Event History

Host: Nuqat

Guest: Saqer Al-Rushoud

Reading Alberto Manguel’s writings is reading about reading itself. It is one of the few disciplines that transcends us to elevated states of bliss, for it resembles falling in love with love itself.

In his writings about reading, Manguel defends our right to be different. To him, no two readers in the same library will turn the pages of one book the same way; just like no two persons can wade through the same river in the same way. For each has their own experience with books – and in that sense, their own reading journey that captures their most authentic self.

Seminars

First: Historical Seminars

Historical Relations Between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait

Sunday, 17 February 2019 at 7:00 PM

Second: Saudi-Kuwaiti Relations Seminar

Saudi-Kuwaiti relations since its establishment until the present day

Monday, 18 February 2019 –  at 7:00 PM

Third: Entertainment Industry Seminar

Entertainment Industry relations between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait

Tuesday, 19 February 2019 – at 7:00 PM

Poetic Evening

His Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Mohammed

Wednesday, 20 February 2019 at 7:00 PM

Portraying an intimate life journey of the late Ismael Fahad Ismael, this theatrical piece delivers vignettes that take us quickly through Ismael’s struggle-ridden childhood, moving into the failures and triumphs of his youth, and reaching his final state of physical and spiritual alienation.

This work of theater attempts to dive into the philosophy of a pioneer who left behind generations of disciples and lovers, and an eternal existence throughout years to come.

A Sudanese novelist based in Cairo. He won the Naguib Mahfouz Prize for his novel Shawq Al-Darwish, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize and translated into many languages such as English, Farsi and others. He also published a novel entitled Algharaq earlier this year.

Prior to the advent of oil and the subsequent social and economic growth that resulted, Kuwait was an active prosperous port, where citizens used to depend on the sea and its diverse wealth for trading and pearl diving. Kuwait was also associated with the Arabian Sea and India, from which Kuwaitis used to export most of their goods.

Narrating the story of three centuries without oil and while depending on the sea only, Yacoub Yousef Al-Hajji will shed light on this historical era in “Monday Talks”. Dr. Al-Hajji is a former consultant to the Center of Research and Studies on Kuwait, researcher and prolific writer.

Mona Al-Shammari is a writer, drama scenarist and former journalist who started her career as a journalist at Al-Seyassah newspaper. She studied theater and drama and received the 2018 State Encouragement Award for her novel No Music in Ahmadi, and the 2017 State Encouragement Award in the short story category for Two Heads Under One Umbrella. 

Her dramatic writings include Black Kohl, White Heart, which was televised in Ramadan of 2018, and Far Wishing and No Music in Ahmadi that were televised in Ramadan of 2019.  

Our upcoming Monday Music hosts the Oriental Quartet, set to perform pieces by the legendary musician and violinist Sami Al-Shawwa.

The String Quartet

The string quartet is one of the most popular forms of classical chamber music, with many composers writing pieces for it, including Mozart, Hayden, Beethoven, and Schubert. The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre is hosting, for the first time, a quartet ensemble featuring a first violin, a second violin, a viola, and a cello, presented by virtuoso instrumentalists from France and Morocco.

The Quartet:

First Violin – Yassine Ajemaa

Second Violin – Torgomian

Viola – Jacques Borsarello

Cello – Philippe Féret

The Programme:

Antonio Vivaldi – Concerto for strings in G minor RV 152

Nicolas Dalayrac – Quartet in D Major Op.7 No. 3

Joseph Haydn – Quartet No. 39 in C Major Op. 33 No. 3

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Divertimento in D major K.136

Ludwig van Beethoven – Quartet No. 1 Op 18 N ° 1

As part of its educational goals and desire to include and provide opportunities for different age groups, the Centre offers a new experience for the youth this season, inviting them to attend “Do Re Mi” innovative classes suitable for children aged 6-12 years, in which music is used as an educational tool.

The “Do Re Mi” classes utilize music to arouse the interest of young students and introduce them to various topics in different fields such as science, history, technology, and others, and present them in an interesting, simplified, and entertaining way using musical instruments, games and singing. The classes are given by Dr. Zainab Awadh, Assistant Professor at the College of Basic Education (Department of Music Education) with a doctorate in arts with a specialization in singing.

In the Flag Square at the Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre, where many national celebrations took place, nine popular bands will meet for the first time this February for a grand performance of the Ardha dance, “Dar Al-Jemayel”. Ardha is considered one of the most important and prominent dances in the history of expressive and performance arts in the Arabian Peninsula in general and Kuwait in particular.

In the desert Ardha dance, verses are recited to motivate the warriors and prepare them for battle, where men dance with their swords in a circle amidst drumming and singing. In the marine Ardha, similar to the former in all elements except for percussions, marine drums are used, signaling for the ship to raise its flags near the shore as a salutation and expression of joy at the safety of the sailors’ return, and as families come out of their houses to see their loved ones.

Participating in this big celebration are the desert Ardha bands Awlad Amer, Al-Qasr Al-Ahmar, Al-Randi Folk Band, and Al-Jahra Folk Band, Al-Fintas Folk Band; and the marine Ardha bands Al-Mass Band, the Hamad Bin Hussein Band, Mayouf Majalli Folk Band, and Al-Amiri Folk Band.

Kuwait Jazz Collective will perform highlights from the Be-Bop era, when jazz was new, exciting, and dangerous. You’re invited to come and hear how this music influenced every performer and artist in every genre.

The 1940’s and 1950’s in the United States saw the birth of a revolutionary new music genre:  Be-Bop Jazz.  Combining the most exciting – and dangerous – elements of swing, gospel, and the blues, jazz trampled previous musical conventions and rules to give unprecedented freedom and self-expression to its performers.  The music was no longer just a vehicle for dancing, but required close listening to appreciate its novel chords, complex rhythms, and fast tempos.

In standard sextet format – six instrumentalists plus singer, The Kuwait Jazz Collective will perform Be-Bop Classics by some of the great heroes of jazz – Cannonball Adderly, Count Basie, and the great Duke Ellington, hitting some great jazz highlights and illustrating why this music electrified world culture and influenced every other art form.

KJC was formed by jazz composer Raffy Bushman, and is part of Ahmadi Music Group.

The Ahmadi Music Group is sponsored by Burgan Bank.

This season, we relive the musical intimacy of the “Jalsat” evenings in our Amphitheatre, where the audience gathers on its steps to listen to a number of singers known for their mastery in Kuwait’s folkloric arts. The first evening will be performed by Khaled Al-Mulla and Sultan Al-Moftah.

Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been uniquely distinguished for its singing sessions “Jalsat” which were filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of the golden days, who achieved great fame in those sessions and entertained us with the arts of “Sawt”, “Samri” and other authentic folk arts that we still remember in the voices of Saud Al-Rashed and Awadh Dokhi, and the stars of the seventies and eighties, Abdulkareem Abdulqader, Mustafa Ahmed, Saleh Al-Huraibi, Rashid Al-Hamali and Yousef Al-Mutref, all the way to the young singers today.

This season, we relive the musical intimacy of the “Jalsat” evenings in our Amphitheatre, where the audience gathers on its steps to listen to a number of singers known for their mastery in Kuwait’s folkloric arts. This evening will be performed by Ali Abdullah and Hamad AL-Qattan.

Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been uniquely distinguished for its singing sessions “Jalsat” which were filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of the golden days, who achieved great fame in those sessions and entertained us with the arts of “Sawt”, “Samri” and other authentic folk arts that we still remember in the voices of Saud Al-Rashed and Awadh Dokhi, and the stars of the seventies and eighties, Abdulkareem Abdulqader, Mustafa Ahmed, Saleh Al-Huraibi, Rashid Al-Hamali and Yousef Al-Mutref, all the way to the young singers today.

This season, we relive the musical intimacy of the “Jalsat” evenings in our Amphitheatre, where the audience gathers on its steps to listen to a number of singers known for their mastery in Kuwait’s folkloric arts. This evening will be performed by Fatooma and Jamal Al-Duraie.

Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been uniquely distinguished for its singing sessions “Jalsat” which were filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of the golden days, who achieved great fame in those sessions and entertained us with the arts of “Sawt”, “Samri” and other authentic folk arts that we still remember in the voices of Saud Al-Rashed and Awadh Dokhi, and the stars of the seventies and eighties, Abdulkareem Abdulqader, Mustafa Ahmed, Saleh Al-Huraibi, Rashid Al-Hamali and Yousef Al-Mutref, all the way to the young singers today.

The first concerts of February Concerts will be performed by Abadi Al-Johar and Melhem Zein, who will sing to their audience their most beautiful works at the National Theatre.
The festive month of February is not complete without the famous national holiday celebrations that have always taken place in the Centre since its launch, as it hosted the most famous Arab world stars on its stage. And as February 2022 arrives, it brings us back to those days after a long absence, with a group of beloved stars to shine in their beautiful performances for their audience, lighting up the National Theatre, starting with Abadi Al-Johar and Melhem Zein.

Fans of the Lebanese star Ragheb Alama will enjoy his presence and songs the third night of February concerts on the National Theatre, with the participation of the young Tunisian star Omaima Taleb, who will perform a selection of their most loved songs.

The festive month of February is not complete without the famous national holiday celebrations that have always taken place in the Centre since its launch, as it hosted the most famous Arab world stars on its stage. And as February 2022 arrives, it brings us back to those days after a long absence, with a group of beloved stars to shine in their beautiful performances for their audience, lighting up the National Theatre, with Ragheb Alama and Omaima Taleb.

Asma Lamnawar shines in the second night of the February Concerts with Yemeni singer Fouad Abdelwahed, who will meet with an audience that yearns for their songs at the National Theatre.

The festive month of February is not complete without the famous national holiday celebrations that have always taken place in the Centre since its launch, as it hosted the most famous Arab world stars on its stage. And as February 2022 arrives, it brings us back to those days after a long absence, with a group of beloved stars to shine in their beautiful performances for their audience, lighting up the National Theatre, with Asma Lamnawar and Fouad Abdelwahed.

Popular Folk Dance music style and Country Dance music from England, Ireland, and Scotland will be performed by Ahmadi Music Group in the Recital Hall. Dancers from the Gymnasium school will demonstrate the dances.

Since the beginning of humanity, communities have gathered to make music and dance. Every country, region, and tribe has its own signature music and dance genre. People in England, Ireland, and Scotland danced in many configurations: line dances, square dances, round dances, and Contra-Dances. And this word contra-dancing was gradually transformed to Country Dancing as it is known today. The popular spread of Country Dance music was enabled by the music technology of the violin, which spread this popular music across Europe and around the world. This music is inseparable from the violin.

The Ahmadi Music Group is sponsored by Burgan Bank.

The last night of the February concerts will be with the beloved Egyptian star Tamer Hosni and the sweet Lebanese star Yara, who will meet their audience at the National Theatre and perform their most beautiful works.

The festive month of February is not complete without the famous national holiday celebrations that have always taken place in the Centre since its launch, as it hosted the most famous Arab world stars on its stage. And as February 2022 arrives, it brings us back to those days after a long absence, with a group of beloved stars to shine in their beautiful performances for their audience, lighting up the National Theatre, with Tamer Hosni and Yara.

We invite our dear audience to an artistic picnic outdoors in the Centre’s beautiful garden, where they can witness some of our local talents in our latest event, “The Talent Show”.

In a cozy circular space, the Centre gives young talents the opportunity to play instruments and sing both eastern and western music, whether through solo performances or in small bands. “The Talent Show” is unique in its nature, as it creates a friendly and familial atmosphere similar to the intimate park gatherings, where the audience sits on comfortable bean bags and cushions to enjoy for an hour the performance of promising talents. The first talents of the show for this season are Maryam Shehab, Talal Al-Khaled, Rita Malek, and Ahmad Al-Hashem.

The word “Tape/Shareet” reminds us of the days of cassette tapes that accompanied us from the mid-seventies until the early 2000s, and it is also the title of our latest performance to be presented by the JACC orchestra this season, aiming to revive the memories of the most beautiful songs that stayed with us for years, performed by the orchestra’s musicians and singers Abdulqader Al-Hadhood, Bader Nouri, Walaa Al-Sarraf and Ghaneema Al-Enezi.

Just as many of us were keen on buying the cassette tapes of our favourite songs by our favourite singers, or combining a number of our favourite songs in a mixed cassette tape before technology made music spread on smart phone applications, JACC will play a different cassette tape on every concert, and the first tape to be released this season is entitled “Shareet Munawaat Kuwaitia / A Medley of Kuwaiti songs”, in which we have chosen for you many songs and tunes engraved in our memories and hearts.

The word “Tape/Shareet” reminds us of the days of cassette tapes that accompanied us from the mid-seventies until the early 2000s, and it is also the title of our latest performance to be presented by the JACC orchestra this season, aiming to revive the memories of the most beautiful songs that stayed with us for years, performed by the orchestra’s musicians and singers Abdulqader Al-Hadhood, Bader Nouri, Walaa Al-Sarraf and Ghaneema Al-Enezi.

Just as many of us were keen on buying the cassette tapes of our favourite songs by our favourite singers, or combining a number of our favourite songs in a mixed cassette tape before technology made music spread on smart phone applications, JACC will play a different cassette tape on every concert, and the first tape to be released this season is entitled “Shareet Munawaat Kuwaitia / A Medley of Kuwaiti songs”, in which we have chosen for you many songs and tunes engraved in our memories and hearts.

We invite our dear audience to an artistic picnic outdoors in the Centre’s beautiful garden, where they can witness some of our local talents in our latest event, “The Talent Show”.

In a cozy circular space, the Centre gives young talents the opportunity to play instruments and sing both eastern and western music, whether through solo performances or in small bands. “The Talent Show” is unique in its nature, as it creates a friendly and familial atmosphere similar to the intimate park gatherings, where the audience sits on comfortable bean bags and cushions to enjoy for an hour the performance of promising talents. The first talents of the show for this season are Maryam Shehab, Talal Al-Khaled, Rita Malek, and Ahmad Al-Hashem.

We invite our dear audience to an artistic picnic outdoors in the Centre’s beautiful garden, where they can witness some of our local talents in our latest event, “The Talent Show”.

In a cozy circular space, the Centre gives young talents the opportunity to play instruments and sing both eastern and western music, whether through solo performances or in small bands. “The Talent Show” is unique in its nature, as it creates a friendly and familial atmosphere similar to the intimate park gatherings, where the audience sits on comfortable bean bags and cushions to enjoy for an hour the performance of promising talents. The first talents of the show for this season are Maryam Shehab, Talal Al-Khaled, Rita Malek, and Ahmad Al-Hashem.

A classical music evening with the works of Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi, performed by the Ahmadi Music Group.

The Ahmadi Music Group choir and orchestra will join forces on stage in the Concert Hall to perform choral and orchestral works by the Baroque Master Antonio Vivald (1678 – 1741), the great Italian composer from the baroque period. Vivaldi transformed a school orchestra in Venice into Europe’s foremost performing ensemble, and wrote hundreds of works for them, which are still regularly performed today. The Concert will include works for orchestra, choir, and several different groups of soloists.

The Ahmadi Music Group is sponsored by Burgan Bank.

A classical music evening with the works of Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi, performed by the Ahmadi Music Group.

The Ahmadi Music Group choir and orchestra will join forces on stage in the Concert Hall to perform choral and orchestral works by the Baroque Master Antonio Vivald (1678 – 1741), the great Italian composer from the baroque period. Vivaldi transformed a school orchestra in Venice into Europe’s foremost performing ensemble, and wrote hundreds of works for them, which are still regularly performed today. The Concert will include works for orchestra, choir, and several different groups of soloists.

The Ahmadi Music Group is sponsored by Burgan Bank.

As part of its educational goals and desire to include and provide opportunities for different age groups, the Centre offers a new experience for the youth this season, inviting them to attend “Do Re Mi” innovative classes suitable for children aged 6-12 years, in which music is used as an educational tool.

The “Do Re Mi” classes utilize music to arouse the interest of young students and introduce them to various topics in different fields such as science, history, technology, and others, and present them in an interesting, simplified, and entertaining way using musical instruments, games and singing. The classes are given by Dr. Zainab Awadh, Assistant Professor at the College of Basic Education (Department of Music Education) with a doctorate in arts with a specialization in singing.

In the context of introducing young people to the most important cultural icons in Kuwait and the Arab world, the Centre is hosting “Abdulaziz Hussain, an intellectual and a leader”, a seminar on the late pioneer of education and culture, organized by Al-Multaqa Al-Kuwaiti.

The late Abdulaziz Hussain was the one who laid the foundations of formal education in Kuwait during his position as Director of Education in 1952, enthusiastically supporting women’s education. He also founded the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, Almarsam alhurr, the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, and contributed to the founding of Kuwait University. Hussain also served as Minister of Cabinet Affairs from 1971 to 1985.

Morning sessions

• Opening ceremony (10:00-10:45)
• (Ceremony introduced by Dr. Bassam Aljazzaf)
• Writers and intellectuals’ speech – Prof. Sulaiman Al-Shatti
• Dr. Hussain’s family speech – Mr. Hani Abdulaziz Hussain
• Al-Multaqa Al-Kuwaiti speech – Mr. Taleb Al-Refaei
• A documentary film directed by Mr. Ali Alrayes
• Break 10:45-11:00

First session (11:00-12:30)

(Session moderated by Dr. Khaled Abdullatif Ramadhan)

• A testimony by Mr. Abdullah Yaqoub Bishara: Abdulaziz Hussain: Perseverence and leadership
• Research paper by Dr. Yaqoub Yousef Al-Ghunaim: Abdulaziz Hussain: A pioneer in science and culture
• Research paper by Dr. Khalifa Al-Wugayan: Kuwait’s cultural and intellectual milieu that Dr. Hussain witnessed
• Break 12:30-12:45

Second session (12:45-2:15)

(Session moderated by Dr. Eissa Alansari)

• A testimony by Dr. Suad Alsabah: A Man of his time
• Research paper by Dr. Abdullah Yousef Al-Ghunaim: On Kuwait’s first request to join the United Nations
• Research paper by Dr. Moudhi Al-Humoud: Abdulaziz Hussain’s influence on the education system and scientific research

In the context of introducing young people to the most important cultural icons in Kuwait and the Arab world, the Centre is hosting “Abdulaziz Hussain, an intellectual and a leader”, a seminar on the late pioneer of education and culture, organized by Al-Multaqa Al-Kuwaiti.

The late Abdulaziz Hussain was the one who laid the foundations of formal education in Kuwait during his position as Director of Education in 1952, enthusiastically supporting women’s education. He also founded the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, Almarsam alhurr, the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, and contributed to the founding of Kuwait University. Hussain also served as Minister of Cabinet Affairs from 1971 to 1985.

Evening sessions

First session (5:00-6:00)

(Session moderated by Mr. Khaled Al-Tarrah)

• Research paper by Dr. Abdullah Aljasmi: Abdulaziz Hussain: A pioneer in Kuwait’s modern thinking
• A testimony by Ms. Naema Alshaiji: Abdulaziz Hussain’s role in supporting women: a personal experience”
• Break (6:00-6:15)

Second session (6:15-7:15)

(Session moderated by Mr. Fahad Al-Hendal)

• Research paper by Dr. Ali Al-Enzi: Abdulaziz Hussain: on modernity and modernization
• Research paper by Dr. Amer Al-Tamimi: Abdulaziz Hussain and the modern civil society

In the context of introducing young people to the most important cultural icons in Kuwait and the Arab world, the Centre is hosting “Abdulaziz Hussain, an intellectual and a leader”, a seminar on the late pioneer of education and culture, organized by Al-Multaqa Al-Kuwaiti.

The late Abdulaziz Hussain was the one who laid the foundations of formal education in Kuwait during his position as Director of Education in 1952, enthusiastically supporting women’s education. He also founded the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, Almarsam alhurr, the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, and contributed to the founding of Kuwait University. Hussain also served as Minister of Cabinet Affairs from 1971 to 1985.

Morning sessions

• First session (10:00-11:30)

(Session moderated by Dr. Hessa Almulla)

• A testimony by Mr. Hani Abdulaziz Hussain: A familial viewpoint
• Research paper by Dr. Ghanim Al-Najjar: Abdulaziz Hussain: the abstained politician
• A research paper by Mr. Taleb Al-Refaei: Abdulaziz Hussain: An intellectual and a leader
• Break (11:30-11:45)
• Second session (11:45-12:45)

(Session moderated by Dr. Faima Alsalem)

• Research paper by Dr. Hamed Al-Humoud: Abdulaziz Hussain and the roots of democratic awareness in Kuwait
• Research paper by Mr. Khaled Al-Abdulmughni: Abdulaziz Hussain and the artist: from the scolarship to education

In the context of introducing young people to the most important cultural icons in Kuwait and the Arab world, the Centre is hosting “Abdulaziz Hussain, an intellectual and a leader”, a seminar on the late pioneer of education and culture, organized by Al-Multaqa Al-Kuwaiti.

The late Abdulaziz Hussain was the one who laid the foundations of formal education in Kuwait during his position as Director of Education in 1952, enthusiastically supporting women’s education. He also founded the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, Almarsam alhurr, the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, and contributed to the founding of Kuwait University. Hussain also served as Minister of Cabinet Affairs from 1971 to 1985.

Evening sessions

• First session (5:00-600)

(Session moderated by Mr. Mohammed Jawad)

• Research paper by Prof. Mohammed Ghanim Al-Rumaihi: Abdulaziz Hussain: A comprehensive vision on speaking through cultural institutions (presented on his behalf by Dr. Iqbal Al-Othaimeen)
• Research paper by Mr. Ibrahim Al-Mulaifi: Abdulaziz Hussain: A politician serving culture
• Break (6:00-6:15)
• Second session (6:1-7:15)

(Session moderated by Dr. Mohammed Alsaeygh)

• Research paper by Mr. Hamza Olayan: Abdulaziz Hussain’s role and contributions to the Arabian cultural comprehensive plan
• Research paper by Mr. Muthaffar Rashed: The central role of the enlightenment pioneer Abdulaziz Hussain in establishing the Kuwait House in Cairo

This season, we relive the musical intimacy of the “Jalsat” evenings in our Amphitheatre, where the audience gathers on its steps to listen to a number of singers known for their mastery in Kuwait’s folkloric arts. The first evening will be performed by Khaled Fouad and Mohamed Al Shehhi.

Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been uniquely distinguished for its singing sessions “Jalsat” which were filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of the golden days, who achieved great fame in those sessions and entertained us with the arts of “Sawt”, “Samri” and other authentic folk arts that we still remember in the voices of Saud Al-Rashed and Awadh Dokhi, and the stars of the seventies and eighties, Abdulkareem Abdulqader, Mustafa Ahmed, Saleh Al-Huraibi, Rashid Al-Hamali and Yousef Al-Mutref, all the way to the young singers today.

This season, we relive the musical intimacy of the “Jalsat” evenings in our Amphitheatre, where the audience gathers on its steps to listen to a number of singers known for their mastery in Kuwait’s folkloric arts. The first evening will be performed by Jaber Al Kaser and Ibrahim Dashti.

Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been uniquely distinguished for its singing sessions “Jalsat” which were filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of the golden days, who achieved great fame in those sessions and entertained us with the arts of “Sawt”, “Samri” and other authentic folk arts that we still remember in the voices of Saud Al-Rashed and Awadh Dokhi, and the stars of the seventies and eighties, Abdulkareem Abdulqader, Mustafa Ahmed, Saleh Al-Huraibi, Rashid Al-Hamali and Yousef Al-Mutref, all the way to the young singers today.

As part of its educational goals and desire to include and provide opportunities for different age groups, the Centre offers a new experience for the youth this season, inviting them to attend “Do Re Mi” innovative classes suitable for children aged 6-12 years, in which music is used as an educational tool.

The “Do Re Mi” classes utilize music to arouse the interest of young students and introduce them to various topics in different fields such as science, history, technology, and others, and present them in an interesting, simplified, and entertaining way using musical instruments, games and singing. The classes are given by Dr. Zainab Awadh, Assistant Professor at the College of Basic Education (Department of Music Education) with a doctorate in arts with a specialization in singing.

We invite our dear audience to an artistic picnic outdoors in the Centre’s beautiful garden, where they can witness some of our local talents in our latest event, “The Talent Show”.

In a cozy circular space, the Centre gives young talents the opportunity to play instruments and sing both eastern and western music, whether through solo performances or in small bands. “The Talent Show” is unique in its nature, as it creates a friendly and familial atmosphere similar to the intimate park gatherings, where the audience sits on comfortable bean bags and cushions to enjoy for an hour the performance of promising talents. The first talents of the show for this season are Maryam Shehab, Talal Al-Khaled, Rita Malek, and Ahmad Al-Hashem.

Celebrating the holidays, JACC Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud, returns with “The Rehearsal”, on 5 and 6 May 2022. The concert, performed by Abdulqader Al-Hadhood, Hamad Al-Qattan, Abdulaziz Al-Misbah and Ashwaq, includes dramatic scenes that show the audience parts of the Orchestra’s rehearsals for the Eid concert.

The scenes  are combined with songs, giving the audience two hours of enjoyment, in which we celebrate the Eid with the beautiful song of Awad Dokhi “Barko ya ahbab”, along with the most famous works of Abu Bakr Salem, Abdul Karim Abdul Qader, Abdul Mohsen Al Muhanna, Salman Ziman, Gharid Al Shati, Muhammad Al Misbah, and many stars of Kuwait and the Gulf.

Celebrating the holidays, JACC Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud, returns with “The Rehearsal”, on 5 and 6 May 2022. The concert, performed by Abdulqader Al-Hadhood, Hamad Al-Qattan, Abdulaziz Al-Misbah and Ashwaq, includes dramatic scenes that show the audience parts of the Orchestra’s rehearsals for the Eid concert.

The scenes  are combined with songs, giving the audience two hours of enjoyment, in which we celebrate the Eid with the beautiful song of Awad Dokhi “Barko ya ahbab”, along with the most famous works of Abu Bakr Salem, Abdul Karim Abdul Qader, Abdul Mohsen Al Muhanna, Salman Ziman, Gharid Al Shati, Muhammad Al Misbah, and many stars of Kuwait and the Gulf.

