The Theater and Performing Arts Commission has held a press conference in Riyadh to unveil new details of the upcoming Zarqa Al Yamama – the first Saudi opera and the largest opera in Arabic.
Premiering on Thursday 25th April at the King Fahad Cultural Center in Riyadh, Zarqa Al Yamama will run for a total of ten performances before the final show on Saturday 4th May.
The opera’s sponsors were celebrated during the press conference, attended by a significant number of artists, theatre professionals and journalists. Mr. Sultan Al-Bazie, CEO of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, stated: “The new production elevates Arabian Peninsula folklore to new heights, presenting it in a highly aesthetic artistic context. The production enhances its impact on the audience by adapting a familiar story and incorporating details derived from historical narratives. Additionally, a distinguished group of Saudi and international artists deliver a unique operatic performance, further enriching the experience.” Al-Bazie added, “The story revolves around the infamous Zarqa Al-Yamama and her attempts to warn and guide her tribe (Jadis) from an impending invasion.”
Al-Bazie also expressed his deep appreciation of the keen interest of His Highness Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, in the production of this exceptional opera since its announcement on Thursday 15th February in London. This event was attended by key figures from the opera world, in addition to the Saudi and international artists involved in the production of Zarqa Al Yamama.
Al-Bazie explained that Zarqa Al Yamama draws its story, spirit and language from the culture of the Arabian Peninsula – a region with most of its land area and civilization centres within Saudi Arabia’s borders: “The opera tells the tale of a deep tragedy, whose storylines are not devoid of a glimpse of hope.”
Zarqa Al Yamama will highlight the work of prominent Saudi-born talents, most notably the librettist, Saudi poet and playwright Saleh Zamanan, as well as singers Reemaz Oqbi, Khayran Al Zahrani and Sawsan Al Bahiti. They will share the stage with several prestigious international opera performers led by renowned mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly and including Aleksandar Stefanoski, Amelia Wawrzon, Serena Farnocchia, Paride Cataldo and George Von Bergen, under the creative direction of Ivan Vukcevic.
