With rehearsals for Dubai’s first Emirati under way, the cultural initiative that is a key part of Expo 2020 Dubai is sending musical ripples into the community thanks to a range of outreach initiatives. Music, singing, storytelling and interactive group learning experiences are being organised to introduce opera to schoolchildren.
“Al Wasl is the first Emirati opera, with music by award-winning composer Mohammed Fairouz and dialogues penned by best-selling author Maha Gargash. We are confident that it will touch the hearts and souls of children, as its story is based on unity and communication,” said Dr Hayat Shamsuddin, Senior Vice President, Arts and Culture, Expo 2020 Dubai.
“The programme is designed to have a big impact by reaching out to music teachers in various schools in the UAE, through educational initiatives specifically developed to enrich and develop the technical skills of students,” he added.
Commencing in October, the first series of interactive workshops has been created in collaboration with the Welsh National Opera, which will perform Al Wasl during Expo 2020 Dubai. Children will have the chance to meet experts in drama, choral performance and theatre while teachers that attend will learn key techniques in educational singing.
A second program bringing together 250 students from multiple schools will perform at Expo 2020 in a series of 30-minute shows.
Al Wasl Opera narrates the heritage and culture of the UAE, showcasing its achievements and future ambitions. It will be performed in Arabic and English during Expo 2020 Dubai.
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