving opera scene in the country.
However, there are also key challenges and controversies associated with this subject. Some may question the juxtaposition of the traditional Arabian story with Western artistic influences, fearing that it might dilute or distort the original cultural narrative. Additionally, there may be concerns about the accessibility of opera to the general population, considering the relatively high ticket prices starting at 100 SAR / 20 £ / 26 $. Ensuring broader access to such cultural experiences and promoting diversity in artistic expression are important considerations in the ongoing development of the Saudi Arabian arts landscape.
For more information and to reserve tickets for Zarqa Al Yamama, please visit the official ticket reservation page: zarqaalyamamaopera.com.