Riyadh, April 28, 2024, Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape has been transformed with the grand debut of "Zarqa Al Yamama," a groundbreaking opera that not only marks the kingdom's first but also stands as the Arab world's largest opera spectacle to date.
Delving into the rich tapestry of pre-Islamic history, "Zarqa Al Yamama" narrates the tale of a formidable woman from the Geddes tribe, sounding the alarm about imminent danger. The libretto, skillfully crafted by Saudi poet and writer Saleh Zamanan, intricately intertwines heritage and historical literature, casting a spellbinding Arabic narrative.
Leading the ensemble are Saudi talents Khayran Alzahrani, Sawsan Albahiti, and Rimaaz Oqbi, complemented by an array of international luminaries such as renowned mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly, Aleksandar Stefanoski, Amelia Wawrzon, Serena Farnocchia, Paride Cataldo, and George von Bergen, alongside a talented cohort of Saudi performers.
Years of dedicated preparation have culminated in this monumental production, a sentiment echoed by Sultan Al-Bazie, CEO of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission. With a diverse ensemble comprising 18 nationalities, the opera seamlessly blends directing, vocals, music, and acting expertise.
According to Al-Bazie, "Zarqa Al Yamama" is a watershed moment for Saudi culture, epitomizing the highest international standards while narrating one of the region's most revered heritage stories.
Artistic Director Ivan Vukcevic highlights the unique challenge of melding Arabic language nuances with European operatic traditions. To facilitate this fusion, Arabic text has been transcribed into Latin script, enabling non-Arab performers to masterfully articulate the language.
"Zarqa Al Yamama" unveils a timeless saga rooted in Arabian Peninsula heritage, spotlighting the wisdom and fortitude of a Geddes tribe woman navigating her people through perilous times.
The opera runs until May 4, featuring a total of 10 performances spanning 8 days at the King Fahd Cultural Center in Riyadh, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in this captivating cultural extravaganza.
