Dubai Opera is thrilled to embark on its 2024-2025 season with the announcement of over 50 international productions coming to the stage.
This season’s schedule encompasses a range of genres from classical ballet to international rock and folk, to contemporary musicals and symphonic concerts, each reaffirming Dubai Opera’s position as the premier performing arts destination in the United Arab Emirates.
Following a record-breaking 2023-24 season with an attendance of over 250,000 guests, Emaar’s Dubai Opera will launch into its 8th year with a gala of performances by the Polish National Opera and Ballet between 13 and 21 September.
Visitors to the extravagant venue can expect to be dazzled by vibrant and innovative performances over the coming months, many of which will debut in the Emirates for the very first time.
Dubai Opera thanks their valued strategic partners, Dubai Culture and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, for their unwavering support in enriching the cultural landscape and bringing world-class performances to life.
Suhaila Ghubash – Vice President, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment said: “Our collaborative achievements with Dubai Opera reflect the successful synergy between the public and private sectors in the city. They also align with the strategic goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure, and make it the best place to visit, live and work in. A shining symbol of Dubai’s commitment to artistic innovation and cultural diversity, Dubai Opera stands as an impressive testament to the guidance and support of our visionary leadership to position Dubai as an international hub for events and entertainment. As it launches this highly anticipated new season, we celebrate Dubai Opera’s pivotal role in enriching our city’s vibrant arts scene, and we look forward to an exceptional line-up of events, offering unforgettable experiences to residents and visitors.”
Dr Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of Arts and Literature at Dubai Culture, said: “The arts play a crucial role in the development and enrichment of Dubai’s creative landscape, and Dubai Culture’s commitment to supporting numerous cultural activities is a true testament to that. The Dubai Opera 2024–2025 season offers an expansive platform to celebrate creativity, as well as Dubai’s rich cultural diversity and social fabric. It serves as an entertainment and educational stage that empowers talent and helps them showcase their musical, theatrical, and artistic abilities to the public. Dubai Culture’s partnership with Dubai Opera aims to stimulate a conducive environment capable of nurturing emerging talent and equipping them with the tools they need to develop their skills.”
Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera, said: “We are delighted to be back with a truly inclusive season, featuring something for every taste. Following a record-breaking 2023/24 season, we look forward to once again catering to the entire community and beyond, with a mix of genre-spanning, dynamic and renowned performances. From pop to opera, classical ballet to contemporary rhythms, jazz and musicals to symphony, rock music to international folk, and contemporary circus, film and chamber music festivals, this season we will explore performing arts as a crossroads of sounds, languages and cultures.”
ANNOUNCING A NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH AMERICAN EXPRESS MIDDLE EAST
Dubai Opera is proud to announce American Express Middle East as its new ‘Official Payments Partner’. The collaboration between the two brands will give exclusive access to American Express Card Members to an array of captivating performances at Dubai Opera over the next two seasons.
Mazin Khoury, CEO of American Express Middle East, reflected on this partnership: “We are thrilled to partner with Dubai Opera, offering our Card Members priority access to world-class performances. This partnership goes beyond providing unique benefits; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences solidifying our role as a leader in delivering exceptional value, enriching experiences and truly elevating the lifestyle of our Card Members.
2024-2025 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
OPENING WEEK – THREE GRAND SHOWS – 13 TO 21 SEPTEMBER
During opening week, three major productions will take to the stage, each produced by the Polish National Opera and Ballet, whose artistic talents across opera, ballet and symphonic music boast a long and celebrated history.
Aida | 13 to 15 September
Back in Dubai by popular demand, Aida is a timeless tale of love, sacrifice, and betrayal in ancient Egypt. Italian director and set designer Roberto Laganà Manoli, who passed away in 2020, legacy lives on with a timeless blend of spectacular visuals and emotive performances.
Giselle | 18 to 21 September
Giselle brings back to life the historic choreography by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot that debuted in 1841 at the Paris Opera. This tragic and romantic ballet tells the story of a young girl who dies of love and is transformed into a spirit that haunts the forest.
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony | 22 September
Celebrating 200 years since its premiere, Beethoven’s final complete symphony is regarded as a masterpiece of Western classical music. Guests can expect a remarkable performance as the Polish National Opera Orchestra and the Dubai Festival Choir, bring it to the stage for one night only.
