Dubai Opera announces its 2023-2024 Season
Season opens with Tchaikovsky’s immortal “Swan Lake” ballet
(PRESS RELEASE ) Dubai, September 7, 2023: Dubai Opera, the premier performing arts centre in the United Arab Emirates and a jewel in the crown of Emaar, one of the world’s most esteemed and valued integrated real estate development firms, is thrilled to announce the inauguration of its new season, marking a continuous journey of artistic evolution since 2016.
Since its inception, Dubai Opera has emerged as the epicentre for performing arts in the Middle East, radiating cultural excellence and welcoming audiences globally. Celebrating its 7th anniversary with more than 40 breathtaking performances, it has highlighted the elegance of operas, ballets, concerts, and musicals, enchanting millions of hearts.
“As we embark on the new season, we are filled with immense pride in the remarkable artistic diversity that characterises our lineup of performances and productions, catering to the entire community and bringing together prestigious companies and celebrated artists from around the world onto the stage of our exceptional venue,” said Dr Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera.
“Dubai Opera continues to lead as an iconic ‘House of Cultures’, a vibrant and innovative hub, a meeting point where languages and cultures from across the globe intersect and meld daily, delivering a truly unparalleled and memorable experience to all audiences.”
Dubai Opera is a purpose-built multi-format theatre with an auditorium of 2,000 seats. Image: Dubai Opera
Dubai Opera 2023-2024 Season highlights
INAUGURAL GALAS
Swan Lake and Madama Butterfly
The season leaps to a start with Tchaikovsky’s immortal ballet, “Swan Lake,” showcased from September 8-10, 2023, followed by Puccini’s heartrending operatic narrative, “Madama Butterfly,” on September 12-13, 2023.
The esteemed Hungarian State Ballet and Hungarian State Opera bring these masterpieces to life. Both performances will offer a unique chance to discover the exceptional talent of one of Eastern Europe’s premier musical institutions, which seldom embarks on tours beyond the borders of Hungary.
Swan Lake will present the iconic and unforgettable choreography of Rudi Van Dantzig, one of the greatest choreographers of the twentieth century. Conducting the orchestra for this special occasion will be Gábor Hontvári, a well-established baton across Europe who has had significant debuts at prestigious venues such as the Helbphilharmonie and Concertgebouw.
The renowned opera Madama Butterfly will be presented in a captivating new production helmed by director Miklós Gábor Kerényi. His shows have gained international acclaim at famous theatres in London, Salzburg, and Jerusalem.
The soloists, orchestra, and choir of the Hungarian State Opera will be led by János Kovács, one of Hungary’s most respected conductors with international recognition. Kovács has served as an assistant to Pierre Boulez in Bayreuth and has worked as a guest at esteemed institutions from Berlin to Tokyo.
Uniquely, the season unfolds with dual opening galas on the 8th and 12th, offering Dubai’s community a chance to revel in an evening of unmatched elegance and artistry.
TRIUMPHANT DEBUTS
Teatro alla Scala Orchestra’s UAE Premiere
On December 1, 2023, Dubai Opera will mark an extraordinary cultural
milestone: the historic debut of the celebrated Orchestra of the Teatro alla
Scala in Milan set to present a memorable gala concert titled “A Concert for
Tomorrow.”
The show aims to unite audiences in a powerful display of solidarity and
hope in support of the global effort to protect the planet and safeguard the
well-being of future generations.
Timed during the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), this
exclusive artistic event will feature a spectacular repertoire by Italian
maestros such as Verdi Puccini and Mascagni. Conducted by Michele Gamba,
renowned for his close association with La Scala and recent triumphs in New
York and Washington, the event stars world-renowned soprano Aida Garifullina
and acclaimed tenor Piero Pretti.
The event is supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
International Cooperation and the Italian Ministry of Culture and exclusively
sponsored by Plenitude, an affiliate of the Italian energy company Eni.
“I am particularly delighted that the La Scala Orchestra will be a guest of the
Dubai Opera for the first time on December 1,” said Dominique Meyer, CEO and
Artistic Director of Teatro alla Scala Milan.