Ahmadi Music Group presents, on two consecutive nights 12 and 13 may, a concert/ lecture for one of the most widely recognized and admired composers in the history of Western music: Ludwig van Beethoven. 

The orchestra will perform the Egmont Overture, a powerful short piece Beethoven wrote to accompany a stage drama, and then the mighty 5th Symphony, which begins with perhaps the most famous 10 seconds of music ever composed.

Between these, the director of Ahmadi Music Group Richard Bushman will offer a lecture, discussing the life and character of Beethoven; the significance of the 5th Symphony, and a behind-the scenes discussion of how the orchestra prepares to perform this work.

For children and families, JACC hosts, on 18, 19 and 20 May at the drama theatre, the international play “Dear Zoo”, adapted for stage from Rod Campbell’s book.

Rod Campbell’s much-loved lift the flap book has been a firm favourite with children and parents for nearly forty years. His distinctive illustrations leap from the page in this colourful show packed full of puppetry, songs and, of course, all the animals from the zoo.

Dear Zoo tells the story of Ben and Sally who are searching for the perfect pet, but instead they receive a far too big elephant, a far too grumpy camel, and a far too jumpy frog.  Whatever will they send next!

With lots of laughs and audience interaction, Dear Zoo is the perfect introduction to theatre for young children aged 2 years and upwards. Join us and find out whether the zoo will send the perfect pet…in the end!

Celebrating the Yemeni musical heritage and its stars, JACC presents “Aden Nights” (Layaly Adan) concerts, which revives the memories of Adeni “Samrat” (musical gatherings), when the southern Yemeni port, Aden, was the destination for singers and musicians. The concerts will be starred by singers who are well known by their performance to Hadrami songs in“Jalsat” and “Samrat”. This night will be performed by Fawaz Al-Marzouq, Talal Al-Saydali and Sultan Al-Muftah.

The Yemeni musical heritage is considered the richest in the region. Its impacts were spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and left big marks in the singing and music legacies of each country, especially in Kuwait, whose artists were influenced by Yemeni diverse music styles, such as the Adani. As well, “Samrat” and “Jalsat” (singing musical gatherings) are considered part of the Kuwaiti social heritage. Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been distinguished with these sessions filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of golden days.

In the “Aden Nights” concerts, the authentic “Samrat” style will be revived at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali concert Hall. The stage will be decorated with a floor sitting, and the singer in the middle, surrounded by a limited number of musicians, the chorus of vocalists, and the “Kefafa” (hand-clappers) in traditional Yemeni attire.

Celebrating the Yemeni musical heritage and its stars, JACC presents “Aden Nights” (Layaly Adan) concerts, which revives the memories of Adeni “Samrat” (musical gatherings), when the southern Yemeni port, Aden, was the destination for singers and musicians. The concerts will be starred by singers who are well known by their performance to Hadrami songs in “Jalsat” and “Samrat”. This night will be performed by Ali Abdullah and Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi.

The Yemeni musical heritage is considered the richest in the region. Its impacts were spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and left big marks in the singing and music legacies of each country, especially in Kuwait, whose artists were influenced by Yemeni diverse music styles, such as the Adani. As well, “Samrat” and “Jalsat” (singing musical gatherings) are considered part of the Kuwaiti social heritage. Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been distinguished with these sessions filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of golden days.

In the “Aden Nights” concerts, the authentic “Samrat” style will be revived at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali concert Hall. The stage will be decorated with a floor sitting, and the singer in the middle, surrounded by a limited number of musicians, the chorus of vocalists, and the “Kefafa” (hand-clappers) in traditional Yemeni attire.

Shaikh Jaber AlAhmad Cultural Centre is thrilled to host the first edition of OUD Fashion Talks.
‎‏

”OFT” the first of its kind is a series of panels with experts and  power players of the luxury industry who took part in shaping the fashion scene in Kuwait and the region

10:00AM – 10:45AM

The State Of Fashion

Imran Amed, Louise Nichol

11:15AM – 12:00PM

Building a Global Arab Fashion House.

Louise Nichol, Elie Saab Jr.

12:30PM – 01:15PM

The Evolution Of Style, Shopping and Spending in Kuwait

Louise Nichol, Rachad Tabiat

LUNCH

03:15PM – 04:00PM

To Be Credible Kuwait Must First Be Sustainable

Louise Nichol, Florence Bulte

04:30PM – 05:15PM

Sustaining Creativity: Can Emerging Kuwait Designers Generate Passion Purpose and Performance?

Imran Amed, Bazza Alzouman, Haya Al Abdulkareem, Fawaz Alyaqout

05:45PM – 06:30PM

In Conversation with The First Lady Of Luxury in Ku­wait Najla Maatouk, Founder of Al Ostoura.

Louise Nichol, Najla Maatouk

Ahmadi Music Group presents, on two consecutive nights 3rd June, a concert/ lecture for one of the most widely recognized and admired composers in the history of Western music: Ludwig van Beethoven.

The orchestra will perform the Egmont Overture, a powerful short piece Beethoven wrote to accompany a stage drama, and then the mighty 5th Symphony, which begins with perhaps the most famous 10 seconds of music ever composed.

Between these, the director of Ahmadi Music Group Richard Bushman will offer a lecture, discussing the life and character of Beethoven; the significance of the 5th Symphony, and a behind-the scenes discussion of how the orchestra prepares to perform this work.

After two wonderful evenings of “Aden Nights” (Layaly Adan), JACC hosts a third concert, on Friday 10 June, which will be performed by the veteran singer Khaled Al-Mulla and the famous UAE singer Abdel Moneim Al-Ameri.

The “Aden Nights” concerts revive the local Adeni “Samrat” (musical gatherings) and celebrate the Yemeni musical heritage, considered the richest in the region. Its impacts were spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and left big marks in the singing and music legacies of each country, especially in Kuwait, whose artists were influenced by Yemeni diverse music styles. As well, “Samrat” and “Jalsat” (singing musical gatherings) are considered part of the Kuwaiti social heritage. Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been distinguished with these sessions filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of golden days.

In the third night of “Aden Nights”, the audience will enjoy the musical intimacy of “Samrat” at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali concert Hall. The stage will be decorated with semi-circle sofa with the singers sitting in the middle, surrounded by a limited number of musicians, the chorus of vocalists, and the “Kefafa” (hand-clappers) in traditional Yemeni attire. A compilation of old Khaliji songs by famous gulf artists will be performed as well as the works of the two stars of the event.

The National Theatre is hosting, on 16 & 17 June, one of the biggest events of the cultural season “Summer of Kuwait 2022”: Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo, famed founder of the internationally renowned band.

Started in the 80’s, the Gipsy Kings are largely responsible for bringing the joyful sounds of Andalusian flamenco to the world. Their songs captured the world’s imagination and became a genuine phenomenon around the globe. The Group has sold over 20 million albums worldwide and has been awarded numerous gold, platinum and diamond discs. Throughout their hugely successful career they’ve introduced millions of listeners to a unique, irresistible blend of traditional flamenco styles with Western pop and Latin rhythms. Tonino Baliardo is the founder and leader of Gipsy Kings, but above all he is a guitar virtuoso and a composer recognized worldwide. He composed and produced the greatest hits of the group such as « Bamboleo » and « Djobi Djoba ». Tonino’s new single, “Chica Del Sol”, released in June, will be performed live for the first time in Kuwait, in addition to the band’s most popular songs.

A melodic journey across the Turkish musical landscape with composer and virtuoso qanun player Dr. Bassam Al-Bloushi and accompanying musicians.

Turkish music holds a special place amongst music lovers in the Arab world as its melodies and instruments resemble those found within Arabic music genres.  This delightful musical familiarity is brought to life with the “Turkish Delight” programme presented on Monday, 20 June 2022 in the Recital Hall.  The evening’s melodic journey charts the history of Turkish music as performed by the Kuwaiti composer and virtuoso qanun player Dr. Bassam Al-Bloushi, accompanied by musicians playing a variety of string, wind and keyboard instruments.

During the evening, Dr. Al-Bloushi presents diverse musical styles: from Ottoman classical music by famed composer Tanburi Cemil Bey to modern music by Selahattin Altıntaş to the pop music from Sezen Aksu. The concert also includes works composed by Dr. Al-Bloushi, who has been influenced by the richness of “maqamat” and classical rhythms of Turkish music.

Stroll the narrow streets of old Istanbul; feel the breezes of the shoreline at Uskudar; get enchanted by historic Thrace, the hidden gem of Turkey.

For the first time in Kuwait, the UK’s favourite science show for kids and family! 

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE LIVE is a popular educational entertainment show for children 6 years old and up that will be presented between 23-25 June 2022 in the Drama Theatre, after touring worldwide.

Look at how science shapes the modern world in a fun-filled show loaded with humour that will resonate with kids and parents alike.  MINISTRY OF SCIENCE LIVE encourages kids to get curious and excited about science whilst showing that educational discovery can be enjoyable too.

Get your safety helmet, goggles and lab aprons and expect 20ft LIQUID NITROGEN clouds, exploding OXYGEN & HYDROGEN balloons, FIRE TORNADOS, HYDROGEN bottle rockets, ignited METHANE and even a self-built Hovercraft!

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE LIVE 100% Educational.  200% Entertaining.  300% Explosive. 400% Fun. 

Kuwaiti musical heritage with a modern twist

For traditional music lovers, “takht sharqi” harks back to the best of Middle Eastern melodies – soon to be performed by members of the JACC Orchestra in an evening combining folkloric Kuwaiti tunes with classical forms.

The word “takht” means podium or seat and was used in the 18th century to refer to the place where a singer and musician would sit.  At the beginning, the takht ensemble consisted of three instruments: oud, qanun and riqq (like tambourine).  The violin and oriental flute (ney) were added later.

This concert marks the launch of JACC’s “Takht” ensemble, within which modern instruments are to be added to the traditional ones: keyboard and cello.

The players in the newly formed ensemble are Osama Al-Bayati and Yassine Ijmaa (violin), Tarek Kamal (cello), Samer Barakat (qanun), Ali Al-Anezi (ney / flute), Jarrah Al-Sayegh (keyboard) and Abdullah Al-Mutairi and Mohamed Al-Subaie (percussion).

Join JACC’s very own “Takht” ensemble at the Recital Hall on Tuesday 28 June 2022 and rediscover “takht” in a whole new way!

Middle Eastern Melodies performed by JAAC Takht Sharqi on Tuesday 28 June 2022.

A concert celebrating Khaleeji songs, with a romantic twist, as sung by Kuwaiti singers Al-Aneen and Fahd Al-Salem

As part of JACC summer events and musical concerts, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host “Khaleeji Nights” on June 30^th. Featuring two young Kuwaiti singers, Al-Aneen and Fahd Al-Salem, accompanied by an orchestra of Western and oriental instruments led by Maestro Ahmed Al Oud, the night will combine the intimacy and warmth of “Jalsat” (singing sessions) with some musical extravagance intertwined.

The two singers will share the stage to perform solos and duets as a compilation of romantic songs associated with superstars of the Gulf and Arab world: Nawal, Rashid Al Majed, Rabeh Saqr and Abdul Majeed Abdullah.  Songs by Fahad Al-Salem and Al-Aneen – such as “Leh Rajea’”, “Sowarna”, “Helm Omri” and “Law sebert shway” – will be interspersed, creating a memorable evening of music and artistry not to be forgotten.

Khaled bin Hussein and the musical ensemble led by Maestro Ahmed-Al-Oud.

The Kuwaiti local arts hold a special place in the current cultural season “Summer of Kuwait 2022”, in particular, the concerts and singing sessions (Jalsat) which were a great success. JACC audience is promised with more musical evenings to take place during Eid Al-Adha holidays.

Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host “Jalsat Al-Eid”, on two consecutive days, with different style and performers each night. On Monday, July 11, 2022, the Kuwaiti singer Khaled bin Hussein, accompanied by the musical ensemble led by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud, will perform a compilation of his famed songs alongside the works of great singers in Kuwait and the Gulf.

Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi, Saudi singer Mashael accompanied by the musical ensemble led by Maestro Ahmed-Al-Oud.

The Kuwaiti local arts hold a special place in the current cultural season “Summer of Kuwait 2022”, in particular, the concerts and singing sessions (Jalsat) which were a great success. JACC audience is promised with more musical evenings to take place during Eid Al-Adha holidays.

Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host “Jalsat Al-Eid”, on two consecutive days, with different style and performers each concert. The second night, Tuesday, July 12, 2022, brings together the Kuwaiti well known singer Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi and Saudi popular singer Mashael, accompanied by the musical ensemble led by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud. The audience will enjoy a compilation of the two performers’ songs alongside the works of great singers in Kuwait and the Gulf.

An evening of Um Kulthum’s masterpieces is renewed this season in the “Kulthumiyat” performed by the Egyptian singer Rehab Motawea and the musical ensemble led by Dr Ahmed Atef.

Four decades on, the legacy of Umm Kulthum, Star of the Orient, remains as strong as ever. The late famed singer still lives on in people’s hearts and her mesmerizing voice still resonates in the ears of her fans. As part of JACC summer cultural season, an evening of Um Kulthum’s masterpieces is renewed in the Kulthumiyat concerts, on 21-22 July 2022, with a new selection of the Lady of Arabic singing masterpieces to be performed by Egyptian singer Rehab Motawea and the musical ensemble led by Dr Ahmed Atef.

Rehab Motawea is one of the Egyptian Opera House soloists. She graduated from the Higher Institute of Arabic Music in the Academy of Arts, and she is a member of Umm Kulthum Ensemble for Arabic Music. She participated in many international festivals, held several concerts around the Arab world and was among the performers of the opening ceremony of the 15th Arab Media Festival. She also starred in the musical “Sirat Hob” about the life of the late composer Baligh Hamdi. Rehab Motawea performed in the third Kulthumiyat concert in December 2017 during JACC’s first cultural season.

Direct from the UK, a musical interactive sing-along show for the whole family, especially little ones from 2 to 4 years old!

Celebrating summer holidays, JACC is hosting a new show for the whole family, “Nursery Rhyme Time”, on 28-30 July 2022, in the Drama Theatre.

Get ready to jump aboard the Wheels On The Bus as this fantastic, interactive 1 hour sing-along concert show will be a journey through all of our favourite nursery rhymes and well-known characters!

With Derek and Olivia, two of the UK’s biggest and best-known children’s TV presenters, you will learn new songs and actions as you help Little Bo Peep find her sheep, climb up the water spout with Incy Wincy Spider, and get those Twinkle, Twinkle Little Stars high above the sky.

A perfect treat for the little ones from 2 to 4 years old. Don’t miss it!

Innovative classes suitable for children aged 6-12 years, in which music is used as an educational tool.

After witnessing a great attendance during JACC’s cultural season “Spring of Kuwait”, “Do Re Mi” musical classes for children will be back as a weekly summer activity. The innovative educational classes will be held from August 15^th to September 7^th.

The “Do Re Mi” classes, suitable for children aged 6-12 years, utilize music to arouse the interest of young students and introduce them to various topics in different fields such as science, history, technology, and others, and present them in an interesting, simplified, and entertaining way using musical instruments, games and singing. The classes are given by Dr. Zainab Awadh, Assistant Professor at the College of Basic Education (Department of Music Education) with a doctorate in arts with a specialization in singing.

The summer “Do Re Mi”, sponsored by Al Ahli bank of Kuwait (ABK), are free and registration is done through JACC’s website or application. Each class is divided in two sessions, on Mondays and Wednesdays, for one hour each day.

Lebanese famed composer and pianist, Guy Manoukian presents a spectacular concert in Kuwait for the first time.

After his recent sold out concert at L’Olympia in Paris and packed houses from Dubai Opera, Sydney Opera House, Greek National Opera, The London Palladium, Lebanese famed composer and pianist Guy Manoukian will be back in Kuwait performing a spectacular concert, for the first time Jaber Al Ali Concert Hall on Thursday 18^th of August 2022.

Guy Manoukian, “A Master Performer” as he has been described by the international media, stands out for his unique musical compositions that bridge in the most harmonious way the modern and classic melodies of the East. His music is inextricably linked to his roots and his compositions always honour his Lebanese and Armenian heritage.

Performing all over the globe, from Chile to Sydney, Manoukian still finds time to work with the biggest pop acts: he recorded “On Tour” with Wyclef Jean, worked with 50 Cent, French rapper Diams, Raul Di Blasio and the Gipsy Kings. Guy is the recipient of many awards but the ones he cherishes the most are the Armenian Music Award that he received in Los Angeles for Best Dance Album.

A new musical evening for JACC’s “Takht” ensemble performing a compilation of the most beautiful tunes by Kuwait’s great composers.

JACC’s “Takht” ensemble’ s first evening, held in the Recital Hall in June, received a big success with the crowd filling the hall and enjoying the amazing performance of the musicians for Kuwaiti musical heritage. In their second concert, “Kuwaiti Tunes”, to be held at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Musical Hall on August 25^th, the audience will listen to a selection of popular tunes by Kuwait’s great composers who shaped the musical scene such as Ahmed Baqer, Awad Dokhi, Sulayman Al-Mulla, Youssef Al-Muhanna, Saud Al-Rashed, Anwar Abdullah and Rashed Al-Khudr.

Originally, the concerts of “Takht” ensembles are composed of a limited number of musicians, which highlights the details and ornaments of the pieces, and stresses on the personal expression and the musical conversation among players. As well, the design of Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Hall, equipped with acoustic reflectors, brings the sensation of music to the audience directly in high purity.

The performers of the concert are Osama Al-Bayati and Yassine Ijmaa (violin), Mishaal Hussein (clarinet), Tarek Kamal (cello), Samer Barakat (qanun), Ali Al-Anezi (ney/flute), Yousef Al-Qallaf (oud), Jarrah Al-Sayegh (keyboard), and Hussein Al-Khalaf, Abdullah Al-Mutairi and Muhammad Al-Subaie (percussion).

These two versatile and creative accordion players create unique cover songs of popular music with engaging visuals.

Face 2 Face is a duet of two versatile and creative accordion players from Poland, Paweł Janas and Bartosz Kołsut. Thanks to their exceptional stage charisma and boundless passion, they cross the boundaries of different genres and styles, creating crossover music. They manage to get the most out of their instruments, creating a very “big” sound with only two band members. Face2Face will bring their “big” unique act to JACC on 26 & 27 August at the Drama Theatre.

The virtuosi musicians have a list of achievements winning 60 awards in multiple different countries including Poland, Italy, Spain, Germany, Great Britain, and France, and they have performed in many European countries, the USA, Canada and China. Bartosz Kołsut was awarded the title “Young Musician of The Year” in Warsaw and he was a finalist of the Eurovision Young Musicians contest in Cologne, Germany. While Paweł Janas is a multi-talented musician and composer who can mix a multitude of genres and styles including classical, contemporary, electronic and improvised music. He won the Digital Accordion World Championship in Italy. He is also the only accordion player to ever perform accompanied by the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra.

A euphoric concert celebrating, Baligh Hamdi, the remarkable composer in the 20^th Century, performed by Egyptian singer Rehab Motawea and two Kuwaiti young talents, Mashael and Khalaf Al-Mashouf accompanied by Dr. Ahmed Atef musical ensemble.

“Egypt’s hope in music,” with these words, Egyptian late famed singer Abdel Halim Hafez described Baligh Hamdi, the composer of his new song »Maddah Al-Qamar”, in its debut in the concert of Adwaa Al Madina (Lights of the City), on November 19, 1971. Halim, dubbed the Dark Nightingale, borrowed the description given to the young musician in his beginnings by the great poet Kamel El-Shennawy.

This concert “Baligh Hamdi, King of Melodies”, is part of JACC’ tribute to the legacy of the most important Arabic musicians of the 20^th Century, recalling the most loved melodies of Baligh Hamdi, which he composed for greatest singers, from Um Kulthumm and Abdel Halim Hafez to Mayada Al-Hanawi and Afaf Radi. Egyptian Opera House singer Rehab Mutawa will be performing, on 1-2 September at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall, a compilation of Hamdi’s popular songs along with the Kuwaiti young talents Mashael and Khalaf AL-Mashouf, accompanied by Dr. Ahmed Atef musical ensemble.

JACC’s tribute of the iconic late composer, the so-called “The King of Music” among many other titles, due to his timeless compositions, coincides with the anniversary of his death on September 12, 1993. Baligh Abdel Hamid Hamdi Morsi was born in the Shubra district of Cairo on October 7, 1931. He learned to play the violin at age nine and the oud two or three years later, before studying music at the Fouad I Institute of Music (currently the Institute of Arabic Music).

He started his music career as a singer, but very soon he turned to composing, and his compositions were well received in the mid-1950s, with his first song composed to Abdel Halim Hafez (Tokhonouh)

The remarkable musician composed more than 3,000 tunes, for almost all Egyptian and Arab singers, including Um Kulthumm, Star of the East (11 songs), Halim, the Dark Nightingale (30 songs), and almost the same number for the renowned Algerian singer Warda, who was the love of his life. They were married for years, and together they created some of their most famous works.

Innovative classes suitable for children aged 6-12 years, in which music is used as an educational tool.

After witnessing a great attendance during JACC’s cultural season “Spring of Kuwait”, “Do Re Mi” musical classes for children will be back as a weekly summer activity. The innovative educational classes will be held from August 15^th to September 7^th.

The “Do Re Mi” classes, suitable for children aged 6-12 years, utilize music to arouse the interest of young students and introduce them to various topics in different fields such as science, history, technology, and others, and present them in an interesting, simplified, and entertaining way using musical instruments, games and singing. The classes are given by Dr. Zainab Awadh, Assistant Professor at the College of Basic Education (Department of Music Education) with a doctorate in arts with a specialization in singing.

The summer “Do Re Mi”, sponsored by Al Ahli bank of Kuwait (ABK), are free and registration is done through JACC’s website or application. Each class is divided in two sessions, on Mondays and Wednesdays, for one hour each day.

JACC celebrates the works of the prominent Kuwaiti composer Sulaiman Al-Mulla, with a special concert to be performed by singer Fawaz Al-Rejaib and the musical ensemble conducted by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud.

Since the beginning of his musical career in the seventies of the 20^th century, late singer and composer Sulaiman Al-Mulla has become one of Kuwait’s significant artists, and one of the pioneers whom the Kuwaiti art scene lost in July. JACC honours Al-Mulla’s musical legacy, engraved in our memory and hearts, with a special concert recalling his most beautiful tunes, to be performed by singer Fawaz Al-Rejaib and the musical ensemble conducted by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud.

Sulaiman Al-Mulla left a great legacy which enriched the Kuwaiti and Khaleeji musical repertoire with many songs about love and patriotism. The late composer started as a violinist who played for top Kuwaiti singers such as Awadh Dukhi and Hussain Jassim, but very soon he turned to composing. His famous song “Kashafu Sirr Al-Hawa” was his first step towards success as a composer, after which he cooperated with a large number of great singers, including Abdulkarim Abdulqader, Abdelmohsen Al-Muhanna, Rabab, Gharid Al-Shati, Talal Maddah, Abdullah Al-Ruwaished, Nabil Shuail and others.

In addition to his talent in composing, Al-Mulla also excelled in singing with his oud instrument, creating beautiful works that are still remembered by his fans, in particular his two patriotic songs “Ya Nabe’ Alwafa” and “Wen ardak, wen samak”, as well as the most iconic Kuwaiti national song “Watan Al-Nahar” (Homeland of the Dawn) released after the liberation in 1991.

A concert celebrating the songs of Saudi superstar Rashed Al Majed, to be performed by Kuwaiti young voices Fahad Al-Salem and Jassim Mohammed, and the musical ensemble conducted by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud.

Saudi superstar Rashed Al-Majed, dubbed Sinbad Al-Khaleej, is considered one of the most prominent singers in the Arab world, with an impressive career dated back to mid-1980’s. JACC is honouring the famous singer with a musical night dedicated to his beautiful romantic songs, to be performed, on September 9, at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall, by Kuwaiti singers Fahad Al-Salem and Jassim Mohammed, and the musical ensemble conducted by Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud.

The long-standing musical icon, Rashed Al-Majed, began his journey in 1984, at the age of 15, when he performed in the Bahraini TV show “Bab Asindibad’ (Sinbads Door), quickly gaining popularity across the region and the Arab nation. Since then, he was called the Sinbad of Khaleeji song. Al-Majed has successfully released over 40 albums, 800 songs, and over 32 video clips, in addition to his multiple live performances at various musical festivals.

Along his career, through his own production company “Al-Jazeera Arts”, and his TV Channel “Wanassa”, the renowned Saudi artist supported young talents. Hence JACC’s choice for two young Kuwaiti voices to perform the hits of the beloved Saudi star.

The unique multi-instrumental duo, Sarah and Laura Ayoub, will perform their exciting mix of Arabic, classical, and popular music with Ahmadi Music Group.

The Ayoub Sisters, Sarah and Laura, are a unique multi-instrumental classical duo that is fast becoming the sound and faces of a new generation of classical and crossover artists.​ The two sisters recorded their first album with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and performed at Royal Albert Hall as well as touring to major concert halls.

In September 2022, their new album will be released, and the first live performance of it will be in Kuwait, at Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Cultural Centre with Ahmadi Music Group. Their music is an exciting mix of Arabic, classical, and popular. They play piano together or strings as Sarah plays cello while Laura plays violin.

The Ayoub sisters grew up in Scotland, in an Egyptian family.  They were extremely dedicated classical music students from a very young age, and soon began performing together.  In 2017, they created a version of Uptown Funk, which was noticed by its singer Mark Ronson, who invited them to record with him.  Soon, they were brought to public attention, offered a record deal, and performed with distinguished orchestras. The two sisters were nominated for many international awards.

Eric Carle’s timeless classic has made its way off the page and onto the stage. The Show features 3 other stories and a menagerie of 75 magical puppets.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by author/illustrator Eric Carle has delighted generations of readers since it was first published in 1969 selling more than 43 million copies worldwide. The timeless classic has made its way off the page and onto the stage in a masterful theatrical experience for children 4 years old and up.

Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show features a menagerie of 75 magical puppets, faithfully adapting four of Eric Carle’s stories, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Lonely Firefly and of course, the star of the show The Very Hungry Caterpillar who celebrated its 50th Birthday in 2019.

The First Screening in the Middle East

Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre Cinema Hall hosts, Saturday September 24, the first screening in Kuwait of ELIZABETH : A Portrait in Part(s), an archive-based documentary film by late famed British director Roger Michell.
Released in April 2022, under 90 minutes long, the film is a curated collection of archival footage from the 1930s to the 2020s, showing the late Queen Elizabeth II as never seen before.

The most viewed independent band in the world is bringing their biggest hits to Kuwait in September.

The Youtube singing sensation with billions of views, US band Boyce Avenue will bring their biggest hits to JACC’s National Theatre in September. With numerous hit-covers and original songs, the well-known trio, formed in 2004 in Sarasota, Florida, by the three brothers Alejandro, Daniel, and Fabian Manzano, became the most viewed independent band in the world. They were named after a combination of two streets the brothers lived on as children. In 2010, they recorded original music for their full-length debut album, All We Have Left, over their first years as an ensemble, released through their own label, 3 Peace Records. The lead singles from the album were “Every Breath”, “On My Way”, and “Broken Angel”. Boyce avenue has also collaborated with other youtube artists such as Hannah Trigwell, Kina Grannis, Tiffany Alvord, Megan Nicole, Alex Goot, Megan & Liz, David Choi, Tyler Ward, Savannah Outen, to name a few, as well as the x factor season two finalists Fifth Harmony, Beatrice miller, Diamond White and Carly Rose Sonenclar.

Starring Nadine Labaki, Saleh Bakri and Yumna Marwan. Written and directed by Mounia Akl.

The Sheikh Jaber Cultural Centre Cinema programme for October opens with a screening of the internationally co-produced Lebanese drama “Costa Brava, Lebanon”. Written and directed by Mounia Akl, it tells the story of a Lebanese family who decide to leave the toxic pollution of their home city of Beirut, hoping to build a utopian existence in a pristine home in the mountains.

The film, world premiered in Venice Film Festival 2021, stars Nadine Labaki, Saleh Bakri and Yumna Marwan. It has also won the FIPRESCI International Critics Prize at El Gouna Film Festival and was selected as the Lebanese entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 94th Academy Awards.

Starring Samir Guesmi, Abdelrani Bendaher, Luàna Bajrami and Rabah Nait Oufella. Directed by French-Algerian director Samir Guesmi.

European Cinema fans can expect to see its recent productions at JACC Cinema, starting with Ibrahim” (2020), a feature film by French-Algerian filmmaker Samir Guesmi. The French film centers on Ibrahim, a young man who tries to regain his father’s trust after he made some bad friendships which embarrassed his migrant conservative father.

With more than 90 films and television shows since 1988, the French actor Samir Guesmi, 53 years old, moves to the other side of the camera. His debut film won four awards at the Angoulême Francophone Film Festival including the Best Film and Best Direction awards.

Baroque legend Antonio Vivaldi’s most famous works for violin “The Four Seasons” presented by the Ahmadi Music Group, featuring prominent international soloist, Manuel Druminski.

The Ahmadi Music Group, conducted by Richard Bushman, opens the classical concerts of the 22/23 season on 14-15 October with one of Baroque legend Antonio Vivaldi’s most famous pieces for violin “The Four Seasons”. The Italian composer wrote hundreds of works for orchestra and for violin, but none is better known and more loved than his “Four Seasons”.  It is a vivid musical description of the natural world that Vivaldi saw around him, including storms and lightning, barking dogs, and buzzing flies.  With this piece, Vivaldi invented a new musical genre, “program music”, in which the notes tell a specific story and paint a specific picture.

The concert will also include two more concertos for violins and strings. Kuwait’s oldest orchestra, the Ahmadi Music Group will recapture the powerful energy and crisp momentum of Vivaldi’s great works, featuring prominent international soloist, Manuel Druminski.

Starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid. Directed by Michael Curtiz.

For lovers of classics, the Cinema of the Centre will be screening your favourites, starting with one of the most enduring romances in movie history “Casablanca”. The American romantic drama directed by Michael Curtiz, and starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid, is filmed and set during World War II. It focuses on an American expatriate (Bogart) who must choose between his love for a woman (Bergman) or helping her and her husband (Henreid), a Czech resistance leader, escape from the Vichy-controlled city of Casablanca to continue his fight against the Germans.

Casablanca won the Oscars for best picture, director, and screenplay, and was nominated for lead actor, supporting actor, cinematography, editing, and music. The American Film Institute ranked it No. 2 on its 1998 list of the best American movies of all time.

Starring: Saba Mubarak, Farah Bsieso, Hanan Hillo, Mariam Al-Basha and Khaled Al-Tarifi. Written and directed by Zaid Abu Hamdan

Contemporary Arab Cinema will always be present at our monthly screenings. The debut feature by Jordanian filmmaker Zaid Abu Hamdan, Daughters of Abdulrahman, released in 2021, is one of October’s highlights. Starring Saba Mubarak, Farah Bsieso, Hanan Hillo, Mariam Al-Basha and Khaled Al-Tarifi, it tells the story of four estranged sisters, who come together despite their personal differences to find their suddenly missing father. In their searching journey, secrets are revealed, and more question marks are raised.

The movie marked its world premiere at the 2021 Cairo International Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award, followed by another Audience Award at FEST New Directors New Films Festival in Portugal.  The Award-winning film was also featured in the inaugural Red Sea International Film Festival and the opening night of Malmö Arab Film Festival in Sweden.

For the first time in forever, celebrate all the Disney Princesses in an unforgettable evening of songs, animation, and stories.

For the first time in forever, iconic songs from Disney films by Disney princesses Belle, Jasmine, and Anna which we enjoyed for generations, will descend on the National Theatre in the Disney Princess – The Concert from 19 to 22 October.

A quartet of Broadway and television icons will celebrate these beloved songs on stage in Disney Princess – The Concert! Broadway’s Aisha Jackson (‘Anna’ in Frozen), Arielle Jacobs (‘Princess Jasmine’ in Aladdin), Steffanie Leigh (‘Mary Poppins’ in Mary Poppins), and Disney Channel star Anneliese van der Pol (‘Belle’ in Beauty and the Beast and ‘Chelsea Daniels’ on That’s So Raven/Raven’s Home) combine forces in this concert of a lifetime, joined by their magical Music Director, Jacob Yates (Hadestown) and enchanting Prince, Adam Josef (Moulin Rouge). Your every dream will come true as larger than life animation and theatrical effects immerse the audience in pure Disney magic, while these acclaimed stars sing the music of every Disney Princess and share their exclusive, hilarious and heartfelt behind-the-scenes stories from their time on the stage and screen.

An action-packed documentary following the ordeal of two extreme Egyptian athletes, Omar Samra and Omar Nour, who enter a high-profile open-ocean rowing race. Directed by globally renowned director Marco Orsini

For those wanting to see an action-adventure documentaries, the Cinema Hall presents “Beyond the Raging Sea”, a film by globally renowned director Marco Orsini. It tells the story of the world’s toughest rowing challenge faced by Egyptian adventurer Omar Samra and Egyptian triathlete Omar Nour – an unsupported, 3,000 nautical mile journey from the Canary Islands to Antigua. That experience narrated by those who lived it, capturing what they endured, what they felt and what it meant.

Premiered at the El Gouna Film Festival 2019, the film was first screened to a large audience as a ‘work-in-progress’ at the Cannes Film Festival 2018. It also made first international screening at Berlinale 2020

Made under the patronage of the UN Refugee Agency, the action-adventure documentary had a special screening to commemorate World Refugee Day in Cairo in 2021. Simultaneously, the film screened online within the events of Hong Kong’s 14 th Charity Refugee Film Festival.

 An American band who integrates their style into different genres of music, creating new and unconventional pieces.

The Recital Hall hosts on Wednesday 26 October, the American band, Huntertones, to perform genuine, skillfully executed music bending composition and unconventional covers.

Based in New York, the Huntertones use their instruments to bring people together with fun, imaginative, and fearless music. Using high-energy sounds, the band integrates their style into different genres of music, creating new and unconventional pieces.

The band performs mashups of musical pieces from many different artists, including Stevie Wonder, Queen, and Michael Jackson. The Huntertones are highly skilled in many musical instruments, allowing them to shift from a lively six-piece ensemble to a trio featuring a sousaphone, saxophone, and beat-boxing during their performances. After a decade of performing, the Huntertones have toured in over 20 countries worldwide and continue to tour the US and abroad, astounding their audiences and inspiring artists wherever they go.

PSYCHO (1960) Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh star in Alfred

Hitchcock’s chilling study of madness and murder at the Bates Motel.

Phoenix secretary Marion Crane (Janet Leigh), on the lam after stealing $40,000 from her employer in order to run away with her boyfriend, Sam Loomis (John Gavin), is overcome by exhaustion during a heavy rainstorm. Traveling on the back roads to avoid the police, she stops for the night at the ramshackle Bates Motel and meets the polite but highly strung proprietor Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins), a young man with an interest in taxidermy and a difficult relationship with his mother.

Inspired by true events, FARHA tells the story of a young girl whose dreams change from seeking an education in the city to survival in Palestine 1948.

Farha is a 14-year-old girl who lives in a small village in Palestine, 1948. Girls her age are traditionally married off or spoken for, yet Farha wants to continue her education despite traditions and the restrictions of schooling in her village for boys only. Inseparable from her best friend Farida, who lives in the city but who spends weekends in the village, Farha dreams of joining her at a school in the city. Life in the village is threatened and aggressively changed by the looming danger. Just when Farha’s father is finally convinced and Farha’s dream is at last coming true, the danger comes closer to their village. As violence escalates, Farha is brutally separated from Farida.

Terrorized for his daughter’s safety and fearing for her life, Farha’s father locks her up in a concealed, small food storage space by the house, promising to return. But he never does. Over the course of the next few days, Farha undergoes a life-changing experience while buried in the tight dark space, her only connection to the outside world is a small hole in the wall and a few cracks in the wooden door. Farha witnesses a lot of events, outside and inside the room, setting off her journey of transformation and forcing her to grow up and leave her childhood behind.

A musical concert celebrating the role of the oud instrument in Arabic music and presenting the most beautiful works of popular singers and composers to be performed by Abdulaziz Ahmed and Abdulaziz Al-Misbah and the musical ensemble led by Maestro Jarrah Al-Hadari.

Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall hosts a special evening celebrating the role of the oud instrument in Arabic music and the Gulf and presenting the most beautiful works of popular singers and composers. The concert will be performed by Abdulaziz Ahmed and Abdulaziz Al-Misbah and the musical ensemble conducted by Maestro Jarrah Al-Hadari.

For Centuries, the Oud instrument acted as an ambassador to the cultures of the world. It has been considered one of the oldest and most important instruments within Arabic music. The Oud has been adapted in so many shapes over the years to suit a variety of musical genres, while it still has not lost the mystical and amazing unique flair that gives it its prominence in the world of music today.

It is titled the “King of Instruments” and is the favourite among professional musicians and amateurs. In Kuwaiti society, the oud instrument has occupied a distinguished position all along its musical heritage.

The concert, “Oudak Ranan”, will highlight the beloved songs by popular khaleeji artists, in which the oud has made a remarkable mark in tunes and melodies. The audience will enjoy relistening to these works performed by the two talented singers and the virtuosi musicians.

This season, we reopen the Amphitheatre concerts with “Jalsat” evenings, starting with the renowned singer Khaled bin Hussein, accompanied by the musical ensemble led by the Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud.

Welcoming sweet November and its beautiful evening breezes, we reopen the Amphitheatre concerts with “Jalsat”, starting with a concert for the renowned singer Khaled Bin Hussein on Thursday, November 3, accompanied by musical ensemble led by the Maestro Ahmed Al-Oud.

In this concert, we relive the musical intimacy of the “Jalsat” evenings, in our Amphitheatre, away from closed halls, where the audience gathers on its steps to listen to a compilation of songs of the beloved popstar, in addition to classics. Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been uniquely distinguished for its singing sessions “Jalsat” which were filled with the artistic creativity of stars and singers of the golden days, who achieved great fame in those sessions and entertained us with the arts of “Sawt”, “Samri” and other authentic folk arts that we still remember in the voices of Saud Al-Rashed and Awadh Dokhi, and the stars of the seventies and eighties, Abdulkareem Abdulqader, Mustafa Ahmed, Saleh Al-Huraibi, Rashid Al-Hamali and Yousef Al-Mutref, all the way to the young singers today.

A night of authentic music, in which the audience will enjoy the traditional arts performed by the renowned singer Salman Al Ammari and Al-Mass Folklore group.

Once again, a night of authentic music is renewed this season, in which the audience will enjoy the local arts performed by the renowned singer Salman Al Ammari and Al-Mass Folklore group, at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall, on Friday November 4.

The famous artists will take us on a trip to the nineteenth century until the first half of the twentieth century, when Kuwaiti society and its arts were established, performing the dances, tunes and melodies engraved in our hearts.

The programme combines all genres and types of Kuwaiti musical heritage such as Samri, Dawari, Hadadi and Sawt (Sound). The latter begun in Kuwait before other Gulf emirates, when the Kuwaiti artist Abdullah Al-Faraj brought with him from India the Oud instrument. He started playing it for his friends and visitors, in his famous diwaniya titled “Dekheina”, initiating that art which became essential in Samrat and Jalsat (Singing sessions). It is the only local type of music that requires the presence of Oud instrument beside the merwas(small drum), while other musical genres such as Samari and Naqazi rely on percussions and drums.

Veteran singer Salman Al-Ammari will perform a compilation of sawt types, including Shami, khayyali, and Arabic sawt, along with other works of authentic arts which Al-Ammari is keen to perform in traditional way, educating new generations about their heritage.

Starring: Faisal Al-Zahrani, Marwa Mohamed, Sanaa Bakr Younes, Mohamed Al-Hashem. Written and directed by Saudi director Khaled Al-Harbi

On his feature directorial debut, 90 Days, Khaled Al-Harbi, one of the most prominent names in the Saudi TV and theatre industry tackles stories that address Saudi and Arab communities.

Dr. Sara refused to marry until she finds the right one, and when that man comes along, she marries him hoping for a good life ahead. However, she finds out a dark secret that he has been keeping from her. She asks for divorce but her father insists that she spends the 90 days of “Iddah”, at her husband’s house. During that period, a series of surprises takes place and turns the couple’s life upside down.

Starring: Penélope Cruz, Antonio Banderas, Oscar Martínez and Carlos Hipólito. Written and directed by Mariano Cohn and Gastón Duprat.

A Spanish comedy released in 2022. It stars Penélope Cruz, Antonio Banderas and Oscar Martínez. The plot turns around a billionaire businessman who in search of significance and social prestige, decides to make a film to leave his mark. To do so, he hires the best: a stellar team formed by famous filmmaker Lola Cuevas (Penélope Cruz) and two renowned actors, both enormously talented, but with even bigger egos: the Hollywood actor Félix Rivero (Banderas) and radical theater thespian Iván Torres (Martínez). Both legends, but not exactly the best of friends. Through a series of increasingly eccentric challenges set by Lola, Felix and Iván must face not only each other, but also their own legacies.

A West End musical play based on Britain’s best-loved picture book by Judith Kerr, adapted and directed by David Wood.

Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated smash hit show, The Tiger Who Came to Tea is coming to the Drama Theatre.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea play is based on the 1968 short story by Judith Kerr and is one of the best-selling children’s books of all time. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger!

Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised! Suitable for children aged 2+.

Starring: Saleh Bakri, Rita Hayek, Fadi Abi Samra and Said Serhan. Written and directed by Michel Kammoun.

Lebanese writer and director’s Michel Kammoun’s second feature Beirut Hold’em uses gambling to frame the lives of the urban poor in his native city of Beirut, with the title taking its name from a popular local card game. The film premiered at the inaugural edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival, December 2021.

Palestinian actor Saleh Bakri stars as Ziko, a 40-year-old ex-con gambler, struggling to rebuild his life after a few years in prison. The story joins him as he arrives back in Beirut, where he finds his family fractured by his younger brother’s death, his girlfriend preparing to emigrate, and all his money stolen. When he is not scraping together cash, he hangs out with his three boyhood friends who fight their way up through their lower-middle class Beirut. In a country on the edge of war and bankruptcy, sheer existence is a form of gambling and everyday life feels like a casino roulette.

Starring Marion Cotillard and Melvil Poupaud and directed by Arnaud Desplechin.

The French drama film made its world premiere at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival where it competed for the Palme d’Or and was released in theaters in France on the same day as its Cannes premiere, on 20 May 2022.

The story revolves around a brother and sister who are nearing their fifties – Alice is an actress, Louis was a teacher and a poet. They no longer speak to one another and have been avoiding each other for over twenty years, but the death of their parents will force them to cross paths.

In the first stop of his global farewell tour, the legendary opera singer José Carreras will perform the most beautiful arias and songs in a unique show, honouring his life in music.

In the first stop of his global farewell tour, the legendary opera singer José Carreras, one of the great three tenors, will perform at JACC on 24-26 November, a glorious list of the world’s greatest arias, love songs in a unique multimedia show highlighting the rich and multifaceted career of the great singer. He will be accompanied by famed Spanish conductor David Giménez leading the Ruse State Opera Orchestra.

José Carreras occupies a privileged position in the music world. Born in Barcelona, he studied music in his hometown. In 1970 he started his professional career in the Gran Teatre del Liceu of Barcelona. His meteoric musical career resulted in early debuts at the world’s most prestigious opera theatres and festivals, including the Theatre alla Scala of Milan ; the New York Metropolitan Opera House; San Francisco Opera; the Vienna Staatsoper; London’s Royal Opera House among many others. He has collaborated with the most renowned orchestras and his repertoire includes over sixty operas. In 1990 the first Three Tenors concert, by José Carreras together with his colleagues Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti, took place in the Baths of Caracalla in Rome on the eve of the 1990 FIFA World Cup finals. The 3 Tenors concerts continued in a series of large concerts from 1990 to 2003 and are now legendary.

The most popular love scenes, from seven different classical operas in an innovative magical performance never seen before in the world of opera.

Once more, the National theatre welcomes an innovative opera production, the “Opera D’amore”, on 25November. It is an author’s opera show bringing together duets, arias and overtures from the greatest romantic operas of all time, in the most creative way ever imagined.

With the marvelous music by Verdi, Puccini, Mascagni, Donizetti, Leoncavallo and other titans of the classical repertoire, this enchanting stroll introduces us to the most popular love scenes, from seven different operas. It is a true celebration of love and music combined, taking the classical opera to the 21^st century with spectacular 3D visual effects and interactive stage décor, showing an innovative magical performance never seen before in the world of opera.

The “Opera D’amore” created by ASARA features six world star performers, extraordinary dancers, a storyteller will walk us through every act, under the direction of the famed Spanish conductor David Giménez leading the Ruse State Opera Orchestra and Choir.

Speed of Trust – A masterclass & workshop on leadership development

Trust is the new currency of our time, says Stephen M.R. Covey, the global speaker and New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Covey, who wrote The Speed of Trust will be giving a master class and workshop on leadership development on December 7, 2022.

Bring your colleagues and attend the “Leading at the SPEED of TRUST” masterclass based on the world’s best-selling book on trust. You will learn the research-validated framework, language, and process for creating a high-trust culture. Trust can be deliberately developed and leveraged in any organization, not only to achieve your most important, immediate goals, but also to become the foundation of an ongoing winning culture

This fast-paced and engaging masterclass and presentation will:

1.Make the business and economic case for trust.

2.Show how the ability to generate trust, is the critical leadership competency in this new, global economy.

3.Demonstrate how to master the skill of creating trust—both personally and in your organization.

Platinum Ticket Holders are eligible for:

1. Lunch
2. Meet & greet with Stephen M.R. Covey
3. Photo Opportunity.

Silver Category is strictly to students. (Please present your student ID at gate).

One of the world’s most celebrated illusionists who is internationally renowned for his mesmerizing and award-winning illusion spectacular. 

One of the world’s most celebrated illusionists, Rob Lake’s mind-blowing illusions dazzle and entertain millions across network television, in Times Square, on the Vegas strip, Atlantic City, Atlantis Bahamas, and before sold-out audiences in casinos, arenas, and theatres worldwide. His astonishing original illusions are uniquely presented as awe-inspiring storytelling on the grandest scale.

Named “The World’s Greatest Illusionist” by NBC, Rob is internationally renowned for his mesmerizing and award-winning illusion spectacular.  He has sold Millions of Dollars in tickets around the world. In 2008, Rob became the youngest magician in history to receive the holy grail of the magic world — The Merlin Award – as ‘International Stage Magician of the Year.’ This award is magic’s highest honor and the industry equivalent of an Oscar.

Rob serves as magic consultant for network TV series, feature films, commercials, world famous theme parks, and theatrical shows.  Rob’s magical creations can be seen in numerous theatrical productions across the globe including multiple upcoming Broadway productions, hit musical The Phantom of the Opera, and in over 1,000 productions of Disney’s Beauty & the Beast.

In December’s beautiful weather, we relive the atmosphere of Kuwaiti distinguished Samrat at the Amphitheatre with Ali Abdullah.

In the beautiful warm weather of December, we relive the musical intimacy of Samrat (singing sessions) at the Amphitheatre, listening to unforgettable songs performed by Kuwaiti and khaleeji singers. The first night will be held on December 15^th, starring the popular singer Ali Abdullah who, accompanied by his oud, will perform a compilation of Hadhrami musical heritage along with famous songs by greatest gulf artists.

Throughout its artistic history, Kuwait has been uniquely distinguished for its singing sessions “Samrat” which were filled with the creativity of composers and singers of the golden days, from the sixties to the eighties. Those sessions included thousands of songs whose recordings still carry many memories from an amazing and unforgettable evenings.

The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre is keen to celebrate our musical legacy with these singing sessions and include them in its cultural seasons, giving the audience from all ages the opportunity to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of Samrat and Jalsat, and to listen to a number of singers known for their mastery of folkloric songs.

Another Jalsat evening awaits you at the Amphitheatre, starring the popular Bahraini singer Khaled Fouad.

The Amphitheatre Jalsat evenings (musical gatherings) is coming again on Friday, December 16, with the masterpieces of Bahraini and Gulf musical heritage performed by Khaled Fouad.

The young Bahraini artist, Khaled Fouad, reached stardom creating his own style of performing old songs in a contemporary way along with his own works. He has gained a large fan base, from all ages not only in Bahrain but all over the region. Fouad excelled in doing covers of most popular songs of great khaleeji singers but with a modern twist. The young artist was one of the performers of “Jalsat” evenings at the Amphitheatre in our last season.

Starring: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, John Heard, Catherine O’Hara. Directed by Chris Columbus.

The holiday movie season is officially in full swing, enjoy watching one of the most popular Christmas movies on the big screen, Home Alone, the first in the same title franchise. The plot turs around Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy, who defends his suburban Chicago home from burglars after his family leaves him behind on their Christmas vacation to Paris.

Home Alone, released in November 1990, grossed 476.7 million dollars worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing live-action comedy until 2011. It was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for Culkin, and for the Academy Award for Best Original Score for John Williams, and Best Original Song for “Somewhere in My Memory”.

Since the Christmas-themed film premiered in theaters back in 1990, it has become a staple to watch each gift-giving season. Even if you’ve seen the movie a thousand times already, it will be a rare chance to see festive favourite in the cinema.

Following the success of Aden Nights concerts during the summer season, fans will be able to enjoy them again at the Amphitheatre. It will feature well-known singers who have mastered Hadrami songs in “Jalsat” and “Samrat” (musical sessions and gatherings). The first night, Thursday, December 22, will be performed by the acclaimed artist Fawaz Al-Marzouq, and the Omani singer and composer Majid Al-Mukhaini.

Yemeni music is considered to be the richest musical heritage in the region. Its influence spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and left a deep mark on each country’s music and song legacy, especially Kuwait, where Yemeni music styles, such as the Adani, heavily influenced Kuwait’s artists. As well, “Samrat” and “Jalsat” are considered part of the Kuwaiti social heritage. During these sessions, Kuwait’s artistic history was shaped by the creativity of composers and singers.

A monthly screening highlighting local indie movies. This month, we will show three animated short films.

During the past decade, Kuwait’s film industry has flourished with dozens of young filmmakers who have made exquisite experiences in the fields of animated films, documentaries, and features. “An Insight into Kuwaiti Films”, is a monthly screening series organized by the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre Cinema Hall to highlight these independent works. The screening will be followed by an in-depth discussion with the filmmakers.

Our Saturday, December 24, screening will feature three animated short films. Yousef Al-Bagshi’s “For the Sake of Yousef,” is about a 5-year-old boy who plays in the living room when his mother turns the TV channel to watch a horror movie. In the second film, “A Donkey, A Giant and A Monster,” Fai Al-Omran brings back three retired old boogeymen who are sharing a nostalgic afternoon reminiscing about their past professions.

The third film, “The Grass Is Always Greener When It Isn’t Covered in Chocolate,” Hala Al-Homoud follows the journey of a discontent young sheep who leaves his monotonous farm to seek adventures in the wide world.

Following the success of Aden Nights concerts during the summer season, fans will be able to enjoy them again at the Amphitheatre. It will feature well-known singers who have mastered Hadrami songs in “Jalsat” and “Samrat” (musical sessions and gatherings). Adel Al-Mass and Talal Al-Saydalani will be starring the second night, on Friday, December 23.

Yemeni music is considered to be the richest musical heritage in the region. Its influence spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and left a deep mark on each country’s music and song legacy, especially Kuwait, where Yemeni music styles, such as the Adani, heavily influenced Kuwait’s artists. As well, “Samrat” and “Jalsat” are considered part of the Kuwaiti social heritage. During these sessions, Kuwait’s artistic history was shaped by the creativity of composers and singers.