OPERA
Joining Verdi’s masterpiece, Aida on this season’s opera bill is Tchaikovsky’s grand operatic adaptation of the great Russian novel Eugene Onegin:
Eugene Onegin | 20 to 21 September
Tchaikovsky’s acclaimed masterpiece will make its UAE debut, brought to life by the Brno Theatre from the Czech Republic.
BALLET & DANCE
Giselle | 18 to 21 September
The Polish National Ballet will bring the timeless classical ballet Giselle to Dubai Opera. Supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, this enchanting performance promises to captivate audiences with its beauty and grace.
LA Dance Project – Romeo & Juliet Suite | 17 to 18 October
Benjamin Millepied’s Romeo & Juliet Suite will be performed by L.A. Dance Project at Dubai Opera. This modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic explores new dimensions of dance through innovative staging and live projections.
The Nutcracker | 19 to 22 December
The Nutcracker will grace the stage of Dubai Opera, performed by the Ballet Theatre and State Opera Orchestra of the Astana Theatre. This enchanting ballet brings a magical world to life, perfect for the festive season.
Modanse | 15 January
World-renowned ballerina Svetlana Zakharova will take the stage at Dubai Opera for Modanse, a double-bill performance. Joined by top dancers from the Bolshoi Theatre, this event promises an evening of ballet brilliance.
La Bayadere | 14 to 16 February
The classical ballet La Bayadere, performed by the National Theatre of Brno, comes to Dubai Opera. Known for its majestic choreography and vivid storytelling, this performance is not to be missed.
Tango After Dark | 26 to 27 April
Experience the ultimate theatrical tango performance, Tango After Dark, straight from Argentina. This thrilling show offers a sultry, intimate evening filled with passion and expert dancing.
Carmina Burana| 23 to 24 May
Famed choreographer Edward Clug presents Carmina Burana, set to the powerful music of Carl Orff. This evocative dance production makes its Dubai Opera debut, offering a mesmerising experience.
The Pulse | 9 to 11 May
Acclaimed modern circus troupe Gravity & Other Myths presents The Pulse at Dubai Opera. This breathtaking performance combines acrobatics and choral music in a visually stunning and powerful modern circus experience.
STOMP | 29 to 31 May
The world-famous theatrical hit STOMP makes its UAE debut at Dubai Opera. Known for its energetic, rhythm-driven performances, the STOMP perfomers transform everyday objects into musical instruments in this unique show.
SYMPHONIC & CHAMBER MUSIC
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony | 22 September
Celebrating 200 years since its premiere, Beethoven’s final complete symphony is regarded as a masterpiece of Western classical music. Guests can expect a remarkable performance as the Polish National Opera Orchestra and the Dubai Festival Choir join forces, as part of the opening week at Dubai Opera.
Max Richter: The Four Seasons Recomposed | 1 November
With a beautiful recomposition of the Vivaldi violin concertos, “The Four Seasons”, contemporary classical composer Max Richter brings his moving and widely popular reinterpretation to Dubai Opera.
The Limitless Orchestra: From Strauss to Zimmer | 4 to 5 January
Featuring a special guest appearance from Hans Zimmer himself, The Limitless Orchestra and Aleksey Igudesman revitalise the timeless works of Johann Strauss, skillfully blending the cherished compositions of the king of the waltz with the epic film music of Hollywood legend Hans Zimmer. This ingenious fusion incorporates musical styles from around the globe.
Mozart’s Requiem | 18 February
The Brno Theatre
Mozart’s Requiem, is quite simply one of the greatest pieces of music ever composed and will be featured as a special one night event as part of Brno Theatre’s residency at Dubai Opera.
Max Richter | 26 February
One of the most acclaimed and influential composers of this century, Max Richter, arrives in Dubai as part of his highly anticipated first-ever world tour where he will perform his ninth studio album “In a landscape” alongside his iconic Blue Notebooks album. The concert will be performed with the American Contemporary Music Ensemble
MUSICALS
Umm Kulthum & The Golden Era | 12-13 October
This highly acclaimed musical production returns to Dubai Opera after sell-out seasons in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Bahrain. Join Syrian singer Lubana al-Quntar as Umm Kulthum, for an incredible music-theatre production which tells the story of a woman who made it on her own in a man’s world, to become a legend: Umm Kulthum, the Star of the Orient.
