What’s On

Our most successful productions returns with an enhanced directorial vision by Jassim Al-Qames, accompanied by a large musical ensemble conducted by Dr Khaled Noori.

Starting 12 October, the National Theatre welcomes back “The Eighties… The Knockout”, a special highlight of the Centre’s 10^th anniversary celebrations. The production ranked among the Centre’s most popular and acclaimed shows, produced by the Centre or hosted at the National Theatre and numerous theatres across the Gulf. Audiences have repeatedly called for its return, despite the show having already been staged three times in previous seasons.

The show takes us on an exciting journey into the vibrant world of the 1980s television and its rich repertoire. This time, the production returns with an enhanced directorial vision by Jassim Al-Qames, accompanied by a large musical ensemble conducted by Dr Khaled Noori. “The Eighties… The Knockout” will be the final opportunity to experience this remarkable production in a new way whether you missed it before or have already seen it!

Another evening with the beloved singer, celebrating rhythms that have passed from one generation to the next while remaining deeply rooted in our hearts.

Following the success of “Samri and Qadri with Tareq Al-Khurayef” last season, we were keen to give Kuwaiti musical heritage a special place in this celebratory season, particularly in October as we mark the Centre’s 10th anniversary. On 19 October, Tareq Al-Khurayef returns to the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall for another evening of Samri and Qadri that celebrates some of the Kuwaiti and khaleeji folk music.

Moving between the captivating rhythms of Samri and the soulful, tarab-filled spirit of Qadri, Al-Khurayef will perform a wide selection of songs we enjoyed generation after generation, in an atmosphere that evokes the gatherings and evenings of old Kuwait and the authentic rhythms associated with them.

A poetry evening with Kuwaiti poet Fahad Al-Adwani, presenting a selection of his new poems alongside some of his most celebrated works.

Poetry has long been regarded as the register of the Arabs, with its evenings reviving memories of the great poets across eras. On Wednesday, 21 October, the Recital Hall hosts the first poetry evening of the season, welcoming the renowned Kuwaiti poet Fahad Al-Adwani. Known as the “Poet of Romance,” Al-Adwani’s work is distinguished by its lyrical language and emotional sincerity. Love, longing, and human emotion are ever-present in his poetry, expressed in a tender style that speaks directly to the heart.

In this evening, titled “Sahabet Kaif”, the name of one of his anthologies, Al-Adwani will share a selection of his latest poems, revealing personal and emotional experiences through his signature voice, alongside familiar works, in an intimate encounter marked by warmth, emotion, and genuine connection with the audience.

The famous British band returns to Kuwait for two concerts as part of its 25th anniversary world tour.

Following the success of their first concerts in Kuwait in April 2025, the members of the famous British band “Blue”; Antony Costa, Duncan James, Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe, are keeping their promise to return to their fans at the National Theatre to perform two concerts on 22 and 23 October, as part of their world tour celebrating their 25^th anniversary, presenting some of the band’s greatest hits alongside songs from the new album, “Reflections”.

Since making its debut in the early 2000s, Blue has established itself as one of Britain’s most successful pop groups, selling more than 16 million albums worldwide. Three consecutive albums reached No. 1 in the UK, while 11 of its singles made the Top 10. Over the years, the British band have also collaborated with international stars including Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Lil’ Kim.

A regional conference celebrating women in leadership and the real impact of inclusive leadership.

The first edition of the “Women in Leadership” Conference will take place on 24 October at the Cinema Hall, a high-profile cultural event that unites influential women and allies from across the region. The conference presents real-life leadership journeys through keynote speeches and panel discussions featuring prominent figures from government, business, health, culture, education, innovation, and social development.

The conference addresses six core themes reflecting the region’s leadership journey, including governance, decision-making, and leadership under pressure, aiming to spotlight inspiring role models, encourage meaningful dialogue, and offer insights that contribute to strengthening the leadership landscape. The event takes the form of a refined and impactful evening that honours women’s achievements and reaffirms Kuwait’s commitment to cultural leadership and social advancement.

Kuwaiti composer and conductor Nawaf Gheraibah presents his first major symphonic project with the Vanguard Symphony Orchestra.

On 24 October, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall welcomes the Vanguard Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Kuwaiti composer and conductor Nawaf Gheraibah, for the performance of his work “Opus I: Orbis Luna”. Developed over several years, this symphonic project moves between moments of quite reflection and the expressive power of the full orchestra.

Recorded live in Cairo in January 2026 with nearly 80 musicians from the Vanguard Symphony Orchestra, the work includes “Violin Concerto No. 1”, featuring soloist Salma Sorour, and “Symphony No. 1: Hope”. The title “Orbis Luna” draws inspiration from the orbit and cycles of the moon, evoking the interplay between darkness and light, movement and stillness.

Having taken shape and been recorded in Cairo, “Orbis Luna” now comes to Kuwait for a live performance, bringing Gheraibah’s music home.