A musical evening at the Amphitheatre featuring Tariq Al-Khurayef and Sultan Al-Muftah.

“Hawed Al-leil” (Through the NighT), the hugely popular song by late singer Aisha Al-Marta, inspired this musical evening which travels us back to a time of genuine traditional music. The concert aims to revive Kuwaiti musical heritage through the work of great artists such as Al-Marta and many more. A compilation of traditional songs engraved in our hearts and memories will be performed by the acclaimed singers Tarek Al-Khurayef and Sultan Al-Moftah on Thursday, January 5, 2023, at the Amphitheatre.

With similar events and evenings, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre seeks to preserve the traditional musical nights that were an important part of Kuwaiti culture. Additionally, to present the different types of folkloric styles like Sawt (the art of sound), Samri, Khumari, Naqazi, and others, which have been enjoyed generation after generation and still continuously performed by artists today in their own way and style, while preserving the essence of these timeless pieces.

Starring: Kayije Kagame, Guslagie Malanda, Valérie Dréville, Aurélia Petit. Directed by Alice Diop.

French documentary filmmaker Alice Diop’s first narrative feature telling the story of Rama, a pregnant young novelist, who attends the trial of Laurence Coly, a Senegalese woman accused of murdering her 15-month-old child by leaving her on a beach to be swept away by the tide. It is based on the 2016 French court case of Fabienne Kabou, who was convicted of the same crime.

The film premiered in-competition at the 79th Venice International Film Festival, where it won the Silver Lion Grand Jury prize along with the Luigi De Laurentiis Lion of the Future award. Additional screenings were held at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival and the 2022 New York Film Festival before the theatrical release in France on 23 November 2022. The film was selected as the French entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 95th Academy Awards.

A treasure-hunting entertaining tale that will end with the crowning of the first millionaire in the inaugural Kanz Draw account.

The Drama Theatre presents on Thursday 12 January the one-night exclusive performance of Bank Burgan’s play “Burgan’s Kanz”, a unique artistic endeavor and a first for the Banking industry in Kuwait. The grand theatrical production tells a story inspired by the history and heritage of Kuwait, in a special production by Burgan Bank in collaboration with Partners, featuring a company of talented young Kuwaiti artists. In the closing act of the play, the Bank is set to crown its first millionaire in the inaugural Kanz Draw account, who will walk away with the grand prize of KD 1,500,000.

The play follows the journey of Najm, a young boy who ventures into the dunes of Burgan in search of a legendary treasure. The original-scripted play was written and directed by Ahmed Mohamed Al-Awadhi, stars Yaqoub Abdullah, Ghouroor Safar, Ahmed bin Hussein and Wadha Al Roumi with the talented media personality Bibi Al-Khudari as a guest. The finale song will be performed by popular singer Mutref Al-Mutref, lyrics and music by Bashar Al-Shatti. The show also features sound production  by Rabi’e Al-Sidawi, set design by Briza Al-Roumi and Hammoud Al-Amiri, lighting by Abdullah Al-Nassar, costume design by Hessa Al-Abad and decoration by Muhammad Behbehani.

Starring: Darina Al-Joundi, Basim Hajar, Meriam Abbas and Mahmoud Abo Al-Abbas. Co-written and directed by Maysoon Pachachi.

In her first narrative feature film, iraqi veteran documentary director Maysoon Pachachi takes us to Baghdad in the last week of 2006, between Christmas and the Adha Eid. It tells the stories of ordinary Iraqis trying to live their everyday lives in Baghdad, the capital; despite unpredictable violent events, which put them in peril. Sara, a single mother and novelist, shocked into silence by the surrounding violence, has been unable to write one word of fiction. She and her neighbours let us into their everyday lives, as they struggle to resist the fragmentation of their world. Shortly before the New Year, following unexpected news, Sara and her neighbours brace themselves for an uncertain future while trying to sustain a fragile sense of hope.

Landing its world premiere at Sarajevo Film Festival 2021, Our River…Our Sky started its  festival tour featuring Cairo IFF, Slemani IFF, Amman IFF, and at Franco-Arab Film Festival in Baghdad. The film was also selected for Arab film festivals in San Francisco, Berlin, and Rotterdam and met with well-attended screenings at the Arab World Institute in Paris and Institut Lumière in Lyon, France. Before the end of the year, the Iraqi film won the $100,000 IWC Filmmaker Award at Dubai International Film Festival.

Starring: Sandra Drzymalska, Lorenzo Zurzolo, Mateusz Kościukiewicz and French veteran actress Isabelle Huppert. Directed by Jerzy Skolimowski.

Inspired by Robert Bresson’s 1966 film Au Hasard Balthazar, the 2022 drama-road film EO follows the life of a donkey wandering through modern Poland. At age 84, legendary director Jerzy Skolimowski (The Deep End, Moonlighting) has directed one of his spryest, most visually inventive films, following the travels of a peripatetic donkey named EO.

After being removed from the only life he’s ever known in a traveling circus, EO begins a journey across the Polish and Italian countryside, experiencing cruelty and kindness, captivity versus freedom. The film, rare animal picture that’s not aimed at kids, premiered in competition at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2022, where it won the Jury Prize. It was submitted by Poland for the 2023 Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, making the shortlist.

A new musical evening at the Amphitheatre coming on Friday 27 January.

“Jalsat” evenings will continue at the Amphitheatre in January, taking advantage of the lovely winter weather, starring the acclaimed singer and composer Yousef Al- Omani who will perform, on Friday 27^th , a compilation of his songs as well as classical works from the Khaleeji repertoire.

Known for his diverse production and his unparalleled experience in singing and composing, including mixing English with Arabic in his songs, the Kuwaiti artist has made him well known across the Arab world, especially in North Africa, where he has excelled at singing in their dialects and composing in their various musical genres, making him popular in all over. He also composed songs for Kuwaiti veteran singer Abdullah Al-Ruwaished and Lebanese popstar Myriam Fares during the course of his career as a composer.

Yousef Al-Omani began singing and composing at an early age. In 1994, he won first place in the “Amateur Artists” competition. During the year 2000, he won an Arabic singing contest with his song “Enta Al-Hob” (You Are My Love). In Kuwait, he was also awarded the first prize in playing oud.

Besides his first two albums, Khabarna and Ahla Ethnen, Al-Omani also released several albums with his name or for his “Jalsat” (musical gatherings). Over the past few years, he has released many singles that have received high online viewership.

A monthly screening highlighting local indie movies. This month, we will show three short narrative films.

During the past decade, Kuwait’s film industry has flourished with dozens of young filmmakers who have made exquisite experiences in the fields of animated films, documentaries, and features. “An Insight into Kuwaiti Films”, is a monthly screening series organized by the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre Cinema Hall to highlight these independent works. The screening will be followed by an in-depth discussion with the filmmakers.

This month, fans of indie films will be able to watch three short narratives. The first, Bait Oboy by Noora Almusallam, addresses the issue of demolishing Kuwait’s old houses through the story of Musaad and his father. The second film, The Story in Short by Abdulaziz Al-Ballam’s, revolves around the story of a cleaner who becomes a restaurant manager by accident. Lastly, Ali by Meqdad Al-Kout depicts two days in the life of the main character when he was 12 and 32.

For the first time, the Cinema Hall presents six award-winning Egyptian short films.

As part of the Cinema Hall’s goal to screen short films from around the world, a screening will be dedicated to Egyptian short films on January 31. Egyptian cinema has been known as the pioneering industry in the Arab world. The first silent Egyptian film was produced in 1917, and the first talking movie, Zainab, was produced in 1923.

Egyptian cinema was also the first in the Arab world to make short films, but they did not gain much popularity for several reasons, including the lack of the participation of well-known stars. The situation has changed recently, as we have selected a number of Egyptian short films that have won awards at international festivals, and some even feature professional actors. The upcoming screening will feature six short films produced between 2016 and 2021: “Nada” by Adel Ahmed Yehia, “The Circle” by Mohamed Al-Gohary, “Berries Island” by Khaled Mansour, “Ban Hour” by Ahmed Wafik, “From Inside” by Ramy El-Gabry, and “Zeina” by Ayman Abdel Hamid.

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, this comedy musical brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life on stage.

The greatest fairy tale never told comes to life as never before in Shrek The Musical, the award-winning Broadway show based on the Oscar-winning movie. Join our unlikely hero Shrek and his noble steed Donkey as they embark on a big, bright, musical adventure at the Drama Theatre on 2-11 February.

Produced by Broadway Entertainment Group, this exciting new production has a terrific score, big laughs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery. In the Kingdom of Far Far Away, a reclusive ogre finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess. And all the other characters you know and love, a short-tempered wannabe king, a cookie with an attitude, and over a dozen other classic fairy tale misfits. Featuring all-new songs and outrageous humor, Shrek The Musical is ogre-sized spring holiday fun for the whole family!

Shrek The Musical is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

A concert to celebrate the late Kuwaiti singer Aisha Al-Marta in a unique experience where songs and music will be performed in their pure form without amplification. Dr Khaled Noori will lead a large musical ensemble, composed of 50 virtuoso musicians and singers.

“Without a Microphone” concert series, the unprecedented experience in contemporary Arab music which we presented in our previous seasons, is coming back to Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Musical Hall on February 21. The evening will celebrate the late singer Aisha Al-Marta, known as the Queen of Samri.

The concert represents a journey into understanding Aisha Al Marta musical legacy. As a singer with a raspy gravelly voice, the late artist was known for endearing performances full of sorrow. She also had a distinctive style of singing, which made old Samri songs more popular. In this evening, the audience will enjoy a compilation of Al-Marta’s beautiful songs and the different styles she performed between old and modern Samri, as well as contemporary tunes composed exclusively for her in various types of Kuwaiti music such as Ashouri and Sawt.

And just as music used to be played without amplification for hundreds of years, “Without a Microphone” evenings bring melodies and songs in their purest form, without the use of microphones, mixers, or speakers. In the upcoming evening, Dr Khaled Noori, the conductor, will lead a large musical ensemble, composed of 50 virtuoso musicians and singers. They have been trained for a long time to achieve the highest level of performance. Dr Noori has also rearranged the tunes to suit this special experience.

The Egyptian talented oud player Islam Al-Qasabgy will perform a compilation of music by the greatest Arabic composers.

On March 3, the Recital Hall will host an evening that will honor the greatest oud players in the history of Arabic music, including Mohamed al-Qasabgy, dubbed the king of oud, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Riyad al-Sunbati, Farid al-Atrash, among others. The concert will feature a compilation of their music performed by the Egyptian talented oud player Islam Al-Qasabgy with his band.

Within just a few years, Islam Al-Qasabgy has established a distinguished position and been regarded as the successor to the late oud master Mohamed Al-Qasabgy. As a result, he attained the title of great musician. Throughout his childhood, Islam was exposed to Al-Qasabgy’s music and playing in the orchestra behind the star of Orient Umm Kulthum. As a result, he decided to become a musician and hopes to continue the legacy of the great Qasabgy and other oud masters in the Arab world. The young Egyptian musician has won several awards from music festivals and has performed with Arab superstars such as Muhammad Abdo, Nawal, Angham, Abadi Al-Johar, and others. During the evening, the Egyptian instrumentalist will present a selection of melodies from Egypt, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, as well as a few of his own compositions.

A concert to celebrate the late Yemeni artist Karama Mirsal who had a significant influence on Adani and Yemeni singing in Kuwait.

 The second concert in the “Without a Microphone” series, taking place on March 13^th, will revisit the works of Yemeni artist Karama Mirsal, whose influence on Adani and Yemeni music in Kuwait is undeniable. In 1946, Mirsal was born in Al-Salam neighborhood in the ancient district of Mukalla in Hadramout. As a resident of the same neighborhood as Mohamad Jumaa Khan, the founder of several Yemeni singing styles such as Adani singing, Mirsal was greatly influenced by Khan’s style of composing, singing, and playing the oud. During his career as a renowned musician, Karama Mirsal has presented several timeless songs to the Yemeni musical heritage. In addition, he has contributed greatly to promoting Adani music in Kuwait since his first visit in 1968.

And just as music used to be played without amplification for hundreds of years, “Without a Microphone” evenings bring melodies and songs in their purest form, without the use of microphones, mixers, or speakers. In the upcoming evening, Dr Khaled Noori, the conductor, will lead a large musical ensemble, composed of 50 virtuoso musicians and singers. They have been trained for a long time to achieve the highest level of performance. Furthermore, this concert is being carried out by an expert in Yemeni music who works to make this event a success.

A national historical stage musical presenting Kuwait as it has been seen by others through history and featuring top singing and acting stars.

The National Theatre is hosting from March 15 to 17, the national historical stage musical “The Sidr Pearl” (Kuwait as seen by others through time), produced by the Ministry of Information in collaboration with the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters. The musical portrays significant historical events of Kuwait as recorded by researchers, travelers, and historians through dramatic scenes performed by a group of leading Kuwaiti actors and singers, including the veteran actress Suad Abdullah, the veteran actors Jassim Al Nabhan and Mohamed Al Mansour with the participation of the well-known singers Abdullah Al Ruwaished, Nawal, and Salman Al-Ammari.

This national historical show is based on the idea and dramatic vision of renowned director Abdullah Abdel Rasool. He is also in charge of directing and has collaborated on the dialogue with script writer Mohammad Al Rabah who gathered historical documents and information that were reviewed by the Kuwait Center for Research and Historical Studies.

With hundreds of talents participating, “The Sidr Pearl” is Kuwait’s largest stage musical in recent years. The lyrics and poetry were written by Abdul Rahman Al-Awadi, the music was composed by Mishaal Hussein, the scenography was designed by Hassan Al-Mulla, the costumes by Iman Al-Saif, and the sound effects by Saud Al-Misfir. Additionally, there are numerous groups of performers and dancers, including the Mass folklore  group.

A monthly screening highlighting local indie movies. This month, we will show the trilogy “Al-Awabed” followed by a discussion with the directors.

During the past decade, Kuwait’s film industry has flourished with dozens of young filmmakers who have made exquisite experiences in the fields of animated films, documentaries, and features. “An Insight into Kuwaiti Films”, is a monthly screening series organized by the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre Cinema Hall to highlight these independent works. The screening will be followed by an in-depth discussion with the filmmakers.

This month, the cinema hall is showing the trilogy “Al-Awabed”, three short movies written by Musaed Khaled, Ali Mustafa and Yahya Talib. Al-Awabed means in Arabic peculiar tales that raise surprise and astonishment as each film of the three tells a strange or weird story. The first, titled “The Witch,” directed by Musaed Khaled, tells the story of a woman who seeks the help of a witch to stop her domineering husband’s harm, but her attempts fail. The second, “Garbage bag,” directed by Dawood Al-Shuail, focuses on the disappearance of a maid after cleaning the house completely. As for the last film, “N.Q.M,” directed by Meshaal Al-Hulail, it is about a reckless young man, Saleh, who is kidnapped and imprisoned inside a secret organization called “N.Q.M,” which are the Arabic letters for “Polite Driving Club.” Although the club members try to teach Saleh to drive nicely on the streets, he refuses and tries to run away.

Masterpieces by the leading composers of the 20th century will be performed by Reham Abdelhakim, Hanan Issam, and Mohamed Metwally with the Cairo Opera House Musical Ensemble conducted by Maestro Mohammed Al Mougui.

The gems of tunes and lyrics from the works of the greatest Arabic composers and singers of the 20^th Century will light up the National Theatre on March 19, in the musical evening “Timeless Melodies”, a tribute to artists whose work has survived for decades and is still being remembered throughout the Arab world today. Despite time, their lyrics and tunes shine more and more as we listen to them, and their glamour never fades. Egyptian singers Reham Abdel Hakim, Hanan Issam, and Mohamed Metwally will perform these timeless works with the Cairo Opera House Musical Ensemble conducted by Maestro Mohammed Al Mougui.

In this concert, the audience will be taken on a nostalgic tour of the legacy of the stars of Arabic music’s golden age, starting with Sayed Darwish, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, and Mohamed al-Qasabgui, moving on to Riyad al-Sunbati and Farid al-Atrash, and eventually arriving at Mohamed al-Muogui and Baligh Hamdi, with a compilation of their most beautiful songs composed for magnificent singers, including Umm Kulthum, Asmahan, Laila Murad, to Shadia, Fayza Ahmed, and many others.

This musical evening celebrates poetry and singing together, with poems performed by Lebanese talented singer Walaa Al-Jundi.

 The Arab lyrical heritage has long been characterized by sung poems. In the glory years of Arabic music in the twentieth century, the sung poem established a high artistic musical taste and became one of the most luxurious musicals. Songs of poetry have been sung by singers from all generations, and many poems have gained fame from being presented by great singers. During this evening “Arabic Sung poems”, to be held at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on March 20, the talented Lebanese singer Walaa Al-Jundi will perform a collection of the most beautiful sung poems in Arabic music, along with other songs, accompanied by the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Mohammed Al-Aswad.

The evening’s programme presents several poems by the well-known Kuwaiti poet Abdulaziz Saud Al-Babtain, including “Lan Aslakom” (I Will Not Forget You), for which Walaa Al-Jundi has recently won the “Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal International Prize for Arabic Poetry” in the category of best sung poem. In addition, she will perform famous poems of other singers such as Fairuz and Mohamed Abdel Wahab, as well as two of Umm Kulthum’s masterpieces, “Fat AL-Miaa’d” (Time has passed) and “Alf Leila W Leila” (A Thousand and One Nights”.

This concert takes place as part of the eighteenth session of Abdulaziz Saud Al-Babtain Cultural Foundation, entitled, “Al-Babtain Encyclopedia of Arabic Poets in the Age of Islamic States and Emirates”.

As part of the Eid Al-Fitr festivities, Mutrif Al-Mutrif performs at the National Theatre “jalsat” concert.

As part of Eid Al-Fitr celebrations, the National Theatre is hosting “Eid Jalsat” (singing sessions), featuring on Sunday, April 23, the popular kuwaiti singer Mutrif Al-Mutrif, accompanied by the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Khaled Noori.The event is held as part of the Eid Al-Fitr Jalsat. Al Mutrif will perform a compilation of his own songs as well as songs by other artists, including his late father, Yousef Al Mutrif. It will be an evening to remember.

On the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, the superstar Abdullah Al-Ruwaished performs a “jalsat” concert at the National Theatre.

In celebration of Eid Al-Fitr, the superstar Abdullah Al-Ruwaished returns again to his fans at the National Theatre in Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre. The prominent Kuwaiti singer will present the second concert of “Eid Jalsat” (singing sessions) on April 24.Music lovers will have the opportunity to enjoy the most beautiful songs of Rowaished in the pleasant and joyous atmosphere of the “jalsat” (singing session). The musical ensemble is conducted by Dr Khaled Noori.

An exceptional musical evening featuring Egyptian, Kuwaiti, and Khaleeji songs performed by the Egyptian choir, Rouh Al-Sharq, and Kuwaiti singer Abdulqader Al-Hadhoud.

The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host the Egyptian choir “Rouh al Sharq” (Spirit of the East) on April 26 and 27 with Kuwaiti singer Abdulqader Al-Hadhoud. The Rouh al Sharq choir, composed of talented singers, is known for its acapella performances, which blend originality with contemporary trends.

The choir will perform a selection of songs from Egyptian and Khaleeji musical heritage, including the works of Sayed Darwish, Mohamed Fawzy and Shadia, as well as contemporary songs. With the choir, Kuwaiti singer Abdulqader Al-Hadhoud performs a medley of his songs and those for popular Khaleeji superstars, such as Rabab, Nawal, and Abdullah Al-Ruwaished. In addition, they will perform a medley of patriotic and old Kuwaiti songs.

Rouh Al-Sharq was founded in 2020 by Maestro Mahmoud Mohsen, who had been training students at Ain Shams University in Cairo to sing when he decided to form an independent choir, which began with thirty boys and girls. They became very popular on social media for their videos combining classic and contemporary songs. Over the years, the choir has gained fame and applause throughout the Arab world because of its exceptional performances and artistic excellence.

An evening of music celebrating some of the most renowned Arabic songs from the Gulf, Yemen, Lebanon and Egypt, performed by Zainab Barakat, Mishaal Hussein accompanied by Dr Ayoub Khedr’s ensemble.

The Arabic music heritage is filled with melodies and songs that are as beautiful and dazzling as jewels. On May 10th, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host the concert “Jewels of Arabic Music” that takes us on a trip from the Arabian gulf and Yemen to Lebanon and Egypt through music. This concert features some of the most beautiful, influential, and famous Arabic songs of the twentieth century. They will be performed by Zainab Barakat, Mishaal Hussein, and Rami Abdel-Moneim, accompanied by the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Ayoub Khedr.

A unique characteristic of the event is its geographical diversity as well as the diversity of voice styles and personalities among the original singers. Zainab Barakat will perform Najat, Warda, Fairouz, and Umm Kulthum’s songs, while Rami Abdel-Moneim will sing one of Abdel-Haim Hafez’s most famous songs “Qareat El Fengan” (Tasseography Dame). Mishaal Hussein will showcase works by Khaleeji legendary singers Rabab, AbdulKarim Abdulqader, and Muhammad Abdo. A Khleeji medley will also be performed by the choir.

Oud Fashion Talks (OFT) is returning for a second edition in May 2023, taking place at SJACC on May 11. This event is designed to bring together fashion experts, power players, and industry stakeholders from the region to discuss the importance of sustainable fashion.OFT will create a bridge between Kuwait and the international world of luxury, highlighting the challenges that the fashion and creative industries in the region face. During the event, attendees will be able to participate in panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Additionally, a fashion exhibition will be held to showcase local designers and their works.

10:00AM

How Luxury Retail is Evolving in the GCC

Imran Amed+ Avijit Yadav+ Mohammad A. AlMarzook

11:15AM

Forging Fashion Unicorns: Making Kuwaiti fashion firms an attractive investment, from solo start-ups to pan industry initiatives

Louise Nichol + Mohammad Jaffar

12:30PM

Shaping a New Era of Arab Style: Delivering the aesthetic and environmental demands of Gen Z

Khairunisa Suhail + Shahad AlSabeeh + Louise Nichol

Lunch 1:00PM – 2:00PM

02:00PM

Conversation with Gulf Bank

Lujain AlQenaei + Louise Nichol

02:15PM

Creating the Future of Fashion: Why influence matters more than ever

Moon Baz+ Maxim Sapazhnikov+ Louise Nichol

03:30PM

Fashion in the Middle East Optimism and Transformation

Imran Amed+ Rachad Tabiaat + Duha AlRamadan

Oud Fashion Talks workshops. Learn the ins and outs between all the creative spaces in fashion from the experts.

The workshop will cover the following topics:
• Instagram tools and best practices for fashion and beauty content creators.
• Success stories and a case study.
• How to use the platform for optimal success.

The leading content creator will talk about breaking through in Fashion, Beauty, Luxury, and Mastering the Keys to self-Realization and Promotion.
Under the title of “Breaking Through in Fashion, Beauty, Luxury, and Mastering the Keys to self-Realization and Promotion”, this workshop with Maxim Sapazhnikov, Founder of F2Max, a leading content creator will cover the following:

• Setting Moonshots: Establishing Ambitious Yet Attainable Goals.
• Preparing for Success: Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses, Determining Your Level of Readiness and Hard Skills.
• Crafting Your Personal Brand: Building Your Image, Positioning Yourself for Success.
• Marketing Yourself: Showcasing Your Talents and Skills on the Global Stage
• Adapting to Trends: Staying Ahead of the Curve and Establishing Your Unique Style
• Networking for Success: Establishing Critical Connections and Collaborations
• Communicating with Clients: Connecting with Your Audience, Providing Exceptional Service.
• Scaling Your Business: Building on Your Success, Expanding Your Reach and Impact.

A workshop on how to create a cohesive collection with Kuwaiti Fashion Designer Bazza Al-Zouman.
“How to create a cohesive collection” will be the topic of this workshop with Kuwaiti Fashion Designer Bazza Al-Zouman. It will cover the following:

• Finding inspiration and turning it into an idea.
• Creating mood boards, what to put on them, and how they can help strengthen your brand and work.
• Starting the design process for your collection.
• How to design a collection so that there is a balance between novelty and consistency (cohesive).
• Overview of everything post designing.
• Discussion and Trouble shooting for any challenges you’re facing.

A workshop with global fashion photographer Patrick Sawaya.
This workshop with global fashion photographer Patrick Sawaya will cover the following topics:

• Learning the fundamentals of Fashion Photography.
• How to take your passion into the next step.
• Expanding globally in the field of Fashion Photography.
• Building a brand in the Photography World.

Omar Rahbany embarks on a creative journey exploring the music of his family.

From the Rahbany Brothers and Fairuz’ early beginnings to the height of their success and the Rahbanys that followed, Omar Rahbany will take us on May 17 and 18, at the national theatre on a creative journey exploring the music of his family, ultimately distinguishing his own style as a composer and pianist.

The programme will cover some of the Rahbany classics such as Nassam Alayna al Hawa, Emmi Namet a Bakkir, Nahna wel Amar Jiran, along with hits songs such as Kifak Enta, Kan Anna Tahoun, Mechwar Rayhin Mechwar, with original music from Omar Rahbany’s newest releases. On this evening, the grandson of Mansour Rahbany and the youngest talent of this great family, accompanied by a large orchestra and choir, is combining classical with oriental and world music instruments for a special performance. Omar Rahbany has re-orchestrated all songs and pieces uniquely for the purpose of the Kuwait concerts.

Seven-time ARIA Award winning Joseph Tawadros brings an exciting performance of Oud to the stage.

The Recital Hall hosts on May 23, a special musical evening with Joseph Tawadros a leading Oud virtuoso, composer and 7-time ARIA-award winner. Born in Cairo, the international Australian instrumentalist is known for his brilliant technique, deep musicianship, storytelling and joyous style of performance.

The Middle Eastern flavoured compositions of Joseph blend emotions with boundless energy with influences of traditional arabic music, bluegrass, jazz, and even rock.