“On the podium, we will have Michele Gamba, a conductor who is still young
but has already conducted several productions at La Scala, and internationally
renowned singers Aida Garifullina and Piero Pretti. The programme includes works
by Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini, whose death centenary we will celebrate
next year. These composers represent the tradition and identity of our theatre,
and the La Scala Orchestra performs them with an unmistakable sound and
passion.
“Equally important is the occasion of this concert: La Scala shares the
concern about the risks of global warming and is committed to a concrete plan
of energy efficiency and rationalisation of resources that has already begun to
yield important results. We are excited about the performance and look forward
to seeing you there”.
MusicAeterna & Teodor Currentzis in the Middle East
In a groundbreaking regional first, MusicAeterna, one of the world’s most
celebrated ensembles that constantly pushes the boundaries of its creative
powers, will perform two concerts on April 27-28, 2024, dedicated to
Tchaikovsky and Wagner. The ensemble is led by world-class conductor Teodor
Currentzis, regarded as one of the most fascinating, respected, and musically
extraordinary figures of the past five decades.
Rome Opera Ballet’s UAE Debut
The Rome Opera Ballet, featuring Director and étoile Eleonora Abbagnato,
takes centre stage in the UAE for the first time on May 25-26, 2024, with the
exceptional performance “Les deux nuits,” complete with Dior-crafted costumes
featuring the exquisite and opulent designs by Maria Grazia Chiuri, Dior’s
creative director since 2016. These beautiful Dior designs exemplify the
influence of haute couture and artistic expression on contemporary culture.
NEW YEAR’S DAY GALA
A Cultural Symphony for New Beginnings
Inspired by Vienna’s iconic New Year concerts, Dubai Opera presents its
version on January 1, 2024. The event stars the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra
under Music Director Julian Rachlin, a highly respected Austrian violinist and
conductor, and features a diverse cast of singers from the Middle East. This
cultural symphony heralds a new year of tolerance, inclusivity, and harmony.
BALLETS
The Nutcracker
From December 15-17, 2023, the Ballet Theatre and State Opera Orchestra of
Astana (Kazakhstan) offer an enchanting rendition of “The
Nutcracker,” inviting the Dubai Opera audience into a realm of magic.
La Scala Theatre Ballet School Debut
Dubai Opera’s ballet series receives an extra dash of allure as the La Scala
Theatre Ballet School from Milan, one of the globe’s preeminent classical
ballet academies, makes its Dubai Opera debut on February 17-18, 2024. This
prestigious academy has produced renowned A-list stars such as Roberto Bolle
and Jacopo Tisci, both former Bolshoi principal dancers.
MUSICALS
Matilda
For the first time in the GCC
region, the enchanting world of Roald Dahl’s “Matilda” takes the
stage from October 3-15, 2023, offering a blend of whimsical storytelling and
memorable tunes that promise to charm audiences of all ages.
The Phantom of the Opera
Back by popular demand, “The
Phantom of the Opera” will enrapture spectators with its soul-stirring
music and compelling narrative from February 22 to March 10, 2024.
THE INAUGURAL FILM MUSIC WEEK
The curtain rises on the
first-ever Film Music Week presented by Dubai Opera, a vibrant celebration
dedicated to honouring iconic film composers.
Launching the series on May 9-10, 2024, is the “Official Concert
Celebration of Ennio Morricone,” paying tribute to one of cinema’s most
revered composers, directed by Andrea Morricone, the late maestro’s son.
Following this are showings of two blockbuster films: “Star Wars: A New
Hope” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of The Black
Pearl” on May 10 and 11, respectively. These screenings will accompany
live performances of John Williams’ and Hans Zimmers’ iconic scores.
The week concludes with a nod to the unparalleled talent of Charlie Chaplin.
Audiences will enjoy a screening of a Chaplin classic, The Kid, celebrating its
score composed by Chaplin himself.