An innovative concert that brings different songs together, performed by Fahad Al Salem, Jassim Bin Thani, Abdullah Tareq and Khamis Al Khamis.

Many songs share similar themes and lyrics, so that a verse from one can flow seamlessly into another, making them sound as though they were one song. This is the idea behind our upcoming concert, “Two Songs in One”, which will be held at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall on October 28, performed by young Kuwaiti singers Fahad Al Salem, Jassim Bin Thani, Abdullah Tareq and Khamis Al Khamis, accompanied by the musical ensemble conducted by Dr Ahmed Al Oud.

The programme features a selection of some of the popular Kuwaiti, khaleeji and Arabic songs, old and new, pairing two songs into a single performance through harmonious melodies and closely related lyrics, so that the music and meaning complement each other in the newly created piece. This type of concert offers musical variety and unexpected moments of “tarab”, while requiring careful selection of both lyrics and melodies to create seamless and cohesive medleys.

The Beatles’s magic is brought to life in a contemporary orchestral experience, featuring Maestro Damián Mahler’s acclaimed arrangements.

For fans of the legendary British band The Beatles, the National Theatre hosts an extraordinary musical experience this October, titled “The Beatles Symphonic Fantasy”, which celebrates their enduring legacy through an innovative orchestral vision combining the power of symphonic arrangements with the spirit of one of the most influential bands in music history. The show brings together a 13-piece classical orchestra and Maestro Damián Mahler’s acclaimed arrangements, presenting some of the band’s most beloved songs in a fresh interpretation that preserves their unmistakable essence while giving them greater musical richness and depth.

The production features a select group of 4 singers and 13 musicians chosen by Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club, where The Beatles first rose to fame. Through their distinctive vocal styles and stage presence, the singers capture the spirit of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. The concert takes audiences on a musical journey through the melodies that shaped The Beatles’ history, in an experience that blends nostalgia with creativity and celebrates the extraordinary legacy of a band that remains one of the greatest musical phenomena in history.

An evening celebrating the Khaleeji music and the authenticity of its melodies, offering audiences the chance to enjoy Musaed Al-Balushi’s singing and oud playing.

 For the second consecutive year, the Recital Hall hosts “Dandana”, an evening distinguished by an atmosphere that is both relaxed and refined, bringing its featured singer closer to the audience in a warm musical encounter that captures the spirit of Khaleeji music. Following the success of its first concert, “Dandana” returns on 3 November with Kuwaiti artist Musaed Al-Balushi, taking audiences on a musical journey through a selection of favourite Khaleeji songs and melodies.

Al-Balushi will perform a selection of songs that have long resonated with audiences, accompanied by his oud, which gives the evening its distinctive, authentic character. Away from the scale and spectacle of large concerts, “Dandana” creates a closer connection between artist and audience, and between voice, melody and lyrics, offering a special opportunity to enjoy Al-Balushi’s singing and musicianship.

The annual date with one of Arabic music’s most distinguished voices, featuring a new selection of her own songs and timeless Arabic classics.

Mai Farouk’s concerts at the National Theatre have become an annual tradition for Kuwaiti audiences, with the star appearing in every one of its cultural seasons since the opening of the Centre. On 5 November, she returns to the National Theatre, presenting a new selection of Arabic classics with her powerful voice and remarkable talent. With her distinctive style, Mai breathes new life into songs that have faded from memory over time.

Her concerts also feature her own songs, eagerly awaited by her fans, particularly those from her latest album, “Tareekhi” (My History), alongside her celebrated “Ya Shams Ya Mnawara” (O Shiny Sun) and her latest single, “Habayebna” (Our Loved Ones), which was recently released and has enjoyed great success across digital platforms.

An evening with the renowned Bahraini band Al Ekhwa, joined by Bahraini singer Abdullah Al-Qattan.

We begin the Amphitheatre concerts on Friday, 6 November, with a special evening featuring Bahraini Band Al Ekhwa, one of the Gulf’s most celebrated and popular music groups. Following the passing of its founder and leader, Ali Bahar, and other members, the band has continued its musical journey in recent years with a renewed line-up and a contemporary spirit, led by founding member Wajeeh Hassan. While preserving its distinctive musical identity and artistic legacy, Al Ekhwa Band has returned to the stage, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from audiences.

In their upcoming concert at the Amphitheatre, Al Ekhwa Band will revisit some of their best-loved songs, which remain firmly rooted in their fans’ memories, including “Ana Wel Leil Wel Gamra”( Me, the Night and the Moon), “Marrait Ala Babkom” (I Passed by Your Door), “Al Barha” (Last Night), “Aataref” (I Confess), “Yemken Tensouny”(You May Forget Me), a “Mishtaq” (Longing) and “Ya Sahbi” (My Friend). Bahraini singer Abdullah Al-Qattan will join the band for this special evening, adding his distinctive presence to a night celebrating Al Ekhwa’s enduring legacy and long-standing career, while bringing together cherished memories and the spirit of today.