He has recorded 19 albums and has performed his own music in some of the world’s most prestigious venues with several orchestras including the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Sydney Symphony, BBC Symphony and with celebrated artists such as Roy Ayers, John Abercrombie, John Patitucci, Jack DeJohnette.

This special evening will feature songs from Greece, France, Italy, Germany, Brazil, Mexico, China, Argentina, and classics of the Arab world.

For the first time in Kuwait and the Arab world, internationally renowned Greek singer Alexandra Gravas will perform her acclaimed concert “Melodies of the World” at Sheikh Jaber Cultural Centre on May 24^th.

This special evening will feature songs from Greece, France, Italy, Germany, Panama, Brazil, Mexico, China, Argentina, Cyprus, and the Arab world performed by this extraordinary artist, who has enchanted with her unique voice and stage presence audiences around the world. Various musical genres are represented in this multicultural evening, from Piaf to Kurt Weill to traditional compositions. The singer created her very special song list inspired by her extensive concert tours around the world from Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Latin America.

Alexandra’s mission in uniting nations through her melodies and at the same time representing her country Greece internationally, her melodies, while representing Greece internationally, has earned her the title of Cultural Ambassador of Greece, as well as the prestigious UNESCO recognition for the arts in Greece.

The concert is held in collaboration with Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) under the patronage of HE the Ambassador of Greece Mr. Konstantinos Piperigos, on the sidelines of the art exhibition “Alexander the Great” with paintings by the great Greek painter Takis Warlamis.

Starring: Ibrahim Khairallah, Asem Alawad, Abdullah Aljafal, Kateryna Kateryna Tkachenko. Written and directed by Mohamed Al Salman.

In his debut feature, Saudi filmmaker Mohamed Al Salman explores the tragicomic and surreal world of Nasser (Asem Alawad), a young man recently diagnosed with a brain tumor. In an unexceptional washout, he encounters an enigmatic and peculiar young woman. Infatuated by her and sick of being a failure, he must quickly figure out what he wants to do in life before he passes through risky surgery. He tries to reach out to the young woman in the most seductive way: a song.

The Raven Song premiered globally at the Red Sea Film Festival last December, and it was also selected to officially represent Saudi Arabia at the 2023 Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Film category. The film is being screened at the Cinema Hall as part of the Arab Film Showcase, which features the latest independent Arab films.

A monthly screening highlighting local indie movies. This month’s screening is part of the Arab Film Showcase.

During the past decade, Kuwait’s film industry has flourished with dozens of young filmmakers who have made exquisite experiences in the fields of animated films, documentaries, and features. “An Insight into Kuwaiti Films”, is a monthly screening series organized by the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre Cinema Hall to highlight these independent works. The screening will be followed by an in-depth discussion with the filmmakers.

This month’s Insight into Kuwaiti Films is part of the Arab Film Showcase (May 26-29), where three short films will be screened. The first, “The Job” by Mariam Al-Abbad, tells the story of Ahmed, who is trying to find a job during hard times. The second, “Radio Musaed”, written and directed by Othman Al-Fulaij, takes place at the time of the invasion, about young Kuwaiti Musaed who established the first home radio station, but there were some obstacles to overcome. The film is based on a true story that happened in the early 1970s. The last film, “Lamia Khonda,” by Khaled Al-Rayes, is also based on a true story of Lamia Khonda, an Iraqi woman living in Kuwait during the Iraqi invasion. As the film is a tribute to the director’s grandmother, who passed away in 2014, it recounts a part of her life as lived by the director.

Starring: Sayed Ragab, Nahed El-Sebai, Ahmed Khaled Saleh. Written and directed by Ahmed Abdalla.

Ahmad Abdalla’s critically acclaimed award-winning film follows a doorman living in an abandoned villa since the 1960s until he meets a neighbour who changes his life. Suddenly, his world is turned upside down by this young man with too much zeal, forcing him to face his fears and his past. It is being screened at the Cinema Hall as part of the Arab Film Showcase, which features the latest independent Arab films.

The film premiered at the 44th Cairo Film Festival and won three awards: Best Arab Film and FIPRESCI Prize and the Henry Barakat Award for Best Artistic Contribution to Mostafa ALkashef, the director of photography. This is Abdalla’s sixth feature film after Heliopolis (2009), Microphone (2010), Decor (2014), and Exterior/Nightt (2018). Abdalla’s films are frequently selected for international festivals.

Starring: Nisrin Erradi, Nisrine Benchara, Rayhan Guaran. Written and directed by Yasmine Benkiran.

In her debut feature, Yasmine Benkiran depicts three women who flee from the police across the rugged red terrain and flower-filled valleys of the Atlas Mountains to reach the Atlantic Ocean. Nisrin Erradi escapes from prison with her teen daughter (Rayhan Guaran) and forces Nisrine Benchara to drive them south.

“Queens”, which was developed at Atlas Workshops, the industry sidebar running alongside Marrakech Film Festival, is a rare Moroccan film that weaves adventure, genre, and strong female protagonists. The film premiered at the 79th Venice International Film Festival (August 2022). Additionally, it screened at the 20th Marrakech Film Festival in January 2023 and the Arab Film Festival in Malmö, Sweden.

In this master class, Sarah and Hajar Abdul Rahman will provide their expertise in the fields of the body language and the humanities. They are considered among the most influential pioneers in the field in the region.

Body language is the nonverbal cues that we use every day, consciously and unconsciously, to communicate. By understanding and decoding body language, we can better understand and interpret what the person is saying. “How to Understand Others Through Body Language” is a masterclass hosted by the conference Centre on June 3 where Sarah and Hajar Abdul Rahman will guide us on how to read people’s true intentions and master our own body language.

Experts in body language and humanities, Sarah and Hajar are among the Arab Gulf’s most influential pioneers. Through their Instagram page, which has over two million followers, and through their books, which topped sales in the Arabian Gulf region, they contributed to the spread of it among the segments of society. They also developed specialized training programmes on body language and sense of security.

An evening of music to celebrate one of the most significant local arts, “The Art of Sawt,” performed by Salah Hamad Khalifa, one of the few artists renowned for performing it.

Throughout the ages, the “art of sawt” has been a fundamental element of singing in the different regions of the Arabian Peninsula. Historically, Kuwait and Bahrain were pioneers in producing and performing this singing art. As a dynamic and evolving art that surrenders to the taste of its performers while performing, Kuwaiti artists have been more successful in preserving and developing it.

As part of the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre’s efforts to promote local arts, The Recital Hall will host a musical evening on June 13, featuring Salah Hamad Khalifa, one of the few artists renowned for performing sawt.

The Sawt is distinguished by poetry such as Al-Humaini and eloquent Arabic poetry, in addition to its specific musical genres and scales such as Shami and Al-Arabi. In the performance of the sawt, musical instruments are also an important element, making it a unique folk art. There have been many musicians and singers in Kuwait, Bahrain and the Arabian Gulf who have excelled at presenting all styles of this art, including Abdullah Al-Faraj, Youssef Al-Bakr, Mohamed bin Faris, Abdullatif and Mahmoud Al-Kuwaiti.

The Lebanese superstar, Najwa Karam, will perform for charity on June 14th. The revenues will go to patients with terminal illnesses in Kuwait and Lebanon.

Lebanese superstar Najwa Karam returns to Kuwait on June 14 at the National Theatre for a concert dedicated to hope. This charity event benefits patients with terminal illnesses in Kuwait and Lebanon and is organized by Beit Abdullah Children’s Hospice in Kuwait and SANAD Home Hospice Care in Lebanon.

The acclaimed singer will perform songs from her entire career, which have put her among the contemporary top Arab singers. In 2017, Forbes magazine ranked her fifth among its Top 100 Arab Celebrities. The career of Najwa Karam began in 1985 when she won the gold medal in the talent show “Layali Lebnan” (Lebanon Nights). After releasing her debut album, “Ya Habayeb” in 1989, she followed it up three years later with “Shams Al-Ghnya” (The Sun of Songs), which enjoyed massive success. She was called the sun of Lebanon’s song by Lebanese journalist Georges Ibrahim El-Khoury using the title of her album.

A new concert from Without a microphone series to celebrate the works of the late star of the Gulf song in the Eighties, Rabab.

A new concert in the “Without a Microphone” series will be held at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on June 20, celebrating the songs of the late renowned singer Rabab. The beginning of Rabab’s career was in 1977, when she won first place in a talent show on Kuwaiti television for her beautiful voice, sincere and unique singing style. A year later, she joined the Kuwaiti radio band’s choir. After two years, in 1980, the great Kuwaiti composer Khaled Al-Zayed discovered this outstanding talent and composed her first song, “Ijrah” (Hurt), which marked Rabab’s breakthrough and led her to become later the star of the Gulf female singers’ scene in the Eighties with a number of beautiful songs that are still fresh in people’s minds.

As a tribute to Rabab’s status and beautifully composed works, we present this concert featuring a collection of her most memorable songs. And just as music used to be played without amplification for hundreds of years, “Without a Microphone” evenings bring melodies and songs in their purest form, without the use of microphones, mixers, or speakers. During the upcoming concert, Dr Khaled Noori, the conductor, will lead a large ensemble of more than 50 virtuosi musicians and singers. They have been trained for a long time to achieve the highest level of classical performance.

In celebration of Eid al-Adha, Mai Farouq, Egypt’s famous singer, performs a splendid concert with the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Mohamed Al-Mougui.

For Eid Al-Adha, Egypt’s powerful voice Mai Farouq will perform at the National Theatre “Layali Al-Ons” (Splendid Nights) concert. Farouq is renowned throughout the Arab world for her outstanding performances of songs by prominent Arab singers. During the concert, she will present works by Umm Kulthum, Abdel Halim Hafez, Sayed Mekkawi, Mayada El Henawi, Zekra, George Wassouf, and others.

Mai Farouq began her singing career with the Egyptian Opera House’s children choir under the direction of the highly regarded conductor Selim Sahab. She sang in front of an audience for the first time when she was eight years old. With her confident performance and strong voice, she caught the audience’s attention. Since then, Farouq has mastered covers of Arabic music’s greatest stars, including Umm Kulthum. Whenever she performs, the listener is guaranteed to feel just as satisfied as if they were listening to the original song. In this concert, through Mai’s voice and performance, together with the music ensemble led by Dr Mohamed Al-Mougui, we relive the golden age of great singers and their splendid musical nights.

This concert celebrates the music and scores from the opening and end credits of the most popular Arabic TV shows.

It was in the 1970s that Arabic television series reached their glory, and theme songs began to appear in their opening and closing credits. With the passing of time, these credits’ themed songs, created by talented lyricists and composers and performed by beautiful voices, evolved into new forms of Arabic singing and music.

A lot of us still remember the songs from shows like “Khalti Kmasha” (My Aunt Kmasha), “Ala El Donia El Salam” (Hopeless World), “Layali Al-Helmia” (Al-Helmia Nights), and countless others which were sung by the beautiful voices of popular singers including Abdullah Al-Ruwaished, Rashid Al-Majid, Ali Al-Hagar, and Mohamed Al-Helou.

Moreover, this new tradition gave famous actors and actresses the opportunity to sing the opening or closing songs, giving their fans the chance to enjoy the singing of their favourite super stars, such as Abdulhussein Abdulredha, Hayat Al Fahd, Suad Abdullah, Suad Hosni, Ahmed Zaki, and Ayman Zaidan. There were also series featuring only music scores, which achieved remarkable success, such as “Darb Al-Zalaq”, “Al-Aqdar” (Destinies), “Al Hajj Metwally Family”, “Al-Jawary” and “Sanawat Al-Diyaa” (Years of lost).

On May 30, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host a musical evening celebrating Arabic TV Dramas’ most famous songs and scores. It will take us on a tour across the Arab world listening to songs from iconic TV shows in Egypt, Syria, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. The musical ensemble of 50 musicians and singers will be led by conductor Dr. Khaled Noori, who has rearranged the songs and scores musically for the live performance.

A concert featuring renowned Kuwaiti singer Abdullah Al-Ruwaished will open the cultural season 23/24 on September 3rd.

The 23/24 cultural season kicks off on September 3rd at the National Theatre with a concert by Ambassador of Khaleeji Song, the superstar Abdullah Al-Ruwaishid, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Egyptian conductor Dr Emad Ashour.

The concert is being held in collaboration with the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature on the occasion of celebrating its Golden Jubilee. The musical night also marks the opening of the 15^th edition of the Council’s Cultural Summer Festival, which will take place from 3 to 17 September 2023.

Fans of the renowned artist can enjoy a compilation of Bu Khaled’s timeless songs, each holding a cherished place in our memory. Al-Ruwaished’s presence at the National Theatre is also an unforgettable memory; as one of the stars of JACC’s opening ceremony in October 2016, Abdullah Al-Ruwaished has participated in most of our significant events and presented concerts and musical sessions. Having him with us at the beginning of our season is indeed a momentous occasion.

This concert will showcase the works of late singer and composer Abu Bakr Salem, known as the father of Khaleeji singing.
In our upcoming 23/24 cultural season, we initiate the “Without a Microphone” series with a concert that pays tribute to the renowned late singer and composer Abu Bakr Salem. This musical event, scheduled to take place at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on September 12, will revisit the late artist’s works. Abu Bakr Salem is famously recognised as the “Father of Khaleeji Singing,” and dubbed “King of Hadhrami Song,” and the “Giant of Sana’ani Song.” As a singer, composer, and poet, Abu-Bakr Salem captivated millions across the Gulf and the Arab region with his enchanting melodies.
Abu Bakr Salem was born in 1939 in Tarim, Hadhramaut in Yemen. In the mid-1950s, he began his musical career at Aden Radio. Later, he decided to move to livelier destinations, carrying his Adeni music along and expanding the reach of Yemeni songs to broader geographical horizons. His first major destination was Beirut in 1958, followed by stops in Cairo and various Gulf capitals. Eventually, he found his way to Jeddah before ultimately settling in Riyadh, where he passed away in December 2017.
During his artistic journey, Abu Bakr Salem released numerous albums and hundreds of songs, showcasing the distinct Hadhrami singing style. This style was prominent in his works, whether through his evocative lyrics and melodies or through his collaborations with fellow Yemeni artists. He also formed a successful duo with Hussein Abu Bakr Al-Mahdhar. Among his famous songs are “Zhabi Al-Yemen” (The Yemeni Gazelle,) “Ser Hobbi” (The Secret of My Love), “Ghayaar” (Jealous) and many more.
“Without a Microphone” evenings bring melodies and songs in their purest form, without the use of microphones, mixers, or speakers. In the upcoming evening, Dr Khaled Noori, the conductor, will lead a large musical ensemble, composed of 50 virtuoso musicians and singers. They have been trained for a long time to achieve the highest level of performance.

The first night of the International Music Festival marks a celebration of the honoured personality of this edition, the great artist Dr Abdelrab Idris with the participation of singers Badr Nouri, Musaed Al Bolushi, and Fahad Al Salem alongside the musical ensemble conducted by Dr. Ayoub Kheder.

The Drama Theatre hosts the 23^rd edition of the International Music Festival, organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature, from September 18th to 22nd, featuring a diverse array of musical performances. This edition’s opening night is dedicated to the honouree, Dr Abdelrab Idris with the participation of singers Badr Nouri, Musaed Al Bolushi, and Fahad Al Salem, and a musical ensemble led by Dr. Ayoub Kheder.

Dr Abdelrab Idris, a Saudi of Yemeni origin, was born in the city of Mukalla in 1946. He studied music at the Higher Institute of Music in Cairo, where he obtained his master’s and doctoral degrees. During the seventies, he worked as a professor at the Higher Institute of Music in Kuwait. In the Arab world, Dr Abdelrab Idris is associated with some of the greatest artists. He composed songs for many of them and collaborated with a wide range of musicians. His most popular songs include “Laila” (One Night), “Ghareeb” (Stranger), “Rud Al Ziara” (Come visit us), “A’itref Lak” (I confess to you), “Wa’dtak” (I promised you), “Al Amakin” (The places), “I’baad” (Far Away), and many more.

This concert recalls the songs of the late Turkish singer Bergen, to be performed by Tuğça Al-Najjar and the musical ensemble conducted by Dr. Bassam Al Baloushi.

From September 18^th to 22^nd, the Drama Theatre hosts the 23^rd edition of the International Music Festival, organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters. The second night of the festival, September 19^th, celebrates the songs of late Turkish singer Bergen, known as the Woman of Pains. Turkish singer Tuğça Al-Najjar will perform Bergen’s most beautiful songs accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Dr. Bassam Al-Baloushi and the participation of the Istanbul Strings Ensemble.

Bergen was one of the most prominent Arabesque music stars in Turkey in the 1980s, breaking sales records with her albums, including her fourth “Woman of Pains”, which its title later became her nickname. She was renowned for her expressive voice and melancholy songs that reflected her bitter personal life. Bergen was tragically killed by her ex-husband who first threw nitric acid on her face resulting in blindness in her right eye. In 2022, a Turkish biopic about her was released bringing her memory and songs back to the forefront.

Within the activities of the International Music Festival, this concert revisits a selection of well-known Kuwaiti, Khaleeji and Arabic songs that are engraved in our memories.

From September 18^th to 22^nd, the Drama Theatre hosts the 23^rd edition of the International Music Festival, organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature. This event, titled “Melodies and Memories,” represents the third night of the festival, featuring the most beautiful Kuwaiti, Gulf, and Arabic songs that have shaped our artistic taste over decades and left cherished memories for their contemporaries and even younger generations.

A medley of Kuwaiti songs will be performed by the choir, as well as some popular khaleeji tunes and an Arabic classics medley. Kuwaiti conductor Dr. Mohammed Al Baijan will lead this performance.

As the honoree of the International Music Festival, Dr Abdelrab Idris will be the guest of a talk about the significant milestones in in his musical career.

The Recital Hall hosts, on Thursday 21 September, a talk with the prominent Saudi composer and singer Dr Abdel Rab Idris, the honoree of this edition of the International Music Festival, organised by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature. The talk, conducted by Musaed Al-Zamel, the Council’s Assistant Undersecretary, will focus on the significant milestones in the guest’s extensive musical career, which began in the early 1960s in Mukalla, Yemen.

Dr Abdelrab Idris has contributed significantly to both khaleeji and Arabic music. He is renowned for his role in preserving the Khaleeji identity through his compositions and songs. His melodies have been interpreted by celebrated Arab singers, including Talal Maddah, Abu Bakr Salem, Mohammed Abdo, Abdulkarim Abdulqader, Abdullah Al-Ruwaished, Abdulmajid Abdullah, Rashed Al-Majed, Rajaa’ Belmelih, Majida El Roumi, and many others.

Attendance is free upon registration through JACC’s app or website.

A musical evening celebrating the works of late composer Mohamed Abdel Wahhab, featuring Samah Siddik and Mohamed Shata, with the musical ensemble conducted by Dr. Mohamed Al-Mougui.

The Drama Theatre will host the closing ceremony of the 23^rd edition of the International Music Festival organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, September 18^th to 22^nd. A concert honoring the late Egyptian composer and singer Mohamed Abdel Wahab dubbed “the musician of generations” will also be held as part of the ceremony. Egyptian singers Samah Seddik and Mohamed Shata will perform a compilation of Abdel Wahab melodies, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Dr. Mohamed Al-Mougui.

Mohamed Abdel Wahab is regarded as one of the most innovative Egyptian composers of all time, having laid the foundation for the new era of Arabic music by introducing novel rhythms and styles. During his long career, which began in 1917 and spanned over six decades, he composed hundreds of songs for himself and other leading Arab singers including Asmahan, Laila Murad, Fairouz, Wadie Al-Safi, Abdel-Halim Hafez, Warda, Shadia and many others. His collaboration with Umm Kulthum was delayed until 1964, when they presented the famous song “Enta Omri” (You Are My Life), which was followed by nine other songs.

In September, the Egyptian singer will perform at JACC after a long absence.

Angham, the Egyptian super star with the enchanting voice and popular songs, returns to her audience at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre, breaking years of absence, to perform at the National Theatre on September 29^th. Despite not being absent from Kuwait, Angham’s last concert at the Centre was during the February 2020 festival.

The Egyptian beloved singer was born into an artistic family, as her father is the late composer Mohamed Ali Sulaiman, and her uncle is the late singer Emad Abdelhalim. Having begun singing at an early age, Angham attained fame in just a few years, becoming one of the most significant Arab singing stars of our time. In addition to her powerful voice, she has distinguished herself through the choice of themes in her songs that express a range of female emotions and experiences. This distinction has placed her in a unique status and earned her the title of the star of her generation.

A new concert celebrating the songs of the late singer Warda performed by Marwa Nagi and Ayaat Farouk from Egypt, Khalaf Al-Masha’ouf from Kuwait with the musical ensemble led by Egyptian conductor Alaa Abdel Salam.

Emerging in an important era of Arabic singing history, the Algerian singer Warda was seen as a successor to the greatest Arab artists. Her beautiful voice, stage presence, and collaborations with acclaimed lyricists and composers put Warda in an iconic stature. She left an impressive legacy with a repertoire exceeding 300 songs during a career which spanned over 60 years. These songs remain timeless and radiant, growing in brilliance even after she passed away.

In celebration of the late artist’s most beautiful works, the National Theatre hosts a musical evening on October 5. The concert will feature rising Kuwaiti singer Khalaf Al-Masha’ouf, and the Egyptian Opera House singer Ayat Farouk, along with the star of “The Voice” talents show Marwa Nagy, who participated in the second season and reached the finals; accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Egyptian conductor Alaa Abdel-Salam.

A lecture exploring our lives, relationships, and contemporary challenges presented by the expert in human behaviour Dr. Khaled Ghattass.

The Conference Centre will host Dr. Khaled Ghattass, a cell biologist, and expert in human behaviour, on Tuesday, December 12th. In his unique and engaging style, he will deliver a lecture titled “You Are Innocent,” exploring our lives, relationships, and contemporary challenges.

Dr. Ghattass began sharing his ideas and opinions on social media in 2016, reaching millions of followers across various platforms. Over the past seven years, he has leveraged his writings, lectures, social media influence and traditional media presence to contest widely spread misleading and/or misinterpreted concepts that are posing significant dilemmas and challenges on contemporary individuals, families, and societies in the Arab world.

As a cell biologist and an expert in human behavior, Dr. Ghattas addresses a myriad of diverse concepts, including emotions, behaviours, leadership, relationships, technology and social media addiction, personal and child development, and various human behavioural patterns in societies. His lectures offer a distinctive perspective supported by scientific research.

Award-winning singer, composer and flutist, Nai Barghouti performs her stunning arrangements of Arabic classics and western music in addition to her original songs.

We kick off the second half of the cultural season with the brilliant voice of the young Palestinian composer, singer, and flutist Nai Barghouti in “The Return with Nai Barghouti”, an exceptional evening that blends singing and music. The event will be held at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on February 14^th. Barghouti is renowned for her fusion of jazz and Arabic music. In that concert, she will mix her own songs with classical songs, taking the audience on a musical journey through various genres, from Egyptian traditional singing to contemporary Arabic music and from jazz to khaleeji heritage.

An award-winning artist Nai Barghouti has become one of the most recognisable and iconic voices of a new generation of Arab artists. Barghouti debuted in 2011, and since then, she has performed in the major Arab and international theaters. In 2022, she released her first album, featuring 12 songs that showcase her unique artistic personality, skillfully fusing Arabic classics with various Western music genres, especially jazz.

The famous Yemeni orchestra, conducted by Mohamed Al Ghoom, performs the traditional Hadrami music heritage alongside contemporary Khaleeji songs and melodies.

On February 18^th, the National Theatre hosts, for the first time in Kuwait, the Hadrami Orchestra, renowned for presenting Yemeni heritage, known as the origin of musical arts in the Gulf, in a global approach that harmonizes Western orchestral instruments with Yemeni traditional instruments. In this concert, the orchestra conducted by Mohamed Al Ghoom, will perform Hadrami musical heritage along with contemporary Khaleeji songs and melodies.

Founded by Yemeni composer Mohamed Al Ghoom, the Hadrami Orchestra had its inaugural performance in 2019 in Malaysia under the title “Hope Arising from Profound Pain,” featuring six compositions inspired by Hadrami musical styles. Also in 2022, the orchestra presented a grand performance at the Egyptian Opera House entitled “Yemeni Melodies on the Nile”, which featured around 120 musicians playing Yemeni and Egyptian traditional instruments, as well as orchestral instruments.

Two enchanting musical evenings at the Amphitheatre featuring on the first night the beloved singers Tarek Suleiman and Bahraini Mohammed Al-Bakri.

The renowned song “Hawed Al-leil” (Through the Night) by the late singer Aisha Al-Marta has become a symbol of musical events highlighting various facets of Kuwaiti folk arts, particularly Samri. In February, we will enjoy Kuwait’s pleasant winter breeze at the Amphitheatre during two consecutive evenings, where we will revisit the most beautiful works from our local musical heritage.

On the first night, Tuesday, February 20, the distinguished singer Tarek Suleiman and Bahraini singer Mohammed Al-Bakri, will create an enchanting atmosphere with their splendid renditions of traditional songs, complemented by their masterful oud performances.

Two enchanting musical evenings at the Amphitheatre featuring on the second night the beloved singer Tarek Al-Khurayef.

The renowned song “Hawed Al-leil” (Through the Night) by the late singer Aisha Al-Marta has become a symbol of musical events highlighting various facets of Kuwaiti folk arts, particularly Samri. In February, we will enjoy Kuwait’s pleasant winter breeze at the Amphitheatre during two consecutive evenings, where we will revisit the most beautiful works from our local musical heritage.

On the second night, Wednesday, February 21, the beloved singer Tarek Al-Khurayef, known for his beautiful performances of Adaniyat and Samriyat, will present a compilation of these genres and his own songs.

A joyous festive night reviving Kuwait’s authentic musical arts featuring the beloved singer Salman Al-Ammari and the Al-Mass Folklore group.