CONCERTS
Gilberto Gil
At 81, the legendary Brazilian artist Gilberto Gil brings his ‘AQUELE ABRAÇO
TOUR’ to Dubai Opera on September 29. Gil’s influence is monumental, with a
Grammy-laden career spanning over 50 years and a transformative stint as
Brazil’s Minister of Culture. Joined by his family members on stage, the
evening promises a vibrant musical journey that honours this global icon.
David Garrett
Internationally acclaimed violinist David Garrett performs on October 26
with his ‘ICONIC’ tour. Melding classical mastery with modern flair, Garrett
has redefined the violin’s role in music, delivering an evening where classical
meets contemporary.
Kenny Garrett
Jazz virtuoso Kenny Garrett performs on October 28, unveiling his latest
album, ‘Sounds from the Ancestors.’ With a career interlaced with legends like
Duke Ellington and Miles Davis, Garrett weaves ancestral rhythms into modern
jazz, offering a multi-generational auditory experience.
Ali Sethi
Acclaimed singer Ali Sethi takes the stage on November 11, bringing his
unique blend of traditional South Asian melodies and modern rhythms. Dubbed
“stealthily subversive” by The New Yorker and featured on TIME’s 100
Next list, Sethi’s performance promises a harmonious blend of humour and
soulful storytelling.
Jethro Tull
Rock legend Jethro Tull captivates on November 24, 2023, blending innovative
flute melodies with iconic hits like ‘Aqualung.’ This evening will be a
masterclass in the evolution of progressive rock.
Tinariwen
On December 12, Tinariwen, a collective of Tuareg musicians from the Sahara
region of northern Mali. They are considered pioneers of desert blues, a blend
of West African traditional music and electrified rock’n’roll, directly evoking
this feeling of longing.
Matteo Bocelli
On December 21, Matteo Bocelli, a rising star from the famed Bocelli
lineage, brings his unique blend of classical and contemporary music, promising
an evening of passionate and modern lyricism.
Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells
Step into a sonic journey with Mike Oldfield’s “Tubular Bells” on
January 12, 2024. Celebrating an album that revolutionised progressive rock,
this evening offers an auditory tapestry that spans decades.
Ludovico Einaudi
The mesmerising Ludovico Einaudi returns for a three-night engagement from
January 19-21, 2024. With previous shows sold out, anticipate another
captivating evening of ethereal piano compositions.
Alice Sara Ott – Echoes of Life
On April 24, 2024, pianist Alice Sara Ott will transport audiences through a
vivid emotional spectrum with ‘Echoes of Life,’ showcasing her contemporary
interpretations of classical music.
Incognito
On April 25, 2024, the legendary British band Incognito will enliven the
stage with their trademark fusion of jazz, funk, and soul, offering an
electrifying experience that transcends generations.
Chris Botti
Grammy-winning trumpet virtuoso Chris Botti performs on May 19, 2024,
delivering an evening oscillating between poignant ballads and vibrant jazz
tunes.
CHAMBER MUSIC
Gidon Kremer & Kremerata Baltica
Concluding this chapter, Gidon Kremer and Kremerata Baltica perform on May
3, 2024, elevating the ageless beauty of classical chamber music.
INTERNATIONAL JAZZ DAY
A Special Concert with Ravi Coltrane
Celebrate International Jazz Day with saxophonist Ravi Coltrane on April 30,
2024. Bearing the Coltrane legacy, Ravi offers a modern twist on traditional
jazz themes, creating an innovative musical narrative.
THEATRE
Macbeth
Dive into the dark realms of human ambition with a stirring performance of
“Macbeth,” produced by English Touring Theatre, slated for November
3-5, 2023. This Shakespearean tragedy unfolds with a gravitas that only live
theatre can offer.
Slava’s Snow Show
The enchanting “Slava’s Snow Show ” is kickstarting the theatre
series, ” from December 8-10, 2023. This whimsical performance promises a
world awash in laughter and heartfelt emotion.
The Little Prince
Experience the magic with an imaginative adaptation of Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry’s timeless classic, “The Little Prince,” from January
26-28, 2024. Prepare to be transported into a universe filled with
philosophical insights and wonder.
