World-renowned Arabic language opera ‘Antar & Abla 'makes its UAE debut in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Abu Dhabi is set to host a landmark cultural performance as the world-renowned Arabic-language opera 'Antar & Abla' makes its UAE debut.Staged by the UAE by Bidaya Media, formerly Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company, and produced by Pico in collaboration with Opera Lebanon, this landmark production aims to reshape the Arab artistic landscape through a powerful fusion of heritage and innovation.The performance of 'Antar & Abla' will take place from December 9 to 14, 2025, at the International Tennis Centre in Zayed Sports City.Set under the stars, this original Arabic-language opera by Opera Lebanon blends classical operatic vocal techniques with state-of-the-art technology to deliver an immersive cultural experience.Featuring music composed by Maestro Maroun Al-Rahi and a libretto by Antoine Maalouf, the production promises a powerful fusion of storytelling, heritage and innovation. Audiences in Abu Dhabi will witness a live symphonic orchestra and richly choreographed stage performance enhanced by projections, advanced lighting and digital scenography.Adding a unique cultural layer, Shaolin Monks will perform choreographed martial arts sequences woven into the narrative - symbolising an artistic dialogue between East and West. Their participation also marks 40 years of diplomatic relations between the UAE and China, reinforcing the UAE's role as a global meeting point of cultures.The result is a powerful retelling of the legendary love story of 'Antar & Abla' - reimagined for modern audiences through the lens of innovation and cultural pride.Since its world premiere at Casino du Liban in 2016, 'Antar & Abla' has toured several Arab countries, including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Oman. In 2024, the opera received the prestigious Mohammed bin Rashid Award for the Arabic Language in the category of 'Best Cultural or Artistic Work Serving the Arabic Language', celebrating its role in amplifying Arabic within the world of fine arts.Farid Al-Rahi, General Director and CEO of Opera Lebanon, said: 'We are honoured to present 'Antar & Abla 'in Abu Dhabi, a city that has established itself as a global centre for cultural innovation and high art. This performance is more than a milestone - it's a vivid encounter between heritage and modern identity, brought to life in the UAE's capital of creativity.'The inclusion of Shaolin monks adds a unique cultural layer to the opera, embodying the values of openness and diversity that define the UAE.'
Audiences can expect an extraordinary evening where music meets poetry, technology meets history, and love meets heroism. More than just a performance, 'Antar & Abla' in Abu Dhabi will be a celebration of Arab culture on a global stage.
Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
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