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INTERNATIONAL OPERA FESTIVAL 

IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
Nov. 2 to 4, 2023

The second edition of the International Opera Festival is set to grace Riyadh from Nov. 2 to 4, 2023. Hosted at the prestigious Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, the three-day festival promises a spectacular showcase of various opera performances and an exhibition featuring iconic pieces from the world of opera. This musical extravaganza will bring together a constellation of the most renowned opera artists, with the distinguished presence of the World Philharmonic Orchestra.

 

A highlight of the festival includes an exhibition showcasing the opera productions of the legendary Franco Zeffirelli. The event aims to captivate music lovers of all ages and attract attention from local and international celebrities in the music world.

 

The vision behind the International Opera Festival is to establish an annual international event celebrating opera as a distinctive and timeless musical form. By presenting opera to local talents and diverse audiences, the Music Commission seeks to elevate it as a symbol of arts and culture.

 

The festival not only aims to support the music sector but also to enrich local culture and foster a deeper understanding of global musical traditions.

erformers rehearsing for an upcoming opera, demonstrating their dedication and artistry in preparation for the festival." Ima
A distinguished conductor passionately leading the orchestra during a captivating opera performance at the festival.
Audience members dressed in formal attire, enjoying the elegance and sophistication of the International Opera Festival.
Beautifully decorated venue for the International Opera Festival, creating an enchanting atmosphere for attendees

INTERNATIONAL OPERA FESTIVAL 

IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
18.06 - 20.06.2022

Saudi Arabia hosted its first ever International Opera Festival from June 18 to June 20 with several globally renowned artists participating in the event. For the first time international opera shows and performances from around the world were displayed in the Kingdom.

The festival’s lineup includes Australian-American lyric soprano Danielle de Niese, Armenian baritone Gevorg Hakobyan, and Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja, with the pioneering Saudi performers being Sawsan Albahiti, the Kingdom’s first professional opera singer; Khayran Al-Zahrani, Saudi Arabia’s first male opera singer; and Mostafa Shirah. Each day of the concert during the three-day festival featured a two-hour performance by a Saudi singer paired with an international opera singer beginning with Albahiti and Calleja on Saturday, who performed an assortment of classic opera pieces. The event will also include a special exhibition for opera with classic arts and associated possessions, such as fashion, and opera history with its musical instruments.

Opera performers backstage preparing for their roles, showcasing the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into each production
Detailed costumes worn by performers, highlighting the intricate design work for the International Opera Festival.
 collage of festival highlights showcasing key moments, performances, and artists from the International Opera Festival.
A stunning opera performance featuring talented singers and elaborate staging at the International Opera Festival.
Audience members engaged in discussions about the opera after a performance, sharing their experiences from the festival
The orchestra in full swing, providing the musical foundation for an enchanting opera performance at the festival
he beautifully lit exterior of the opera house hosting the International Opera Festival
Guests enjoying the opening night of the International Opera Festival, filled with excitement and anticipation.
A renowned opera singer captivating the audience with their powerful vocals during a performance at the festival.
An enthusiastic audience applauding a breathtaking opera performance, celebrating the artistry showcased at the festival
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