Saudi Opera “Zarqa Al-Yamama” Makes Historic Debut
In a groundbreaking move for Saudi culture, officials unveiled details of the highly anticipated “Zarqa Al-Yamama” opera, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia and the largest Arabic-language opera to date.
Scheduled to premiere on April 25 and run until May 4 at the King Fahd Cultural Center in Riyadh, the Theater and Performing Arts Commission made the announcement at a press conference.
Sultan Al-Bazei, CEO of the commission, described the opera as a significant milestone for Saudi culture, blending iconic narratives and cultural heritage with world-class production standards.
After years of meticulous work, Al-Bazei expressed pride in the careful development of every aspect of the new production.
Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan has been actively involved in overseeing the opera’s progress, providing crucial support and guidance.
The opera was officially launched on Feb. 16 in London, with a ceremony attended by Saudi and international creatives involved in the production.
Al-Bazei highlighted that “Zarqa Al-Yamama” is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula, offering a poignant portrayal of ancient history and contemporary struggles while hinting at a hopeful future.
Featuring renowned figures in the Saudi music scene, including writer Saleh Zamanan, the opera will showcase the talents of several Saudi artists.
The musical pieces will be performed by the Dresden Sinfoniker Orchestra, accompanied by the Czech Philharmonic Choir providing distinctive vocals, under the direction of Swiss director Daniele Finzi Pasca.
International composer Lee Bradshaw crafted the tunes for this epic narrative, blending traditional elements with a modern touch.
The commission also recognized its main partners, the Roshan Group and the King Fahd Cultural Center, as well as official partners Banque Saudi Fransi, Saudi Signs Media, and Genesis Motor, along with sponsors Nova, Spirit of Saudi Arabia, and hospitality partners Bateel and Ramada by Wyndham.
Through “Zarqa Al-Yamama,” the Theater and Performing Arts Commission aims to elevate Saudi cultural achievements, showcase local talent, and revitalize timeless stories from the Arabian Peninsula in a contemporary and innovative manner.
In alignment with the goals of the National Strategy for Culture under Vision 2030, the opera seeks to foster cultural exchange on an international scale.