The Jalsat (musical sessions) returns to the Amphitheatre in the festive month of February, , amidst delightful weather and a holiday atmosphere. On Tuesday, February 27, the beloved singer Salman Al-Amari will grace the stage, offering a genuine Kuwaiti musical experience, particularly highlighting the Art of Sawt melodies. Al-Ammari will perform a compilation of sawt types, including Shami, khayyali, and Arabic sawt, along with other authentic musical arts which Al-Ammari is keen to perform in traditional way, aiming to educate new generations about their heritage.

Our cherished artist will be accompanied by the Maass Folk Arts Group, delighting us with traditional dances and rhythms deeply rooted in our cultural heritage.”

A musical, theatrical, and immersive performance bringing everyone together to celebrate the traditions, media, and people that have come to shape Kuwaiti Ramadans.

The month of Ramadan unfolds a unique set of traditions and customs that distinguish it from any other time of the year. Among them is “Graish,” an authentic Kuwaiti tradition, a potluck party held in the days leading up to Ramadan. Families and friends gather to share traditional dishes, welcoming the holy month in unity.

This year, we invite you to welcome Ramadan with a special “Graish” – a musical, theatrical, and immersive performance celebrating the memories and traditions that have defined Kuwaiti Ramadans over the years. The show promises, for two hours or more, to bring to life on stage numerous surprises etched in our memories, featuring iconic TV shows and songs that evoke the spirit of this special month.

Presented at the National Theatre from February 28 to March 2, “Graish” bears the distinctive mark of the creators of our beloved show “Tonight? The Eighties!”, which garnered remarkable success over two consecutive seasons.

Experience a captivating medley of Kuwaiti, Gulf, and Arabic songs, performed by the choir and the musical ensemble, under the direction of conductor, Dr Mohammed Al-Baijan.

This concert offers the audience an enjoyable musical voyage through the masterpieces of Kuwaiti, Gulf, and Arabic songs, spanning across different eras. Presented as a dynamic medley, performed by the choir and the musical ensemble under the direction of conductor Dr Mohammed Al-Baijan, it stands out as a truly exceptional event. This genre of concerts is revered as one of the most remarkable musical experiences, as it presents a diverse array of popular songs seamlessly woven together to harmonize in melodies, tunes, and rhythms.

The event will take place at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on April 13^th and 14^th, featuring selections from Kuwaiti musical heritage, as well as a variety of popular songs by top khaleeji singers, such as Abu Baker Salem, AbdulKarim Abdulqader, Mohammed Abdou, Nawal and Abdulmajeed Abdullah among others. The audience will also enjoy the timeless works of iconic Arab singers from the twentieth century, including Um Kulthumm, Mohammed Abdel Wahab, Farid Al-Atrash, Abdel Halim Hafez, Fairouz, Shadia, Warda, and many more.

A nostalgic journey into the legacy of iconic Arab singers broadcasted via Radio Cairo, to be brought to life by the choir and the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Kaled Noori.

In 1934, Cairo saw the inauguration of the first official Arab government radio station, broadcasting its signals across the entire region. Over the years, a deep connection has developed with the captivating melodies of renowned singers, transmitted via the frequencies of Radio Cairo. From legendary singers like Umm Kulthumm, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Asmahan, Laila Murad, Farid Al-Atrash and Abdel Halim Hafez to beloved artists such as Shadia, Fayza Ahmed, Warda and numerous others, their melodies have imprinted themselves upon our hearts.

This concert, scheduled for April 17^th at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall, will revisit a repertoire of enchanting songs that once adorned the airwaves of Egyptian radio. The timeless melodies will be presented by the choir and the musical ensemble under the direction of Kuwaiti conductor Dr Khaled Noori, who has skillfully rearranged the tunes to align with modern tastes.

The most outrageous live science show coming for the first time to Kuwait directly from the UK.

On April 19^th and 20^th, the Drama Theatre will present the inaugural show of the season for children and families: “Brainiac Live,” the most outrageous live science show coming to Kuwait for the first time directly from the United Kingdom. This show is renowned for its captivating presentation of thrilling and daring scientific experiments involving exploding dustbins, combusting microwaves, live daredevil stunts and all the experiments you’re not allowed to do at home.

Based on the popular TV show, come join the fearless Brainiacs as they take you on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. Watch in amazement from the safety of your seat as the Brainiacs delve fearlessly into the spectacular mysteries of science!

A delightful puppet show for the whole family to enjoy, adapted from the children’s book by Kuwaiti writer Hooda Al-Shawa.

In April, the Studio Theatre will host the puppet show “The Cooks’ Competition” for a four-day run from the 24^th to the 27^th. Based on the popular children’s book of the same title by Kuwaiti writer Hooda Al-Shawa, the show is directed by Farah Al-Hajali and produced by TAQA Productions.

This delightful show will transport us to the Abbasid era; taking place on the annual cooking competition day hosted by the Caliph during a grand festival at the Golden Gate Palace in Baghdad. During the contest, four talented chefs compete to create a mouthwatering feast filled with exquisite dishes. Yet, as the competition unfolds, a series of exciting and intriguing events captivate the audience. “The Cooks’ Competition” is an enjoyable performance suitable for the entire family.

A musical evening blending classical, jazz, and folk melodies, featuring the unique sounds of alphorn, didgeridoo, saxophone, and percussions.

For the first time in Kuwait, the German band Jacaranda Ensemble performs in the Recital Hall on April 28. The ensemble offers an intriguing mix of composed and improvised classical music, jazz, and folk tunes. The Jacaranda Ensemble consists of five principal musicians of the Brandenburg Symphony Orchestra who are interested in experimenting with new sounds. The ensemble’s instrumentation clearly demonstrates their idea. They play the Alphorn, didgeridoo, saxophone, and percussion.

The Alphorn is a long wooden horn played by Alpine herdsmen and villagers, sounded for intercommunication and at daily ceremonies and seasonal festivals. The didgeridoo is a wind instrument made from hollow wood, originally found in Arnhem Land, Northern Australia and is considered the world’s oldest musical instrument. By bringing diverse instruments from distant regions together, Jacaranda Ensemble connects cultures through music. Their sounds and melodies captivate all tastes and generations; they combine classical music with jazz, while uniting fans of rock and folk music. The concert is held in collaboration with Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany.

A globally acclaimed performance with authentic Kuwaiti content exploring the exceptional journey the late comedic icon, Abdulhussain Abdulredha.

Following the elevated norms of prominent global productions, this show, set to take place at the National Theatre in May, takes us on a captivating journey exploring the works of the iconic actor Abdulhussain Abdulredha. This grand retrospective production involves over 80 artists, seamlessly collaborating on stage in harmonious synergy, encompassing singing, musical performances, and theatrical acts. It also integrates recorded archival material using modern technological techniques, transporting the audience into the legendary world of Abdulhussain. The production revolves around his close bond with music, featuring the opening and closing musical credits of his TV series, operettas of various genres, sketches, and other songs from his extensive body of work, offering the audience unexpected and limitless surprises.

Abdulhussain Abdulredha was not only a talented actor but a versatile artistic entity, engaging in production, directing, writing, composing, and singing. His exceptional talent continued to bring joy to people through a prolific career spanning over half a century. With over a hundred works across theatre, television, and radio, his unforgettable characters are engraved in our collective memory. His brilliance lies in presenting social and economic topics in an engaging manner, showcasing his wit and intellect.

Once more, the National Theatre hosts the enchanting melodies and extraordinary performance of the renowned Egyptian composer, Omar Khairat.

The Egyptian composer Omar Khairat is widely recognized as one of the most beloved musicians in the Arab world. His film scores and TV drama soundtracks have garnered broad and profound popularity. Once again, Khairat will take centre stage at the National Theatre for two unforgettable evenings on May 16^th and 17^th. Joined by his ensemble, he will mesmerize the audience with a curated selection of compositions performed on piano.

Omar Khairat’s musical journey commenced in 1979 with his notable work on the score of the acclaimed Egyptian film “The Night of Arresting Fatema.” Subsequently, he contributed to numerous dramatic productions in both cinema and television, crafting musical compositions for ballet performances. What sets Omar Khairat’s music apart is his adept fusion of Western and Eastern musical instruments, allowing listeners to revel in his lyric-free melodies and attracting a diverse audience to his beautiful compositions.

A musical play that celebrates the life of the “Star of the East” and narrates tales from her journey.

Despite the passing of the “Star of the East,” Umm Kulthum, in 1975, her voice still resonates gloriously in the skies of the East to this day. Since its first season, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre has been keen on reviving the memory of the Lady of Arabic singing in “Kalthoumiyat” concerts, featuring a selection of talented singers, and in the “Leilat Al-Atlal” (Night of the Ruins) concert, where we creatively revived her masterpiece “Al-Atlal” and other songs like never before.

During this season, the National Theatre will host a new experience for two nights, on May 29^th and 30^th, with a musical play titled “Umm Kulthum.” This production features the talented Egyptian singer, Marwa Nagy, and pays homage to the legendary singing icon. The show combines dramatic scenes with live singing, delving into key moments in the life of the “Star of the East.” Through portraying various characters that influenced her career, the play also presents a bouquet of Umm Kulthum’s most beautiful songs from those periods, performed by the Egyptian singer Marwa Nagy, who embodies the character of Umm Kulthum. Supporting the live performances is a musical ensemble led by conductor Ihab Abdelhamid.

In this lecture, Dr Ghattas, the expert in human behaviour, will delve into topics such as pain, boredom, and proactive approaches to life with optimism.

Join us for a new lecture by Dr Khaled Ghattas, the cell biologist and expert in human behaviour, scheduled for Monday, June 3^rd, at the Conference Centre. Titled “A Daring Experience,” this event promises to explore the nuances of pain, boredom, and navigating life with initiative and positivity.

Dr Ghattas, renowned for his unique and engaging style, has captivated audiences with his discussions on myriad subjects ranging from personal relationships to contemporary issues. His perspectives offer invaluable understanding and practical solutions aligned with the pace and complexities of modern life.

This concert transports us to the lively nights of Manama, showcasing its rich musical heritage with performances by Bahraini famous singers.

The National Theatre will host, on June 6, “Manama Nights,” a concert that will take us to Bahrain, the pearl of the Gulf, with its rich musical heritage and singers who are part of our memories. Bahraini prominent artists Ahmed Al-Jumairi and Khaled Al Sheikh will headline the evening, joined by Mohamed Al Bakri, Ibrahim Al Najem, and Hind Dito, accompanied by the Bahrain musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Ziad Ziman.

The concert promises to be a captivating journey through Bahraini musical history featuring a collection of traditional and contemporary Bahraini songs. It spans a range of eras, from the pioneering efforts of Mohammad bin Fares throughout the twentieth century, including the popular artist of the 1960s, Mohamed Ali Abdullah. It also covers the golden era of Bahraini music from the 70s and 80s with artists like Ali Bahar, Salman Ziman, in addition to the songs of the evening’s stars, Ahmed Al Jumairi and Khaled Al-Sheikh with the others.

After years of absence, the Egyptian singer Amal Maher returns to her audience in Kuwait in a beautiful musical night full of surprises. Maestro Tamer Faydi will conduct the musical ensemble.

After a prolonged absence, the beloved Egyptian singer Amal Maher returns to her audience in Kuwait for a musical night filled with “Art, Music, and Emotion,” set to take place at the National Theatre on June 12^th. The concert programme promises numerous surprises, featuring works by great Arab singers such as Umm Kulthum and Abdel Halim Hafez, alongside Kuwaiti classics and a selection of her own songs. Maestro Tamer Faydi will conduct the musical ensemble.

Amal Maher first garnered attention at the age of 13, captivating audiences with the strength and sweetness of her voice and her distinguished performances. The emerging singer improved her talent through studies at the Arab Music Institute and by participating in concerts at the Egyptian Opera House, where she distinguished herself among her peers and excelled in solo performances. This led the renowned composer Ammar El Sherei to select her to sing Umm Kulthum’s songs in the TV Show about the “Star of the East”. Amal excelled in performing the most challenging works of the late icon, earning recognition across the Arab world.

In addition to her mastery and emotional depth in performing Egyptian classics and Arab music heritage, Amal was keen on presenting her own songs that reflect her personality. Her debut album was released in 2006, marking the beginning of successive successes and increasing popularity. In just a few years, Amal Maher became one of Egypt’s most renowned voices.

Blippi is coming to Kuwait for the ultimate curiosity adventure this Eid Holiday.

The YouTube star Blippi gained international fame through his educational videos watched by millions of toddlers worldwide. After the global success of the live show inspired from this cartoon character, Blippi is coming to Kuwait for the first time, accompanied by his new friend Meekah, for the ultimate curiosity adventure in “Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour!”, to be hosted at the Drama Theatre from June 17^th to 21^st.

Blippi’s live shows offer a magical experience for children and parents alike, as Blippi brings his enthusiasm and unique educational concept to the stage, combining music, dances, and videos on screens. This show is an opportunity for Blippi’s fans in Kuwait to see their favorite character on stage. So, get ready for fun, dancing to the music, and embarking on this exciting journey.

An exceptional musical evening with the Lebanese singer who will perform a compilation of songs by renowned artists from Lebanon and Egypt, in addition to her own works.

Lebanese singer Abeer Nehme possesses one of the most powerful Arabic voices in today’s music scene. Known for her versatility, she seamlessly performs various genres from Oriental and Western songs in addition to operatic singing. Fans in Kuwait can look forward to meeting her at the end of the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holiday, on June 20^th  and 21^st, at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall.

Accompanied by the musical ensemble conducted by Maestro André Maaloul, Nehme will present works by prominent Lebanese artists such as Fairouz, Sabah, Zaki Nassif and Melhem Barakat, along with songs by renowned Arab singers in addition to her own.

Abeer Nehme starred the “Black and White” show produced by Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre in the second cultural season 18/19, where she acted and sang classics from old Egyptian films alongside Tarik Bashir.

A new updated version of last year’s successful concert, featuring a diverse selection of TV series themed songs that weren’t previously presented.

Following the great success of last year’s TV series themed songs concert, we are wrapping up the cultural season with “Television Series Songs 1.5” on June 28 at the National Theatre. This updated version of the popular concert combines songs you loved from the previous event with a new collection that weren’t presented last time.

The programme takes the audience on a tour across the Arab world listening to songs from iconic Kuwaiti and other TV series. The musical ensemble of 50 musicians and singers will be led by conductor Dr. Khaled Noori, who has rearranged the songs and scores musically for the live performance. The singing will be accompanied by an innovative visual display inspired by those memorable TV shows that remain etched in our minds.

The Closing Ceremony of the NCAAL’s Cultural Summer Festival featuring Faisal Al-Saad, Fawaz Al-Marzouq, Jasim Bin Thani, and Samah Khaled and the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Ayoub Kheder.

On the evening of Thursday, August 29, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host the closing ceremony of the cultural summer festival organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Literature (NCCAL). This event, titled “Laylat Khamees” (Thursday Night), promises a compilation of songs from the Kuwaiti musical heritage performed by Faisal Al-Saad, Fawaz Al-Marzouq, Jasim Bin Thani, and Samah Khaled, accompanied by the musical ensemble led by Dr Ayoub Kheder.

This concert revives the tradition of Thursday nights—a time traditionally spent preparing for the weekend holiday—where people typically attend concerts by renowned artists, hold musical gatherings and sessions, or even host intimate home gatherings to listen to songs by beloved Kuwaiti and Arab stars. The programme features works of Kuwaiti popular poets and composers such as Abdullateef Al-Banai, Khaled Al-Zayed, Suleiman Al-Mulla, Ghannam Al-Dekan, Mubarak Al-Hudaibi, and Anwar Abdullah, showcasing songs like “Haqawi”, “Kol Khamees”, “Doroobi”, “Samehni Khatet”, and many others.

Starring: Seydou Sarr, Moustapha Fall, Ibrahima Gueye, Joseph Beddelem. Directed by Matteo Garrone.

A Homeric fairy tale that tells the adventurous journey of two young boys, Seydou and Moussa, who leave Dakar to reach Europe. Inspired by real stories of migrants’ African routes to Europe, it is a contemporary Odyssey through the dangers of the desert, the horrors of the detention centers in Libya and the perils of the sea.

The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival 2023 where it received the Silver Lion award for “Best Director” and Best Young Actor award. It was also nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 81^st Golden Globe Awards and Best International Feature Film at the 96^th Academy Awards.

Starring: Abdulmohsen Alnemr, Ibrahim Alhasawi, Omar Al Atawi and Azzam Al-Nemr. Directed by Abu Bakr Shawky

In the Saudi Arabian desert, teenage Matar and his camel Hofira are inseparable. But when his older brother dies, Matar’s only chance to save Hofira is by becoming a “hajjan,” or jockey, and joining the high-stakes world of Bedouin camel racing. Hajjan is a visually stunning film that captures the beauty of the desert and the details of camel racing.

The film premiered at the Toronto Film Festival in September 2023, while its first Arab premiere was at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah in December. It was met with acclaim from film critics, who hailed Hajjan as a significant step forward in the Saudi film industry.

Take a journey to Neverland in this classic tale of magic and make-believe, spectacularly staged on real ice.

J M Barrie’s well-loved story of Peter Pan comes to life with breath-taking skating, flying and special effects. Join Peter – the boy who never grows up – at the National Theatre on 13 & 14 September, as he and Tinker Bell whisk Wendy and her brothers from their London home off on a magical journey to Neverland, where they enjoy thrilling adventures with the Lost Boys, encountering the evil Captain Hook and his pirates as well as a hungry crocodile!

The award-winning Tony Mercer will bring his unique choreography and fabulous theatrical staging along with world-class skaters who will have you on the edge of your seat with their exhilarating leaps, throws and spins, not to mention some daredevil aerial fighting! With state-of-the-art animated scenery, dazzling costumes, fire-on-ice and original music and songs from Tim A. Duncan and Edward Barnwell, this narrated Peter Pan on Ice is a thrilling show for all the family.

Starring: Mouna Hawa, Haitham Alomari and Yumna Marwan. Directed by Amjad Al Rasheed.

Nawal, a recently widowed woman, must find a way to protect herself and her daughter from Jordan’s patriarchal inheritance laws, which allow her husband’s family to claim everything he owned, leaving Nawal with nothing simply because she did not bear him a son.

The film premiered in the Critics’ Week programme at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, marking the first Jordanian feature film to participate in this prestigious French festival. It has also been selected as Jordan’s submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96^th Academy Awards.

Starring: Koji Yakusho, Tokio Emoto and Arisa Nakano. Directed by Wim Wenders

With Perfect Days, 77-year-old German director Wim Wenders returns to human drama. The film tells the story of Hirayama, a public toilet cleaner in Tokyo who seems utterly content with his simple life. Outside of his structured daily routine, he enjoys his passions for music and books. He also loves trees and takes photos of them. A series of unexpected encounters gradually reveal more about his past. The film is a deeply moving and poetic reflection on finding beauty in the everyday world around us.

The film premiered at the 76^th Cannes Film Festival, where it competed for the Palme d’Or and won the Best Actor Award for Kōji Yakusho. It was also nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 96^th Academy Awards, becoming the first film directed by a non-Japanese filmmaker to be nominated as Japan’s entry.

With participation of Hiam Abbas. Co-written and directed by Lina Soualem

A documentary film co-written and directed by Lina Soualem, it explores four generations of women and their shared legacy of separation through the story of her mother, the famous actress Hiam Abbass. Abbass left her Palestinian village of Deir Hanna in the Lower Galilee to pursue her dream of becoming an actress, leaving behind her mother, grandmother, and sisters. She returns to her village with her daughter, Soualem, to uncover the impact of her choice on the family.

The film had its world premiere at the 80^th Venice International Film Festival in 2023. It was also screened at the 2023 BFI London Film Festival where it received the Grierson Award for Best Documentary.

A night to celebrate the works of the late artist Youssef Al-Mutrif, performed by his son, Mutrif Al-Mutrif, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Wissam Khassaf.

For the first time at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre, we are celebrating the late artist Youssef Al-Mutrif, a pioneer of Kuwaiti music who excelled in the Adeni genre. His exceptional vocal abilities and masterful oud performances earned him a large fan base in Kuwait and across the Gulf region. Known for his profound sense of sorrow and melancholy, Youssef Al-Mutrif was honoured with the titles “The Ambassador of Melancholy” and “The Voice of Sorrow,” the latter of which is the title of our upcoming concert.

The concert will take place at the National Theatre on September 19, where we will enjoy a selection of Al-Mutrif’s most beautiful songs, performed by his only son, the young singer Mutrif Al-Mutrif, accompanied by a musical ensemble under the direction of conductor Wissam Khassaf.

Mutrif Al-Mutrif, who inherited his father’s talents—including a beautiful, melodious voice and a strong stage presence—has quickly risen to prominence, becoming a shining star among the young Kuwaiti and Khaleeji singers.

Starring: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Scatman Crothers and Danny Lloyd. Directed by Stanley Kubrick.

Produced and directed by Stanley Kubrick, The Shining is based on Stephen King’s 1977 novel of the same name. This psychological horror film follows the story of Jack Torrance, a writer and recovering alcoholic who takes on a new position as the off-season caretaker of the Overlook Hotel.

Frequently cited as one of the greatest horror films of all time, The Shining was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2018, recognizing it as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Two popular singers, Hani Shaker and Khaled Selim, perform some of the most beautiful songs of the late artist Abdel Halim Hafez.

“Where should we begin the story?” is one of the most beautiful and renowned songs by the late Egyptian legend Abdel Halim Hafez, dubbed the Nightingale. This song’s title captures the essence of the stories, memories, and deep affection that Kuwaitis hold for this beloved singer. It also evokes cherished memories of his concerts and visits to Kuwait, tales that won’t end.

In this cultural season, we honour Abdel Halim Hafez with “The Nightingale” concert, taking place at the National Theatre on September 26. The event will feature Egyptian superstars Hani Shaker and Khaled Selim, who will perform a selection of Abdel Halim’s most beloved songs, accompanied by the music ensemble under the direction of conductor Dr Mohamed El Mougui.

A musical evening celebrating prominent singer Mohamed Al-Misbah, featuring Fahad Al-Salem, Abdulaziz Al-Misbah, and the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Ahmed Al-Oud.

Mohamed Al-Misbah is a distinguished figure in contemporary Kuwaiti music, celebrated for his commitment to preserving the authentic rhythms of musical heritage while infusing his own creative style. Throughout his career, he has spotlighted traditional rhythms in his songs, such as Samri, Liwa, and Sawt, and has released several albums that blend this heritage with a modern touch.

In our upcoming season, we celebrate the works of the prominent artist with the “Al-Misbah Songs” concert, taking place at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Musical Hall on Saturday, September 28. We will revisit the most cherished and significant songs by Al-Misbah, performed by Fahad Al-Salem and Abdulaziz Al-Misbah, the great artist’s nephew. They will be accompanied by a musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Dr Ahmed Al-Oud.

For the first time the resident orchestra of UNESCO will perform in Kuwait. The programme will feature a selection of classical pieces and film soundtracks by French and European composers.

For the first time in Kuwait, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre will host the Orchestre Philharmonique International de Paris (OPI Paris), one of the most prestigious orchestras in France and the resident orchestra of UNESCO. Over two nights, October 2-3, the orchestra will perform a selection of classical pieces and film soundtracks by French and European composers, including Georges Bizet, Maurice Ravel, Camille Saint-Saëns, Verdi, Tchaikovsky, Maurice Jarre, Francis Lai, and others.

Founded in 1997, the Orchestre Philharmonique International de Paris (OPI Paris) brings together fifty high-level professional musicians from twenty different nationalities. Under the musical and artistic direction of its founder, conductor Amine Kouider, OPI Paris has achieved artistic excellence, performing some of the greatest works of symphonic music, opera, and oratorio. The orchestra has participated in high-level concerts, tours, and festivals across France (in cities such as Marseille, Lyon, Nice, Reims, Caen, Chartres, Chantilly, Arles, Bayonne, and Guadeloupe) and internationally in Algeria, Tunisia, and Saudi Arabia.

This event is organized in collaboration between the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters and the French Embassy in Kuwait.

Starring: Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Ed Begley, E. G. Marshall and Jack Warden. Directed by Sidney Lumet.

“12 Angry Men” is an American independent legal drama film directed by Sidney Lumet in his directorial debut, adapted from a 1954 teleplay of the same name. The plot centers on 12 jurors in a murder trial, tasked with deliberating a verdict that could mean the death penalty for the accused—a teenager from an inner-city neighborhood. The film is notable for its use of a single set, with the exception of the opening scene and a few brief shots. Nearly the entire story takes place inside the jury room, with just three minutes occurring outside of it.

The film was nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay at the 30^th Academy Awards, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. The American Film Institute (AFI) ranked Juror 8, portrayed by Henry Fonda, as the 28^th greatest movie hero of the 20^th century. Additionally, AFI listed “12 Angry Men” as the 42^nd most inspiring film, and the 87^th greatest film of the past century.

Starring: Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Richard Haydn, Peggy Wood and Eleanor Parker. Directed by: Robert Wise

“The Sound of Music” is a 1965 American musical film that held the title of the highest-grossing film in history for five years. Running nearly three hours, the movie was nominated for 10 Academy Awards and won five, including Best Picture and Best Director.

The film is an adaptation of the 1959 stage musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, based on Maria von Trapp’s 1949 memoir “The Story of the Trapp Family Singers”. Set in Salzburg, Austria, it offers a fictionalized retelling of Maria’s experiences as governess to seven children, her marriage to Captain Georg von Trapp, and their escape during the 1938 Anschluss. The film’s stunning cinematography and unforgettable songs, including “My Favorite Things” and the title track, have made it an enduring classic.

Featuring a selection of the late artist’s greatest songs performed by Nabil Shuail, along with Fawaz Al-Rujaib, Musaad Al-Balushi, and from Morocco, Fadwa Al-Malki, accompanied by musical band conducted by Dr Ahmed Al-Oud.

The Kuwaiti music scene has never witnessed a more prolific contribution than that of the late artist Abdul Karim Abdul Qader, whose career spanned over half a century. His works became deeply intertwined with Kuwaiti identity, expressing it in the most profound way. In honor of this great artist, who passed away in May 2023, the National Theatre will host “The Wounded Voice: A Tribute to Abdul Karim Abdul Qader” concert on October 10-11. The concert is named after one of the late artist’s most famous songs, which also became his nickname, as his emotional songs beautifully balanced love and pain, longing and sorrow.

