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Monday, Oct 13, 2025

Saudi Arabia Set to Host World's Largest Arabic Grand Opera 'Zarqa Al Yamama'

Saudi Arabia Set to Host World's Largest Arabic Grand Opera 'Zarqa Al Yamama'

Saudi Arabia is set to debut "Zarqa Al Yamama," the world's grandest Arabic opera. As the Kingdom's first and most significant opera, it will run in Riyadh from April into early May.
The opera, based on a pre-Islamic tale, follows a visionary woman's attempt to save her tribe from an attack.

The musical score is by Lee Bradshaw, with a libretto by Saudi writer Saleh Zamanan. The opera promises a rich cultural experience with its orchestral and choral music, profound narrative, and dynamic performances, led by the esteemed mezzo-soprano, Dame Sarah Connolly, in the lead role.

The cast also includes both Saudi and international talents, mirroring the advancement of Saudi Arabia's music program.

The production involves the Dresdner Sinfoniker and the Czech Philharmonic Choir, under the direction of renowned stage director Daniele Finzi Pasca, known for his engaging productions and special effects.

Sultan Al-Bazie, the head of the Theatre and Performing Arts Commission, and the librettist, Saleh Zamanan, both hailed the opera as a transformative event for Saudi culture, projecting a hope-filled fusion of historical and modern Arab narratives.
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