Dubai Comedy Festival
Dubai Opera hosts must-see external events aligning with its commitment to
promoting diverse creative arts. Notably, the venue will be the setting for the
eagerly awaited Dubai Comedy Festival, brought to you by Dubai’s Department of
Economy and Tourism.
PARTNERSHIPS & COLLABORATIONS
Fostering Cultural Synergy through Strategic Collaboration
In alignment with its aspiration to be a cultural hub for the Middle East
and beyond, Dubai Opera has formed collaborative alliances with Dubai’s
Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority
(Dubai Culture).
These partnerships catalyse the regional artistic ecosystem and reinforce
ties with local communities. Through various ventures, including music
festivals, educational initiatives, theatrical performances, and workshops,
these synergistic collaborations aim to celebrate Dubai’s rich cultural
heritage, engage the community meaningfully, and deepen cultural roots.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part
of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “Our strategic
collaboration with Dubai Opera exemplifies DFRE’s steadfast commitment to
creating a dynamic relationship between culture, economic growth, and events
including renowned live Arabic performances and award-winning comedy acts. This
partnership is not only about DFRE’s support of the arts sector. Still, it is
also a strategic endeavour that amplifies Dubai’s global appeal by offering an
unparalleled blend of cultural experiences.
“Dubai Opera, with its carefully curated season of opera, ballet, concerts,
and theatre productions, captures our vision of Dubai as a destination where
diverse cultures come together. This collaboration highlights our dedication to
showcasing Dubai’s identity as a vibrant cultural hub while simultaneously
fostering economic growth. At DFRE, we view this partnership as a pivotal step
towards continuing to position Dubai as a world-class culturally enriched city,
setting the stage for an exciting future where culture, entertainment and
events seamlessly intertwine.”
Dr Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at
Dubai Culture, emphasised the role of arts in expanding cultural tourism and
enriching Dubai’s creative landscape.
He highlighted Dubai Culture’s commitment to nurturing artistic initiatives
that strengthen the emirate’s cultural and creative industries.
Bin Kharbash praised Dubai Culture’s and Dubai Opera’s partnership, stating,
“This collaboration is highly valued and reflects our dedication to
supporting performing arts and cultural events in the emirate. Through this, we
aim to provide a platform that fosters innovation in the cultural sector and
enables local talent to express their artistic visions to the public, utilising
Dubai’s cultural and heritage assets.”
Lullaby Project: Uniting Communities Through the Power of Music
In an unprecedented partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute,
which creates visionary programmes that embody Carnegie Hall’s
commitment to music education, making great music accessible to as many people
as possible, Dubai Opera is proud to launch the Lullaby Project for the first
time in the Middle East. This social initiative connects musicians with
communities to craft lullabies for vulnerable families, using music as a
universal catalyst for connection and harmony.
This project pairs new and expecting parents and caregivers with
professional artists to write and sing personal lullabies for their babies,
supporting maternal health, aiding childhood development, and strengthening the
bond between parent and child.
“We are excited to welcome Dubai Opera to the Lullaby Project’s ever-growing
network of partners,” said Tiffany Ortiz, Director of Early Childhood Programs
for Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute.
“Over the past twelve years, we’ve witnessed the Lullaby Project’s
meaningful impact on caregivers and family well-being. We’re dedicated to
bringing this programme to communities worldwide by supporting more than 50
national and international partners. Thank you to Dubai Opera and their
partners at Steinway and Sons for offering this impactful programme to families
locally.”
With this venture, Dubai Opera and its esteemed partners aim to enrich lives
and contribute positively to the region’s cultural tapestry.
Empowering the Next Generation of Performing Arts Professionals
Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to cultural advancement, Dubai Opera
collaborates with the Dubai College of Tourism to introduce an innovative
Training Programme.
This programme equips aspiring performing arts professionals with the
requisite skills and knowledge in both a theoretical and practical setting for
sound, light and stage operations, fostering a broader understanding and
appreciation for cultural diversity, thereby aligning with Dubai Opera’s ethos of
promoting global cultural harmony.