The programme will feature a selection of the late artist’s greatest songs performed by the popular Kuwaiti singer Nabil Shuail, alongside artists Fawaz Al-Rujaib, Musaad Al-Balushi, and from Morocco, Fadwa Al-Malki, while Dr. Ahmed Al-Oud will lead the musical ensemble. This event is a tribute to the legacy of “Bu Khalid,” who will remain immortal through the beautiful moments he gave us and his unique, authentic art.

Starring: Robin Williams, Kirsten Dunst, Bradley Pierce, and Bonnie Hunt. Directed by Joe Johnston.

Based on Chris Van Allsburg’s 1981 children’s book and directed by Joe Johnston, Jumanji tells the story of a magical board game that unleashes a world of adventure on siblings Peter and Judy Shepherd. While exploring an old mansion, they discover a mysterious jungle-themed game called Jumanji in the attic. Upon playing, they inadvertently free Alan Parrish (Robin Williams), who has been trapped inside the game’s world for decades.

The film, the first installment in the Jumanji series, received mixed reviews from critics but was a box office success, grossing 263 million dollars worldwide on a budget of approximately 65 million dollars. It was the tenth highest-grossing film of 1995. Despite aging special effects and pop culture references, Jumanji remains a thrilling adventure that continues to captivate audiences.

Starring: Toshiro Mifune, Tatsuya Nakadai, Takashi Shimura, and Kamatari Fujiwara. Directed by Akira Kurosawa.

“Yojimbo” (1961) is a samurai film directed by the legendary Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, who also co-wrote the screenplay and served as one of the producers. The film follows a nameless ronin, or masterless samurai, who arrives in a small village in feudal Japan, where two rival businessmen are battling for control of the local gambling trade. Each boss attempts to hire the ronin as a bodyguard, setting the stage for a complex power struggle.

Yojimbo received widespread critical acclaim and, over time, has come to be regarded as one of Kurosawa’s finest works and one of the greatest films ever made. The film was also the inspiration for Sergio Leone’s Spaghetti Western “A Fistful of Dollars” (1964).

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Marianne Koch, Wolfgang Lukschy, Gian Maria Volonté, and Bruno Carotenuto. Directed by Sergio Leone.

Celebrating its 60^th anniversary, Sergio Leone’s “A Fistful of Dollars”, released in 1964, defined a new era for the Western genre in Hollywood. The film not only popularized the “spaghetti western” subgenre but also marked a breakthrough for Italian director Sergio Leone and its star, Clint Eastwood.

The story follows the “Man with No Name,” a laconic gunslinger who drifts into the Mexican village of San Miguel, where a fierce power struggle rages between the three Rojo brothers and the town’s sheriff, John Baxter. When the Rojo brothers ambush a regiment of Mexican soldiers transporting gold for weapons, the stranger sees an opportunity to profit. He positions himself between the feuding factions, selling false information to both sides for his own gain.

The biggest show in the world in honour of the King of Pop. A Mega production with faithful reproduction of costumes and choreography.

The National Theatre hosts on 25 October a wonderful tribute to the King of Pop, “MICHAEL LIVES FOREVER”. Designed with attention to detail, this show was conceived, choreographed, and brought to life by Lavelle Smith Jr., the renowned choreographer who worked directly with Michael Jackson for over 25 years.

Brazilian artist Rodrigo Teaser was chosen to embody the role of the King of Pop, captivating audiences with his talent, energy, and live performances. This tribute concert has been recognized as the most authentic homage to Michael Jackson, even earning the endorsement of the artist’s family.

“Michael Lives Forever” is the longest-running and most successful Michael Jackson tribute show in the world, having garnered success with both audiences and critics, reaching approximately one million spectators.

Starring: Mahmoud El Meligy, Yehia Chahine, Hamdi Ahmed, Nagwa Ibrahim, Ezzat Al Alayli, Tawfiq El Dikn, Ali Al Sherif. Directed by: Youssef Chahine 

Egyptian drama, based on Abdel Rahman El-Sharkawy’s novel of the same title, with a screenplay by Hassan Fouad and directed by the internationally acclaimed Egyptian filmmaker Youssef Chahine. The film centers on the conflict between a feudal lord and peasants in 1930s Egypt. The feudal lord, Mahmoud Bey, uses his influence to secure a larger share of water for his lands, depriving the peasants of their limited resources. He also decides to construct a private road to his estate, expropriating peasant lands, including that of Abu Sweilem The conflict intensifies between the peasants and the Bey, who is supported by the English occupiers..

The film competed in the official competition of the Cannes International Film Festival in 1970 and is widely regarded as one of Chahine’s most enduring classics. In 1996, during the centennial celebration of Egyptian cinema, it was ranked second on the list of the 100 best films in Egyptian cinema history.

A musical journey exploring our rich heritage and its celebrated stars, performed by the choir and musical ensemble under the direction of conductor Dr Khaled Noori.

Kuwaiti music has long been defined by its rich melodies, rhythms, and lyrics, from its origins in the 19^th century to the present day. Its enduring success lies in its evolution across generations, avoiding stagnation in a single style or melody. Instead, it has embraced diversity, staying contemporary while maintaining its local authenticity and distinctive character.

In this concert, taking place at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on 28 October, we embark on an exciting journey through 100 years of Kuwaiti music. We will revisit the most beloved songs that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of Kuwaiti and Khaleeji audiences, performed by the choir and musical ensemble led by conductor Dr Khaled Noori.

A New Concert Coming in October, Featuring the Powerful Voice of Egyptian Singer Mai Farouk, Performing the Best of Arabic Songs.

The National Theatre will once again host Egyptian star Mai Farouk on 31 October, as she presents a selection of the most beautiful Arabic songs and other beloved tunes eagerly awaited by her Kuwaiti audience. Farouk’s concerts, performed in previous seasons, have been among our most successful musical nights, drawing lovers of Arabic music who come together to enjoy her powerful, emotional voice and her exquisite covers of songs by the legendary Umm Kulthum. and other prominent Arab singers.

Mai Farouk’s strong voice and a unique singing style have placed her among the leading singers of the Arab world. She began her musical journey at an early age, joining the children’s choir at the Egyptian Opera House. When she first appeared on the stage, she was not yet eight years old. Mai has steadily pursued her musical career, releasing several albums and singles, the latest being “Aftakerlak Eih” in 2023, which achieved great success on YouTube and topped Google search trends.

Starring: Yagoub Alfarhan, Maria Bahrawi, Abdullah Al-Sadhan. Written and Directed by Tawfik Alzaidi

Premiered at the Red Sea International Film Festival in December 2023, “Norah” is one of the latest productions in Saudi cinema and the first Saudi film to participate in the 77^th Cannes Film Festival, where it received a special mention from the “Un Certain Regard” jury. It is also the first Saudi film to be shot entirely in the Al-Ula region.

Set in Saudi Arabia in the 90s, when artistic expression was banned, it is a powerful story about a new schoolteacher (Nader) and a young woman (Norah), in a small remote village. At great risk, they develop a tender friendship and inspire one another to keep their creativity alive despite the restrictions. Nader, originally an artist, enlightens Norah on the wider world outside of the village.

Starring: Leonie Benesch, Leonard Stettnisch, and Eva Löbau. Co- written and Directed by İlker Çatak.

A 2023 German drama directed by İlker Çatak, co-written with Johannes Duncker. The story follows Carla Nowak, an idealistic and dedicated sports and math teacher, as she embarks on her first teaching job at a high school. When a series of thefts occur and one of her students is accused, Carla takes it upon herself to uncover the truth. As she delves deeper, she finds herself navigating conflicts between outraged parents, opinionated colleagues, and aggressive students.

The film offers a microcosm of society, addressing relevant and contemporary themes such as idealism, bias, communication, justice, racism, and the culture of debate. It was selected to compete for the Panorama Audience Award at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival and has been nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 96th Academy Awards.

Featuring renowned keynote speaker Steven Bartlett, bestselling author and host of the popular podcast “Diary of a CEO”, visiting Kuwait for the first time.

For the first time, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre hosts in November the National Leadership Conference 2024, held by the National Leadership Institute (NLI). Under the Patronage of the Minister of Finance, this event, titled “Breaking Barriers II: Strong Mind, Strong Body, Strong Leader” will feature, for the first time in Kuwait, the renowned keynote speaker, bestselling author, and No. 1 podcast host of “Diary of a CEO” Steven Bartlett.

The event will also include interactive sessions from top international and local speakers, exhibitions and unparalleled networking opportunities. Speakers will include Faisal AlAgel (Bidoon Waraq), Dr Mariam AlAwadhi (Renowned Psychiatrist) and Dr Alaa AlHomaizi (Renowned Psychologist).

The conference will take place on November 5^th from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM at the Drama Theatre, aiming to inspire and empower both current and future leaders by promoting holistic well-being for effective leadership. The National Leadership Conference 2024 is an annual event that brings together industry leaders, experts, and innovators to explore the crucial connections between mental resilience, physical health, and leadership, providing a unique platform for leadership development and personal growth.

The famous Egyptian superstar, dubbed “The Voice of Egypt,” will return to the National Theater for the second year in a row, performing her best songs in a beautiful musical evening.

Fans of the Egyptian superstar Angham are eagerly awaiting a special evening this November, as the beloved singer, known as “The Voice of Egypt,” graces the stage of the National Theatre. Angham, who earned this title for her warm voice, deep emotions, contemporary songs, and prolific releases, will present a selection of her finest hits.

Additionally, she will perform songs from her new album Tigi Nseeb, released at the end of last July, marking her return to album releases after a four-year hiatus, during which she only released singles.

Voice Over: Maisa Abd Elhadi. Directed by Sarah Ema Friedland and Rami Younis

A sci-fi documentary that explores the rise and fall of Lyd—a 5,000-year-old metropolis that was once a thriving Palestinian town before being conquered during the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. It tells the story of a city that once connected Palestine to the world—what it was, what it has become, and what it might have been. In the film, the city is personified as a young woman who narrates her history, emotions, and experiences. Actress Maisa Abd Elhadi lends her voice to the city, allowing the audience to hear from a place deeply scarred by displacement, violence, and war.

The film premiered at the Amman International Film Festival in August 2023, where it won the FIPRESCI Award for Best Arab Feature Documentary. It is directed by Rami Younis and Sarah Friedland, with Elias Suleiman as co-writer.

Starring: Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep, Justin Henry and Jane Alexander. Written and Directed by Robert Benton.

Winner of five Academy Awards, this landmark drama features powerful performances from Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep as a couple whose separation spirals into a heated custody battle. Based on the novel of the same title about the story of a couple’s divorce, its emotional impact on their young son, and the subsequent evolution of their relationship and views on parenting. “Kramer vs. Kramer” delves into the psychology and consequences of divorce while addressing contemporary social issues such as gender roles, fathers’ rights, work-life balance, and single parenting.

The film was a major box office success, grossing over $173 million becoming the highest-grossing film of 1979. It received widespread critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and the performances of its cast. At the 52^nd Academy Awards, the film garnered nine nominations and won five, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor for Dustin Hoffman and Best Supporting Actress for Meryl Streep.

Starring: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, Jack Haley, Billie Burke and Margaret Hamilton. Directed by Victor Fleming and King Vidor.

An American classic, The Wizard of Oz (1939) is an adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s 1900 children’s fantasy novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The film follows young Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto, who are whisked away by a tornado from their Kansas farm to the magical Land of Oz. There, they embark on a journey with three newfound friends to meet the Wizard, who they believe can help Dorothy return home and grant the others their deepest wishes.

The Wizard of Oz is celebrated for its use of Technicolor, fantasy storytelling, musical score, and memorable characters. It was a critical success and was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, winning Best Original Song for “Over the Rainbow” and Best Original Score. In 1989, the film was selected by the Library of Congress as one of the first 25 films for preservation in the United States National Film Registry for being ‘culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.’ It is also one of the few films included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register.

Written and Directed by Gints Zilbalodis.

A 2024 animated adventure fantasy film co-written and directed by Gints Zilbalodis. The story is set in a world on the brink of collapse, filled with remnants of human existence. At its heart is a solitary cat whose home is destroyed by a great flood. Seeking refuge, the cat joins a boat inhabited by various species. Despite their differences, they must work together to survive. As they navigate the mystical, flooded landscapes, they face the challenges and dangers of adapting to a new world.

The film premiered in the “Un Certain Regard” section of the 2024 Cannes Film. It also competed at the Annecy Film Festival, where it won four awards including Jury and Audience awards. Additionally, it was selected as Latvia’s entry for Best International Feature Film at the 97^th Academy Awards.

The opening ceremony of the 24^th edition of the International Music Festival will celebrate the distinguished singer Mohammed Al-Balushi, who will be present and joined by Faisal Al-Saad, Hamad Al-Mane’, Musaed Al-Balushi and Fahad Al-Salem. The musical ensemble will be conducted by Maestro Dr Mohammed Al-Baijan.

Organised by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host the 24^th edition of the International Music Festival from 17 to 22 November, showcasing a variety of musical performances. The opening ceremony, held exceptionally at the National Theatre, will honour this year’s celebrated figure, the distinguished singer Mohammed Al-Balushi, who will perform joined by Faisal Al-Saad, Hamad Al-Mane’, Musaed Al-Balushi and Fahad Al-Salem. The musical ensemble will be led by conductor Dr Mohammed Al-Baijan.

Mohammed Al-Balushi is one of the most prominent voices in Kuwait and the Gulf region. He began his singing career in the 1980s, quickly gaining attention for his distinctive voice and unique style. His contributions extend beyond singing, as he has composed music for various stars in the Gulf and Arab world, covering romantic ballads, khaleeji rhythms, and notable patriotic songs.

A Talk with the distinguished singer Mohammed Al-Balushi, as he shares insights into his rich artistic journey.

On 18 November, the second day of the NCAAL’s 24th International Music Festival, the Recital Hall will host a talk titled “The Journey of Mohammed Al-Balushi”, celebrating this year’s honoured figure, the esteemed artist Mohammed Al-Balushi. During this event, the beloved artist will recount his remarkable career, which began in the early 1980s.

Mohammed Al-Balushi studied at the Higher Institute of Musical Arts, where he gained an academic foundation in Kuwaiti and Arab musical heritage. His professional career took off with the Television Folk Arts Troupe, where he immersed himself in authentic folk traditions and collaborated with prominent artists such as Ghannam Al-Deikan and Marzouq Al-Marzouq. His debut album, released in 1983, featured a collection of romantic songs, marking the successful beginning of his singing career. He later transitioned to composing, collaborating with renowned Kuwaiti and Khaleeji singers and producing a series of successful songs.

A musical evening featuring the Omani artist, the cellist Maryam Al-Manjia, who will perform a selection of diverse musical pieces on the second night of NCCAL 24^th music festival.

Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host “The Magic of the Cello with Maryam Al Manjiya” on Monday, 18 November, the second night of the International Music Festival, organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters. This musical evening will feature Omani cellist Maryam Al Manjiya, the first female cellist in Oman and the Gulf, and a member of the Royal Symphony Orchestra. The evening will take the audience on a musical journey through a variety of melodies, ranging from Western to Arab and Khaleeji music, performed by Maryam Al Manjiya on the cello, accompanied by the oud, guitar, keyboard, and percussion.

Maryam Al Manjiya’s musical journey began in the mid-1990s when she studied cello in Cairo. Upon her return, she joined the Royal Symphony Orchestra and was honoured by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Al Manjiya is known for her unique style, seamlessly blending the cello’s capabilities with both Western and Arab musical traditions. She has represented Oman in numerous regional and international events, most recently at the opening of the Omani Cultural Week in Kuwait last September, held at the National Library, where the audience responded enthusiastically to her performance.

The third night of the International Music Festival showcases Greek music performed by clarinetist Vassilis Saleas, kemenche virtuoso Cafer Nazlıbaş.

On the third night of NCAAL’s International Music Festival, we journey to the heart of Greek civilization and the Anatolian plateau in Asia Minor. On Wednesday evening, 20 November, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host “Melodies from Greece,” a concert featuring the renowned Greek clarinetist Vassilis Saleas alongside traditional kemenche player Cafer Nazlıbaş. Together, they will bring to life some of Greece’s most beautiful melodies.

Vassilis Saleas, one of Greece’s most celebrated musicians, began his career in the 1990s and has collaborated with prominent artists and composers, including the late singer Dionysis Savvopoulos and the renowned composer Vangelis, famed for his Oscar-winning score for “Chariots of Fire” and “1492: Conquest of Paradise”. Cafer Nazlıbaş, a modern master of the kemenche (also known as the lyre), plays this traditional string instrument with roots in Syria and Iraq that later spread to the Anatolian plateau and Greece.

The fourth night of the International Music Festival celebrates the songs of Warda and Nagat, performed by Eman Abdelghani and Farah El Mougi, accompanied by the musical ensemble conducted by Maestro Mohamed El Mougi.

The fourth night of the International Music Festival celebrates the works of two of the most important singers of the 20th century with the “Warda and Nagat” concert. The event, taking place at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on Thursday, November 21, will feature performances by Egyptian singers Eman Abdelghani and Farah El Mougi, accompanied by a musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Mohamed El Mougi.

The concert will showcase a selection of the most beautiful songs by Warda and Nagat, performed by the distinguished singer Eman Abdelghani, known for her remarkable vocal versatility. Eman excels in interpreting the works of Warda. Joining her is the young singer Farah El Mougi, who recently gained recognition at the Arab Music Festival and other events at the Egyptian Opera House. Farah first rose to prominence after participation in The Voice Kids in 2016, where she captivated audiences with her talent and ability to perform songs by legendary artists.

The closing concert of the International Music Festival presents a selection of Kuwaiti and Arabic songs performed by singer Badri Nouri and the choir, accompanied by the musical ensemble led by conductor Dr Khaled Noori. 

On Friday evening, 22 November, we will enjoy the closing event of the 24th edition of the NCAAL’s International Music Festival. The concert, titled “Arabian Melodies”, will feature a collection of songs from Kuwait and across the Arab world, showcasing a variety of rhythms, musical forms, and Arabic maqams.

The songs will be performed by the choir and orchestra, the musical ensemble led by conductor Dr Khaled Noori. with special guest singer Bader Nouri, along with the participation of talented young choir members.

Starring: Sean Connery, Gert Fröbe, Shirley Eaton, Honor Blackman. Directed By Guy Hamilton.

The third instalment in the James Bond series, Goldfinger is based on Ian Fleming’s 1959 novel of the same name. Produced in 1964, it became the first Bond blockbuster, with a budget equal to that of the two previous films combined. The plot follows Bond as he investigates gold magnate Auric Goldfinger, portrayed by German actor Gert Fröbe, who schemes to contaminate the United States Bullion Depository at Fort Knox. Goldfinger was also the first Bond film to win an Academy Award, taking the Oscar for Best Sound Editing.

Starring: Jim Broadbent, Helen Mirren, Fionn Whitehead, Anna Maxwell Martin and Matthew Goode. Directed by Roger Michell.

A comedy-drama inspired by the true story of a taxi driver who stole The Portrait of the Duke of Wellington by Francisco de Goya from London’s National Gallery in 1961—the first (and still the only) theft in the Gallery’s history. The film explores the driver, his family, the motives behind the theft, and the subsequent trial.

It was Roger Michell’s penultimate film before his passing on 22 September 2021, with his final work being the documentary “Elizabeth: A Portrait in Parts”. “The Duke” premiered in cinemas in February 2022, several months after Michell’s death. The documentary about Queen Elizabeth’s life was screened at the Centre’s Cinema in September 2022, shortly after her passing, as the opening film of the Cinema Hall’s programme.

Starring: Dave Johns, Hayley Squires, Briana Shann and Sharon Percy. Directed by Ken Loach.

This Ken Loach drama tells the story of Daniel Blake, a sixty-year-old carpenter who is denied Employment and Support Allowance, despite being declared unfit to work by his doctor. Hayley Squires co-stars as Katie, a struggling single mother who forms a friendship with Daniel.

Ken Loach is regarded as one of Britain’s most important filmmakers. Since the mid-1960s, he has focused on themes such as the class system, poverty, and the struggles of the underprivileged. Although his subject matter is often hard-hitting and gritty, it is always imbued with sympathy and affection for his characters and their challenges. Loach’s film Kes (1969) was voted the seventh greatest British film of the 20th century in a British Film Institute poll. Two of his films, The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006) and I, Daniel Blake (2016), received the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, making him one of only nine filmmakers to win the award twice.

Starring: Ben Whishaw, Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Jim Broadbent and Nicole Kidman. Directed by Paul King.

A live-action animated comedy film written and directed by Paul King, inspired by Michael Bond’s beloved Paddington Bear character. The film follows Paddington, an anthropomorphic bear who journeys from the jungles of “Darkest Peru” to London, where he is adopted by the Brown family. Nicole Kidman plays a villainous taxidermist determined to add Paddington to her collection. The film received two BAFTA nominations and won the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain Award for Best Screenplay.

The Saudi choir group performing in Kuwait for the first time at the Amphitheatre this November.

The Amphitheatre’s concert series kicks off on November 28 with the Saudi choir group “Choralla,” performing in Kuwait for the first time. This group, which has gained popularity in recent years, is known for presenting both classic and contemporary songs, from Khaleeji songs and the works of renowned Arab singers.

Comprised of passionate young men and women who share a deep love for Arab and khaleeji classics, the choir is led by conductor Elie Farah. Together, they aim to revive the timeless beauty of traditional music. “Choralla” has garnered significant attention for their successful performances at Al Shallal Park in Jeddah, where they drew large audiences, and they have also participated in various events across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

An exceptional musical evening celebrating the journey of the distinguished Kuwaiti poet, featuring performances by singers Bader Nouri, Faisal Al Saad, and Fahad Al-Salem, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of conductor Dr Khaled Noori.

The name of the renowned Kuwaiti poet Bader Bouresli has been associated with some of the most beautiful songs in the history of Kuwaiti music. Since his debut in the 1960s, his prolific career has spanned hundreds of works performed by legendary singers of Kuwait and the Gulf, including Abdul Karim Abdul Qader, Mohammed Abdou, Abdullah Al-Ruwaished, Nawal, Ghareed Al Shati’, and many more. His lyrics have been diverse, reflecting the sincere and impactful Kuwaiti voice in both romantic and patriotic songs, as well as his contributions to television and theatrical operettas.

In this exceptional evening, hosted by the National Theatre on Wednesday, December 4, we honour our esteemed poet in a musical night that he will attend in person. The event will feature a selection of his most beloved songs, performed by singers Bader Nouri, Faisal Al Saad, and Fahad Al-Salem, accompanied by the musical ensemble led by conductor Dr Khaled Noori. The evening will also include intriguing stories about these songs, shared by the esteemed poet himself for the first time, in a new creative vision.

For the third consecutive year, we welcome the beloved singer Salman Al-Ammari, accompanied by the Al-Mass Folklore Group, presenting songs from the rich Kuwaiti and Khaleeji musical heritage.

In the first week of December, the Jalsat (musical gatherings) return to the Amphitheatre, beginning with a new concert on the evening of Friday, 6 December, featuring the distinguished singer Salman Al-Ammari and the Al-Mass Folklore Group. Al-Ammari’s performances are celebrated for showcasing authentic Kuwaiti folk music forms- such as Sawt, Samri, Khammari, Qadri, and others- in the true spirit of traditional musical gatherings.

Salman Al-Ammari held his first concert with the Al-Mass Folklore Group at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall in November 2022, followed by a second concert at the Amphitheatre in February 2023. Both events were highly successful, with audiences delighting in cherished Kuwaiti and Khaleeji songs, performed by Al-Ammari in traditional styles that keep our rich heritage alive in the hearts of younger generations.

Starring: Hitoshi Omika, Ryo Nishikawa, Ryuji Kosaka and Ayaka Shibutani. Written and Directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi.

With a cast of non-professional actors, the film follows Takumi and his daughter Hana, who live in a village near Tokyo surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. One day, the villagers learn about a plan to build a campsite near Takumi’s home, a project that threatens their fragile water system and poses other environmental consequences.

The film was selected to compete at the 80th Venice International Film Festival, where it won the Grand Jury Prize and the FIPRESCI Award from the International Federation of Film Critics. It also received the Best Film Award at the 2023 BFI London Film Festival.

Hamaguchi first garnered widespread attention for his talents as a screenwriter and director with his film “Drive My Car”, an adaptation of a short story by acclaimed Japanese author Haruki Murakami. The film won the Best Screenplay Award at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay, ultimately winning Best International Feature Film in 2022. Hamaguchi is the third Japanese director in history to receive an Oscar nomination for Best Director.

Starring: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, John Heard and Catherine O’Hara. Directed by Chris Columbus.

An iconic Christmas movie, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” is the sequel to the 1990 classic “Home Alone” and the second instalment in the beloved franchise. The story follows Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), who loses track of his father at the airport and mistakenly boards a plane to New York City while the rest of his family flies to Florida. Alone in the Big Apple, Kevin cleverly secures a room at the Plaza Hotel and embarks on his usual mischievous adventures. When he learns that the infamous Sticky Bandits (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) are plotting to rob a toy store owned by a kind elderly man, Kevin sets out to thwart their plans just in time for Christmas.

Despite being a sequel, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” has solidified its status as a holiday classic. While many fans consider the first film superior, there’s no denying that New York City provides a more dazzling setting. Filmed across iconic locations in Chicago and New York, the movie captures the charm of two of the world’s most vibrant cities. Memorable scenes unfold at the prestigious Plaza Hotel on Fifth Avenue and the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York, while the exterior of Duncan’s Toy Chest is the Rookery Building in Chicago. The luxurious Conrad Hilton Suite, also in Chicago, adds to the movie’s allure. Packed with entertaining sequences from start to finish, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” remains a festive favourite for audiences of all ages.

Starring: Abou Sangare, Nina Meurisse and Alpha Oumar. Co-written and Directed by Boris Lojkine.

