What’s On

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.

World-renowned cellist Bagjan Oktyabr comes to Kuwait for the first time to present his acclaimed programme “Soul Therapy” performing music from some of the most beloved Turkish TV series—as well as iconic international songs.

World-renowned cellist Bagjan Oktyabr comes to Kuwait for the first time to present his acclaimed programme “Soul Therapy” on 26 May at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall, accompanied by a chamber orchestra. In “Soul Therapy”, he performs music from some of the most beloved Turkish TV series—including his standout interpretation of “Kara Sevda” (Dark Love)—as well as iconic international hits, romantic pieces, and popular folk tunes.

Oktyabr, whose performances have captivated millions on social media, is best known for his emotive playing and viral videos filmed in breathtaking locations around the world. Through his expressive style and magnetic stage presence, he brings a unique blend of passion and elegance to every performance. Soul Therapy isn’t just a concert—it’s an emotional journey that speaks directly to the heart, reminding us why music is often called the true therapy of the soul.

A grand performance bringing the essence of Kuwaiti music to life with heritage songs, reimagined in a contemporary orchestral arrangement, led by maestro Dr. Ahmed Al-Oud and featuring artists Salman Al-Amari and Abdulaziz Al-Misbah.

This May, the National Theatre will host “The Spirit of Kuwait”, a musical production that revives and reimagines Kuwait’s musical heritage in a modern orchestral style. While embracing contemporary elements, the production remains deeply rooted in the country’s rich cultural and historical legacy. The Spirit of Kuwait showcases the vibrant rhythms of Kuwaiti folklore, including Samri, Sout, Khumari, and Singeeni. Presented in a captivating blend of visuals and music, the performance incorporates traditional Kuwaiti instruments such as the Manjour, Sarnai, Yahla, Merwas, Hawan, Tar, Bahri drum, and Munjeb, seamlessly blended into a grand orchestral arrangement. Newly composed pieces by celebrated Yemeni composer and conductor Mohamed Al-ghoom will further reflect Kuwait’s rich musical heritage.

The orchestra—comprising more than 70 participants and blending traditional Kuwaiti and classical orchestral instruments—will be conducted by maestro Dr Ahmed Al-Oud. Cutting-edge visual and sound effects will elevate the production, with vocals by celebrated singer Salman Al-Amari and rising talent Abdulaziz Al-Misbah.