Arabic theatre enters a new phase

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Freej Folklore is using cutting-edge multimedia technology to transcend traditional Arab theatre productions.

Dubai-based production companies, Lammtara and JBM have employed cutting-edge multimedia components to create the largest Arab theatrical production ever in the Middle East, Freej Folklore.

Growing from the success of its award-winning TV series, Freej, Lammtara has partnered with JBM to integrate state-of-the-art technologies to visualise a show that celebrates Arab traditions, culture and heritage.

Julien Monié, audio production manager for Freej Folklore said the production would integrate high-end multimedia components that had never been used in the region, and possibly the world, before.

“International technical director, Sam Jordan is working with us to create a virtual theatre, where the actors interact live on stage with the 3D animated characters,” said Monié.

“We are using a 41.5m wide stage divided in four lateral sections; one front stage; one back stage and in between there will be a virtual theatre where a screen from beneath the stage will reflect images upwards appearing like floating holographs.”

He said the show would feature large, multi-layer projections, with 4K HD projectors flown-in specially from France.

Monié said around seven custom-designed screens, with one large-scale screen spanning the width of the stage, would give the show a panoramic, and immersive feel.

As the production requires a large rig of equipment, Monié said the specialist services of Gearhouse Staging Connections would be required to bring the production to fruition.

Gearhouse’ project manager, Phil Smith, said the company would supply lighting, audio and rigging for the production, which included more than 100 LED Chroma-Qs, 80 Clay Paky Alpha Wash 1200s and Spot 1200s, more than 180 Pixel Range Pixel Pars, 24 of ETC Source Fours and 26 of Atomic’s 3000 strobe.

“We are also supplying more than 300 metres of truss for the show along with 31 of LoadStar’s one tonne and 66 half tonne hoists,” he added.

“For the audio components we are supplying three main hangs of L’Accoustics d-Vdosc system with six of L’Acoustics 218 subs, 12 of L’Acoustic’s 115FM to provide rear left and right and, surround left and right fill, as well as stage monitors and for front fills.”

French sound designer Michel Colin has also been added to the specialist team and will run FOH and will use Gearhouse’s Yamaha PM5D mixing desk.

Freej Folklore will be staged at the Madinat Jumeirah Arena from January 8 to 19, as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival and deliver 19 shows in English and 11 in Arabic.

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