L’histoire de Souleymane (Souleymane’s Story) is a 2024 French film directed by Boris Lojkine. It premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival in May, where it won two awards. The film follows Souleymane, a recent Guinean immigrant navigating the streets of Paris as he prepares for his asylum application interview while working as a bicycle delivery rider. As Souleymane tirelessly pedals through the city delivering meals, he rehearses a story that isn’t his own (he’s been advised to declare himself a political dissident to secure asylum), but he struggles to embrace this false narrative.

With a documentary-like style, Boris Lojkine illuminates the lives of individuals often overlooked despite being part of our everyday surroundings. The director meticulously captures the details of Souleymane’s daily routine and the harsh realities faced by undocumented migrants. Yet, Souleymane’s resilience stands out, brought to life through the outstanding debut performance of Abou Sangaré. His deeply moving portrayal earned him the Best Actor Award in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, while Lojkine received the Special Jury Prize. The film has garnered international acclaim, earning multiple nominations, including several Best Actor nods for Sangaré, who won the award at the Gijón International Film Festival.

The Lebanese star will meet his audience next December in a new concert, where he will perform a selection of his finest romantic works.

After a long time away from his fans in Kuwait, Lebanese superstar Marwan Khoury returns for a concert on Thursday 12 December. He will enchant the audience with a collection of his most beautiful romantic songs, including those he has performed himself and those he has composed for others. Marwan holds a special place in the hearts of Kuwaiti audiences; his first two concerts in Kuwait, held in November 2019, were hugely successful, prompting the Centre’s management to extend the event for an additional night due to popular demand.

Marwan Khoury is a truly exceptional and unique musical talent, having carved a distinctive path for himself to become a prominent name in Arabic music. He has produced many successful works, with his compositions performed by pop stars across the Arab world. Known for his versatility, Marwan is not only a singer and a composer but also a lyricist, and the host of the television show Tarab, where he invites renowned singers to discuss music and share performances, often joining them in singing or playing the piano.

Starring: Essam Omar, Rakeen Saad, Ahmed Bahaa, Samaa Ibrahim and Rambo Brothers. Co-written and Directed by Khaled Mansour.

Premiering at the 81st Venice Film Festival, this film marked a significant return for Egyptian cinema to the prestigious festival. It tells the story of Hassan and his dog, Rambo, as they embark on a journey to save Rambo from Hassan’s vengeful landlord, whom the dog has attacked. As Hassan traverses Cairo in search of a safe haven for Rambo, he is forced to confront his past fears and, in doing so, rediscovers himself.

“Seeking Haven for Mr. Rambo” marks Khaled Masour’s debut feature film after directing two short films and mini videos. It is not a film about extreme violence against dogs, explains the director, but rather an exploration of the younger generation’s complex relationship with society. The film delves into a paradoxical connection—a mix of intense love and fear intertwined with hate. “In this relationship, we often feel pursued in our own city like stray dogs. At the same time, we do not know any other haven to belong to,” the director notes.

Starring: Tilda Swinton, George MacKay, Moses Ingram, Bronagh Gallagher, Tim McInnerny and Michael Shannon. Co-written and Directed by Joshua Oppenheimer.

An apocalyptic musical film directed and co-written by Joshua Oppenheimer, The End is produced by Oppenheimer, Signe Byrge Sørensen, and Tilda Swinton. The film stars Swinton alongside a diverse ensemble cast. It premiered at the 51st Telluride Film Festival on 31 August 2024 and is set for release in the United States on 6 December 2024.

The story follows a wealthy family living in an underground bunker two decades after contributing to the world’s destruction.

A journey through 100 years of Egyptian films with popular songs by legendary singers, performed by Marwa Nagy, Nidaa Sharara, and Khalaf Al-Mashaouf, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of conductor Dr Ihab Abdel Hamid. 

Since its early days, Egyptian cinema has been closely intertwined with musical films, as prominent singers of the time often starred in them, using cinema as an additional platform to promote their songs. Icons such as Umm Kulthum, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Sabah, Farid Al-Atrash, Mohamed Fawzi and others created popular films and timeless songs for nearly three decades. By the late 1960s, songs began to fade from films, only to reemerge later—this time not through actors or renowned singers, but more closely tied to the film’s dramatic context.

The “Sound of Cinema” concert, taking place at the National Theatre in December, invites audiences on a magical journey through 100 years of Egyptian cinema. It showcases timeless songs by legends including Umm Kulthum, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Abdel Halim Hafez, Warda, and Shadia, alongside modern hits by pop stars like Sherine Abdel Wahab and Hussain Al Jassmi. These popular songs will be brought to life by Marwa Nagy, Nidaa Sharara, and Khalaf Al-Mashaouf, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of conductor Dr Ihab Abdel Hamid.

Strarring: Lee Pace, Catinca Untaru, and Justine Waddell. Co-written and Directed by Tarsem Singh. 

The Fall is an adventure-fantasy film produced, co-written, and directed by Tarsem Singh. It is a monumental production that filmed over four years in 28 breathtaking locations across multiple continents, with dazzling costumes designed by Academy Award® winner Eiko Ishioka, THE FALL remains one of the most gorgeous films ever made, a genre-defying cult classic like no other. Completed in 2006 but not released in cinemas until 2008, it features one of Lee Pace’s earliest and most artistic roles. While the film received mixed reviews and was a box office failure upon release, it has since gained recognition for its visual artistry and limited distribution, remaining absent from streaming platforms for years.

In July 2024, the streaming service Mubi acquired select distribution rights to a 4K restoration, which premiered at the Locarno Film Festival before streaming globally on September 27, 2024. A visually stunning exploration of themes such as falling from grace, addiction, friendship, and love, The Fall earned critical acclaim over time, appearing on several top-ten lists of the best films of 2008.

Set in 1915 Los Angeles, the story follows Roy Walker, a stuntman hospitalized and possibly paralyzed after a dangerous film stunt. While recovering, he befriends Alexandria, a young Romanian girl with a broken arm. To entertain her, Roy begins narrating a fantastical story about Alexander the Great story, inspired by her name. And he promises her more epic tales if she returns. As Roy’s narrative unfolds, Alexandria’s vivid imagination transforms his words into a breathtaking fantasy world.

Enjoy an enchanting evening featuring medleys from Kuwaiti, Khaleeji, and Arabic songs, performed by the choir and guest artist Jassem Bin Thani, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Dr Mohammed Al-Buaijan.

Following the success of last season’s Medley concert, which captivated audiences with the exceptional performances of iconic songs by the choir and talented musicians, we bring back the experience in December. This year’s concert features a rich repertoire of Kuwaiti, khaleeji, and Arabic classics, seamlessly blended into a medley of melodies, harmonies, and rhythms.

Hosted at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Music Hall on 25-26 December, the event will also spotlight guest artist Jassem Bin Thani, performing a tribute to the late Kuwaiti legend Abdul Karim Abdul Qader. The programme offers a vibrant showcase of Kuwaiti folk arts and hits from the golden age of kaleeji music to contemporary favourites, along with timeless songs by legendary 20^th-century artists such as Umm Kulthum, Abdel Halim Hafez, Fairuz, and many more.

The National Theatre once again hosts the Saudi artist Abadi Al-Johar, to perform his beloved songs, accompanied by his oud and the musical ensemble under the direction of conductor Amir Abdel-Megeed.

In December, the Saudi artist Abadi Al-Johar, renowned as the Master of the Oud, returns to the National Theatre on 27 December after a long absence. With his oud in hand, he will perform a selection of his most beloved songs in the concert Abadi and His Oud, alongside the musical ensemble led by Maestro Amir Abdel-Megeed. A regular guest at the National Theatre, the Saudi singer meets his Kuwaiti audience annually during the Kuwait February Festival. His last performance at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre, in February 2022, featured a repertoire of his most popular songs and exceptional oud solos.

Renowned for his melancholic voice and a playing style that bridges emotion and mastery on the oud, Abadi Al-Johar has composed numerous songs for prominent Arab artists, including Talal Maddah, Nagat Al-Saghira, Samira Said, and Assala Nasri. He has also performed lyrics by some of the region’s most celebrated poets, such as Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen, Prince Abdulrahman bin Musaid, Fayeq Abduljalil, Talal Al-Rasheed, and many others.

A musical evening celebrating the most renowned Yemeni and Khaleeji traditional and contemporary melodies, presented with a global flair by an orchestra seamlessly combining Western and traditional instruments, under the direction of conductor Mohamed Al-Ghoom. 

Following the immense success of last season’s event, “The Hadhrami Orchestra”, which uniquely showcased Yemeni and Khaleeji melodies in a groundbreaking experience led by Yemeni composer Mohamed Al-Ghoom, we proudly present “The Hadrami Music: Cultural Roots, Global Harmony” this January. The concert will feature a new selection of Yemeni melodies, widely regarded as the foundation of Khaleeji music, performed in an innovative global style that unites Western orchestral instruments with traditional ones as part of the Heritage Symphonies project.

Founded in 2019 by Yemeni composer Mohamed Al-Ghoom, “The Heritage Symphonies” is a cultural initiative dedicated to promoting and showcasing folk music by integrating traditional styles and instruments into orchestral performances. Al-Ghoom’s dream was to share Yemen’s rich musical heritage, particularly the Hadhrami arts, with the world. The project debuted with a landmark concert in Malaysia in 2019, titled “Hope from the Depths of Pain”, featuring six compositions inspired by Hadrami Yemeni music. This was followed by acclaimed performances at the Cairo Opera House in 2022 (A Yemeni Melody on the Nile), in Paris in 2023 (A Yemeni Melody in Paris), and further concerts in Doha, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait in February 2024. Each performance masterfully combines Yemeni melodies with traditional instruments and a full Western orchestra, creating a captivating fusion of heritage and modernity.

Between Samri melodies and her own songs, the beloved artist Fatouma returns for a captivating new musical session. 

Since her debut, Fatouma has captivated audiences with her powerful voice and unique renditions of diverse genres, ranging from traditional folk to romantic songs. On 17 January, the Amphitheatre will host a new musical session (Jalsat) featuring the beloved artist Fatouma. Fans can look forward to an enchanting evening showcasing her popular hits and iconic Samri songs, which she performs with exceptional mastery.

Her last event at the Amphitheatre, held during National Day celebrations in February 2022, was a patriotic spectacle. Fatouma captivated the audience with heartfelt tributes to Kuwait, her hit songs “Darb Al-Sana’a wal-Adala” and “Habibi Maho Al-Awal,” along with beloved Samri melodies.

A musical evening honouring the works of the late artist Awadh Doukhi, performed by Hamad Al-Manea, Fawaz Al-Marzouq, and Sultan Al-Muftah, accompanied by a musical ensemble under the direction of Dr Ayoub Khoder.

The late Kuwaiti singer Awad Doukhi belonged to the generation of singers who bridged the old and modern eras of Kuwait, he immersed himself in the maritime traditions and the sea songs that shaped Kuwaiti music’s identity, as well as the other heritage genres like sout, samri, and khammari. His songs reflect Kuwait’s social and musical evolution, before and after independence.

In the upcoming concert “Bu Fahmy: Songs of Awadh Doukhi”, to be held at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on 28 January, we will celebrate his timeless works that embody Kuwait’s cultural essence. The event will feature singers Hamad Al-Manea, Fawaz Al-Marzouq, and Sultan Al-Muftah, accompanied by the musical ensemble under Dr Ayoub Khoder’s direction.

The opening ceremony of the 30^th Qurain Cultural Festival featuring artists Jassim bin Thani, Abdulaziz Al-Misbah, and Abdullah Mubarak, accompanied by a musical ensemble conducted by Dr Ayoub Khoder.

On February 3, the Drama Theatre will host the opening ceremony of the 30^th  Qurain Cultural Festival, organised by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters. The event, titled “Here is Kuwait”, will feature performances by Jassim bin Thani, Abdulaziz Al-Misbah, and Abdullah Mubarak, accompanied by a musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Dr. Ayoub Khoder.

The programme of the concert includes a selection of authentic Kuwaiti musical genres and songs by most renowned singers, such as Awadh Doukhi and Abdulkarim Abdulqader, as well as contemporary Kuwaiti and Arabic works. And different  medleys performed by the choir.

Attendance is free but requires registration via the app or website.

This musical evening honours the legacy of the late Kuwaiti artist Homoud Nasser, performed by Abdulaziz Alouis, Fahad Al-Salem, and Abdullah Tareq, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Ahmed Taha. 

The sudden passing of Kuwaiti singer Homoud Nasser in 2019 came as a shock to his fans and colleagues. However, he left behind a rich musical legacy, inspiring our upcoming concert titled “Always in Our Hearts”, to be held at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on 4 February. This tribute revisits his unforgettable songs, performed by Abdulaziz Alouis, Fahad Al-Salem, and Abdullah Tareq, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Ahmed Taha.

Homoud Nasser rose to fame in the late 1990s, transforming the sound of local songs alongside composer Ammar Al-Banna. His debut album “Ettamen” earned him widespread fame across the Arab world. With his remarkable voice, talent for composing, and distinctive style, Nasser became one of the most popular artists of the new Millenium. He released seven albums, including his final work, “Homoud Nasser 2019”, shortly before his untimely death”.

In January, the Studio Theatre will welcome renowned TV presenter Hamad Qalam to film new episodes of his popular talk show, Hamad Show, in celebration of its 10^th anniversary.

In January, the Studio Theatre will welcome renowned TV presenter Hamad to record new episodes of his popular talk show, Hamad Show, in celebration of its 10^th anniversary. Over two months, weekly episodes will be filmed in front of a live audience, featuring a lineup of Kuwaiti and Arab celebrity guests.

Notably, the Centre hosted the fourth season of this acclaimed programme in 2019, where eight episodes were filmed at the Studio Theatre. The set was completely transformed to reflect the show’s concept of hosting superstars and renowned guests in front of a live audience. The first episode featured celebrated Kuwaiti artist Nabil Shuail and Egyptian comedian Shaimaa Saif. The guest list that season included an impressive array of singers, actors, and prominent personalities such as Nawal El Zoghbi, Nadine Njeim, Amy Samir Ghanem, and Kuwaiti figures like Sheikha Majda Al-Sabah, Fatima Al-Safi, Amal Al-Awadhi, Bibi Al-Abdulmohsen, Tareq Al-Ali, and Saudi singer Aseel Abu Bakr, among others.

The Kuwaiti musical heritage with the beloved artist Tarek Al-Khurayef at the Amphitheatre next February.

The iconic song Hawed Al-Leil (Through the Night) by the late singer Aisha Al-Marta has become a symbol of musical events celebrating various facets of Kuwaiti folk music, particularly Samri. The Hawed Al-Leil concert series, held at the Amphitheatre for the past two years, has garnered widespread acclaim and audience enthusiasm.

This February, the series returns with the celebrated artist Tarek Al-Khurayef, renowned for his masterful renditions of Samri songs, promising an enchanting evening filled with the most beautiful works from our musical heritage.

A new talk with Lebanese writer and thinker, Dr Khaled Ghattas, where he explores seven promises that profoundly impact and shape life, offering insights on how to achieve the perfect balance. 

On 11 February, the Lebanese writer and thinker Dr Khaled Ghattas presents a new talk titled “The Seven Promises” at the Cinema Hall. In this engaging talk, he examines human behaviour, the motivations behind actions and decisions, and shares an inspiring personal journey. The talk will delve into the core drivers of human behaviour, uncovering the factors that disrupt the psyche and exploring the efforts needed to achieve a balance that unites inner fulfillment with healthy, meaningful relationships.

This inspiring lecture aims to empower individuals to embrace transformative changes and re-evaluate their lives through thoughtful reflection and practical guidance, enabling them to build a life rich in value and purpose.

A historical epic that blends music and drama, offering an artistic perspective on key historical events while showcasing Kuwait’s pioneering cultural role in knowledge exchange and its vision for the future.

To mark Kuwait’s designation as the Arab Media Capital and the Arab Culture Capital 2025, the National Theatre will host the epic historical production “The Earth’s Horizon” from 14–17 February as part of the official launch celebrations. Produced by the Ministry of Information, the show spans 300 years of Kuwait’s legacy of leadership and prosperity, highlighting its historical significance in trade and its role in the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

Presented as a visual fantasy, the production brings to life the late Kuwaiti astronomer Saleh Al-Ojairi, who reads the stars over Kuwait to recount key historical events. Through musical, dramatic, and choreographed tableaux, the performance explores the contributions of Arabs to astronomy and the prominent figures who shaped Kuwait’s thriving trade industry. It also reflects on how foreign travellers once referred to Kuwait as the “Marseille of the East,” acknowledging its strategic location. The show further traces Kuwait’s pursuit of knowledge and concludes with a dramatic portrayal of its vision for the future.

Under the direction of acclaimed theatre director Abdullah Abdulrasoul, “The Earth’s Horizon” features a distinguished cast of actors and singers from Kuwait and the Arab world, alongside performance groups and dance ensembles. The production blends theatre and music with advanced audiovisual effects and modern technologies, offering an immersive experience that seamlessly moves through history while honouring the essence of each era and Kuwait’s aspirations for the future.

Performed by the popular artist Suleiman Al-Qassar and his band, with the participation of the beloved singer Talal Al-Saidalani.

We welcome the week of National Day holidays with a special evening at the Amphitheatre, on February 20^th, featuring the renowned artist Suleiman Al-Qassar and his folk band. The event, titled “Songs of Kuwaiti Weddings”, highlights an important aspect of local heritage. Together, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Kuwaiti weddings, enriched by traditional songs and melodies. The beloved singer Talal Al-Saidalani will also participate in this memorable event.

For over 40 years, Suleiman Al-Qassar has gained widespread popularity for reviving wedding celebrations across Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and most of the Gulf countries. He has been dedicated to preserving and enriching traditional wedding music. During his travels, he drew inspiration from Bahrain’s “Al-Dazza”, which he adapted by quickening its rhythm and refining its lyrics. He also incorporated Kuwait’s Bedouin rythms, “Al-Biddawi,” into the “Al-Dazza” repertoire, transforming them into beloved wedding tunes. With a rich collection of these songs and more, the evening promises to be a delightful celebration of tradition and music.

The most beautiful Kuwaiti and Khaleeji songs, performed by the beloved artist, accompanied by the oud and piano in the Recital Hall.

During the National Day holidays, the Recital Hall will host this cherished concert, titled “An Evening with Fawaz Al-Rujaib” with the renowned artist Fawaz Al-Rujaib on Sunday, 23 February. Unlike traditional concerts, this performance features only two instruments—the oud and piano—creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements both the venue and the selection of songs. The artist will perform a mix of his most cherished songs alongside timeless classics by Kuwaiti legendary singers.

With its circular design, the Recital Hall provides an ideal setting for informal performances, offering audiences a sense of closeness to the performer and musicians, enhancing the magic of the evening.

A night not to be missed, featuring the great composer and a new encounter with his music and his masterful piano performance alongside a distinguished ensemble of musicians.

This April, the legendary composer Omar Khairat returns to the National Theatre, for two concerts, with a new selection of his works, to perform for his audience in Kuwait alongside an exceptional group of musicians. Omar Khairat’s concerts have become an annual tradition in our cultural seasons—an event we eagerly anticipate for the chance to immerse ourselves in his deeply moving and joyfully uplifting music while experiencing his brilliant piano artistry.

For over 40 years, Omar Khairat has redefined pure instrumental music in Egypt and the Arab world, leaving a lasting creative imprint. His compositions uniquely blend traditional Arabic music with classical and contemporary Western influences, creating a signature style that has captivated audiences. His film and television scores remain widely celebrated, earning him immense popularity across generations.

For the first time in Kuwait, as part of their global tour celebrating 20 years together, Blue, one of the UK’s most exciting and successful boy bands of the millennium, will perform their debut concert.

For the first time in Kuwait, as part of their global tour celebrating 20 years together, Blue—one of the UK’s most successful boy bands of the millennium—will perform live at the National Theatre on 10–11 April. This tour marks their return to the stage after a years-long hiatus. The group reunited in 2022 and released their latest album, Heart & Soul, featuring hits like “Haven’t Found You Yet” and “Dance with Me”. After kicking off in the UK, the tour has expanded to cities worldwide.

The British four-member band—Simon Webbe, Duncan James, Antony Costa, and Lee Ryan—formed in 2000 and has sold over 16 million albums globally. Their first three albums all topped the UK Official Album Chart, and they have collaborated with music icons such as Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Lil’ Kim. Fans can look forward to a nostalgic setlist featuring their greatest hits, including “You Make Me Wanna”, “All Rise”, “If You Come Back”, “and One Love”, as part of their Greatest Hits Tour.

A special evening celebrating the art of Ṣawt, a genre deeply rooted in our cultural heritage, featuring the renowned artist Salman Al Ammari and the musical ensemble led by Maestro Dr Khaled Noori.

This April, we celebrate the art of Ṣawt, a musical form that emerged in the mid-19th century and continues to captivate audiences to this day. On 13 April, the Sheikh Jaber Al Ali Concert Hall will host “A Night of Aswat with Salman Al Ammari”. The concert will take us on an enchanting journey through some of the most celebrated traditional Ṣawt melodies from Kuwait and Bahrain, alongside a selection of modernised Ṣawt pieces that gained prominence in the 1960s. The evening will feature a captivating performance by the choir and veteran singer Salman Al Ammari, accompanied by a musical ensemble under the direction of Maestro Dr Khaled Noori.

The art of Ṣawt is distinguished by its rich poetic expressions, featuring sung poetry such as and classical Arabic poetry, as well as distinct rhythmic patterns like Shami, Arabi, and Khayali. Instrumentation plays a vital role in defining the unique character of this art, with the oud and mirwas standing out as key instruments. Other essential elements include sharbaka (rhythmic clapping) and zafan (a dignified dance), all of which contribute to the enduring popularity of Ṣawt across the region. These elements have solidified its place in Kuwaiti musical heritage, distinguishing it from other Arabic music types.

Known as the King of Music, this concert revives the iconic songs and melodies of late composer Baligh Hamdi, performed by Reham Abdel-Hakim Abdelghani and Khalaf Al-Mashouf, accompanied by the musical ensemble under the direction of maestro Dr Alaa Abdel-Salam.

This musical evening, hosted at the National Theatre on 17 April, celebrates the unforgettable compositions of Baligh Hamdi, an extraordinary talent in the world of Arabic music during the 20th century. Over his prolific career, spanning the 1950s to the early 1990s, Baligh Hamdi composed more than 3,000 songs for many of Egypt’s and the Arab world’s greatest singers. His contributions included 11 songs for Umm Kulthum, 30 for Abdel Halim Hafez, and a similar number for Warda, with whom he shared a profound love story that culminated in marriage. Their collaboration produced some of the most iconic romantic songs that continue to resonate with audiences today.

Baligh Hamdi also discovered young talents like Afaf Radi and Mayada El-Hennawi, who rose to fame performing his remarkable compositions. Despite countless musical evenings dedicated to his work, they are never enough to fully explore the magical world of melodies he created or to enjoy his rich legacy as a musical genius of the 20th century.

In this concert, we present a new selection of the King of Music masterpieces, brought to life by the extraordinary voice of Reham Abdel-Hakim and the rising Kuwaiti singer Khalaf Al-Mashouf, accompanied by the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Alaa Abdel-Salam.

A tribute night honouring the unforgettable late Tunisian singer, revisiting a collection of her most beautiful songs, performed by Rolane, Eman Shmety, and Redwan El Asmar. 

For the first time in our cultural seasons, we dedicate a night to the songs of the late Tunisian singer Zekra, whose voice remains timeless despite her passing. On 24 April, the National Theatre will host a special concert bearing her name, “Zekra”, celebrating her most beloved songs, performed by the gifted Rolane, Eman Shmety, and Redwan El Asmar.

Zekra possessed one of the most exquisite voices in Arabic music, conveying the many shades of love with unmatched emotional depth. Her legacy continues to be cherished by fans to this day. Despite her sudden passing and relatively limited discography, her admirers remain captivated by her enchanting renditions of poetic lyrics and melodies across various Arabic dialects. She particularly excelled in Khaleeji music, collaborating with some of its greatest icons, including Mohammed Abdou, Talal Maddah, and Abu Bakr Salem.

A unique concert for all animation lovers, offering an innovative musical experience that blends old and new tunes from iconic Arabic and international cartoon shows. 

Animation has long played a profound role in shaping our memories and emotions, with its captivating songs and stories sparking imagination and creativity in children and adults alike. This special concert, to be hosted at the National Theatre on 7 and 10 May, offers a creative journey through beloved melodies from Arabic and international animated classics, blending nostalgia with innovation.

The programme features iconic theme songs and memorable soundtracks from renowned animated productions, spanning from the 1970s to the present. Enhanced by cutting-edge visual and audio technologies, the concert promises a captivating experience, with renowned Lebanese director Nicolas Khabbaz’s artistic innovative vision and Maestro Dr Khaled Noori’s vibrant, contemporary orchestral arrangements breathing new life into these timeless themes.

A musical evening telling a modern love story written by lyricist Saher, with music rearranged by Ammar Al-Bunni and conducted by maestro Dr Ahmed Al-Oud.

 The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall will host “The Story of Shoug and Hamad”, on 21-22 May, a narrative concert unlike any other. This innovative experience invites audiences on an emotional journey through a series of vocal scenes and poetic verses that trace the evolving relationship between Shoug and Hamad. Written as a poem by the renowned lyricist Saher, the story unfolds seamlessly within the musical fabric of the performance giving it a distinct dramatic character.

The music blends newly arranged versions of beloved Arabic and Khaleeji songs, rearranged by acclaimed composer Ammar Al-Bunni. The vocal ensemble is musically directed by Hussa Al-Humaidhi and made up of talented young Kuwaiti voices. The production is led by maestro Dr Ahmed Al-Oud, with creative direction by Maryam Al-Khatrash.

“The Story of Shoug and Hamad” is not just a concert, but a poetic sound experience that celebrates love, memory, and longing—offering audiences a fresh and unforgettable musical storytelling.