Essa Bin Hadher, General Manager of Dubai College of Tourism, said: “Career
development, skill enhancement, and increasing employability are the key
benefits of vocational education, allowing students to apply their theoretical
knowledge in practical situations and a deeper insight into their chosen
fields.
“This collaborative endeavour with Dubai Opera will enhance fundamental
world skills to support performing arts professionals to succeed in the
creative industry and resonate with the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033 goal to
integrate the next generation of talents into the workforce.
“Just as vocational education bridges theory and practice, this initiative
will also prepare students with real-world skills in the performing arts sector
and foster a broader understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity. We
believe our partnership with Dubai Opera will significantly enhance our city’s
position as an international hub for creative talents, and we are proud to be a
part of it.”
Enriching the Cultural Experience Through Technology
Further broadening its artistic horizons, Dubai Opera embraces technological
innovation through pioneering partnerships. Dubai Opera’s collaboration with
D&B audiotechnik ensures a cutting-edge auditory experience at Dubai
Opera’s studio, captivating the senses with an immersive sound system to
nurture and promote creative expression.
“A strong set of mutual goals drives our partnership with Dubai Opera: Our willingness
to explore new technological frontiers to experience many art forms. Our
commitment to developing the Middle Eastern performing arts industry into a
sustainable one is globally recognised as fostering the best talent. And,
importantly, our combined sense of unity and togetherness, working as one team
– at d&b, we call this “Wir-Gefühl,” stated Amnon Harman, CEO of
d&b audiotechnik
Furthermore, as Dubai Opera progresses in technological advancements, it has
forged a partnership with Preevue, a prominent provider of laser scanning and
3D Digital Twins for the Creative Industries. This collaboration empowers the
Creative and Production teams to accomplish numerous tasks using a virtual
model, replacing traditional in-person methods. The state-of-the-art 3D
visualisation platform further enhances the patron experience, allowing a
virtual walkthrough of seating plans for effortless booking.
“This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the global
entertainment industry, as Preevue’s state-of-the-art digital twin
technology brings innovation to one of the region’s leading performing arts
venues.
“By integrating our tools to enhance technical and production workflows and
offering our unique view-from-seat technology to the audience, we’re streamlining
the behind-the-scenes processes and enriching the customer experience. We’re
thrilled to add Dubai Opera to the list of world-class venues using our
technology,” stated Ryan Metcalfe, Managing Director of Preevue.
The venue has also joined Apple Music to offer a curated playlist for its
forthcoming 2023/24 season, heightening anticipation for an exceptional lineup
of performances.
Dubai Opera continues to receive support from the private sector. The
contributions of its sponsors, Genesis and Van Cleef & Arpels, have
enriched the artistic landscape while reinforcing the commitment to fostering
culture and the arts in the region. Their unwavering belief in Dubai Opera’s
mission underscores the immense value of creative collaboration and highlights
the profound impact of uniting for a common purpose.
Embark on a Cultural Odyssey
As the curtain rises on a new season, Dubai Opera renews its commitment to
artistic excellence, community engagement, and cultural development. We are
thrilled to showcase a range of global and local talents in music, theatre, and
beyond, all within the luxurious setting of our state-of-the-art venue. Join us
in making this season an unforgettable chapter in the continuing saga of Dubai
as a world-class cultural destination in the region.
Book tickets at dubaiopera.com and
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About Dubai Opera:
Dubai Opera is the main performing arts centre of the United Arab Emirates.
A unique venue inaugurated in 2016, Dubai Opera is the city’s only
purpose-built multi-format theatre with an auditorium of 2,000 seats and a
studio that accommodates up to 250 patrons in the heart of Downtown Dubai,
developed by Emaar.
Its mission is to serve, unify, and inspire the community of Dubai and
beyond by celebrating the world’s cultures.
Dubai Opera aims to build a more vibrant and inclusive society through
excellence in the arts, placing Dubai Opera, Dubai, and the UAE at the
forefront of the global cultural scene.
Last Updated on 11 months by News Desk 1