The new term of the Music School begins on 7 November, with classes every Saturday and Wednesday.

The new term of the Music School begins on 7 November and runs until 2 December, with classes every Saturday and Wednesday. The School welcomes participants aged 14 and above and offers both individual and group classes under the guidance of a distinguished team of academic specialists in a wide range of Eastern and Western instruments, in addition to Arabic and operatic singing. The School also offers intensive courses in selected instruments.

The course consists of eight 50-minute training sessions and includes eight solfège classes (music notation reading), held at 6:00 PM for all students, except those enrolled in Arabic singing and guitar. The programme also includes a lecture on music culture and history.

For registration and more information, please visit JACC website or mobile app.

The Ballet School resumes its classes in November, taking place on Saturdays only, with American instructor Shelby Archbell.

Following a break during the summer holiday, the Ballet School resumes its classes from 7 to 28 November. The school welcomes girls from the age of four and up, with classes held from 4:00 pm to 7:30 pm on Saturdays only.

Classes are led by American instructor Shelby Archbell, who has 20 years of experience in dance and training. The programme includes a beginner’s class for young girls aged 4-6, a class for girls aged 7-9 and a classical ballet class, for students aged 10 years and above.

For registration and more information, please visit JACC website or mobile app.

The School returns in November with instructor Hanaa Issa, offering classes in the fundamentals of traditional Khaleeji movement and performance.

The School of Kuwaiti Traditional Performance resumes its classes this November, from 7 to 28 November, with instructor Hanaa Issa. The course explores a diverse range of Kuwaiti traditional performance forms, including Samri, Qadri, Ashouri, Basta, Muthallath and Marbou’, as well as the rumba rhythm. Classes take place every Saturday from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM and are open to ladies aged 20 and above, at all levels.

Throughout the classes, participants will learn the fundamental rhythms and movements associated with each form and explore their distinctive characteristics. The course also develops movement expression and rhythmic awareness while encouraging interaction and harmony within the group.

The school provides a fully private training environment, ensuring the comfort and privacy of all participants. For registration and more information, please visit JACC website or mobile app.

The Paraguayan harp virtuoso, known for his performances with renowned Greek composer Yanni, makes his Kuwait debut.

On Saturday, 7 November, the Amphitheatre welcomes internationally acclaimed harpist and singer Víctor Espínola for his first performance in Kuwait, in an evening of music to be enjoyed in the refreshing autumn weather. The concert rounds off a weekend filled with contrasting sounds and musical styles, beginning on Friday evening with Bahraini group Al Ekhwa Band.

Espínola became known to audiences around the world through his performances with renowned Greek composer Yanni on several of his tours. His international career has taken him to stages in more than 70 countries, including Egypt, where he performed at the Pyramids. For his upcoming concert, the harp takes centre stage, with Espínola joined by eight other musicians in a creative musical experience where Paraguayan traditions meet a contemporary global vision.

The musical that achieved great success in Cairo comes to Kuwait for one night only this December.

Following its great success on one of Cairo’s largest stages at the City of Arts and Culture in the New Administrative Capital, the National Theatre welcomes the musical “Umm Kulthum..Enchanted by the Voice of the Lady” on 4 December for one night only. This exceptional large-scale production offers a unique experience that goes beyond traditional theatre.

The production tells the story of the legendary singer Umm Kulthum, portrayed by Rehab Metawa, alongside a large cast of actors. Combining dramatic performance, live music, period costumes and contemporary scenography, the production creates a distinctive visual and musical experience that brings Umm Kulthum’s timeless legacy to the stage with a modern spirit, preserving its authenticity while presenting it to audiences through a fresh perspective.

Canadian singer-songwriter Margaux Sauvé brings her musical project to Kuwait for the first time.

Canadian singer-songwriter Margaux Sauvé brings her musical project “Ghostly Kisses” to Kuwait for the first time on 10 December, performing at the Amphitheatre. Known for her soft, distinctive vocals and atmospheric sound, Sauvé creates music that moves between dream pop, electronic textures and intimate melodies, shaped by deeply personal songwriting.

Raised in a family of musicians, Sauvé began playing the violin at the age of five before turning to songwriting while studying psychology at university in Quebec City. Working closely with producer and co-writer Louis-Étienne Santais, she has since built an international following through releases including “The City Holds My Heart”, “Heaven, Wait” and her 2024 album “Darkroom”.

In her live performances, Sauvé’s delicate vocals are accompanied by layers of synths, strings and piano, creating the intimate and atmospheric sound that has come to define “Ghostly Kisses”. The name was inspired by a line from a William Faulkner poem, which Sauvé felt captured the romantic and otherworldly character of her voice.