Singin’ in the Rain | 30 November to 14 December
Step back in time to Hollywood’s golden era with Singin’ in the Rain, premiering in the UAE for the first time. Directed by acclaimed West End Theatre Director Jonathan Church, with Andrew Wright’s high-energy choreography and Simon Higlett’s stunning set design, the show promises a visual and auditory feast with live rain showers on stage every night.
Sweeney Todd | 1 to 8 February
The acclaimed Broadway musical thriller Sweeney Todd by Stephen Sondheim centres on the story of the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. This production by Victorian Opera and New Zealand Opera is set to light up the stage for an eight-day run.
CONCERTS
Carla Bruni | 27 September
Italian French singer-songwriter Carla Bruni, is set to wow Dubai Opera with her captivating songs and irresistible stage presence as she performs hits from her back catalogue including her debut album “Quelqu’un m’a dit,” which brought her international acclaim and spent 34 weeks in the top 10 of the French Albums Chart.
Umberto Tozzi – The Final Tour | 28 September
With a career spanning 50 years, Umberto Tozzi is an icon of the Italian music scene. Join a momentous evening as Tozzi brings his farewell tour to Dubai Opera, featuring greatest hits such as “Ti Amo” and “Gloria”.
Buena Vista All Stars | 4 October
Buena Vista All Stars is a timeless classic of Afro-Cuban nostalgia, offering breathtaking performances that channel the spirit of Cuban music like no other. This special night, “Una Noche En La Habana,” features Ibrahim Ferrer Jr., the son of Buena Vista Social Club’s golden-voiced singer, along with original members such as Barbarito Torres.
Gustavo Santaolalla | 5 October
Argentine music legend Gustavo Santaolalla takes to the Dubai stage for the first time ever to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his iconic album ‘Ronroco’. Guests will enjoy the hauntingly beautiful sounds of the charango, a traditional Andean instrument as the Oscar and Grammy-award winning artist performs.
Brad Mehldau Trio | 10 October
A prominent figure in the jazz world since the early 1990s, Grammy Award winning artist Brad Mehldau (piano) will be joined on stage by Felix Moseholm (bass) and Jorge Rossi (drums), for an unforgettable jazz experience.
Glenn Hughes Performs Deep Purple Classics Live | 19 October
Glenn Hughes is the former bassist and singer of legendary rock band Deep Purple. Known worldwide as ‘The Voice of Rock’ and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Hughes is set to perform the band’s masterpieces in celebration of the 50th anniversary of “Burn,” featuring songs from the MKIII and MKIV lineups.
Il Volo | 25 October
Italian operatic-pop trio, Il Volo, have captivated audiences worldwide and enjoyed collaborations with legendary artists like Andrea Bocelli, Quincy Jones and Barbra Streisand. Experience the extraordinary vocal harmonies of Il Volo in Dubai this October for a seamless blend of classical and operatic pop music.
Sophie Ellis Bextor | 26 October
Sophie Ellis-Bextor is a singer, songwriter, and pop icon best known for her breakout hit song “Murder on the Dance Floor” and her collaboration with DJ Spiller on “Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love)”. Recently, featured in the final scene of the acclaimed film “Saltburn,” “Murder on the Dance Floor” has been introduced to a new generation and guests can expect an electrifying night of fun.
The Kingdom Choir | 28 December
The famous London-based choir who performed at the UK’s Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, will be bringing their rousing gospel sounds to the Dubai Opera stage in December for a night to remember.
Dire Straits Legacy | 24 January
Legends of British rock, Dire Straits have sold over 120 million albums worldwide. The Dire Straits Legacy brings back their iconic music, performed by musicians who recorded and toured with the band, over 30 years ago. Drawing from six platinum albums, DSL’s live show features hits including “Money for Nothing”, “Sultans of Swing”, “Romeo and Juliet” and “Walk of Life” and many more.
Bombino | 22 February
Bombino, an acclaimed guitarist from Agadez, Niger is known for his North African desert blues sounds and has previously recorded with The Rolling Stones. He is emblematic of the next generation of Tuareg, a new voice of the Sahara and Sahel, fusing traditional Berber rhythms with the energy of rock and roll and songs about peace.
ARAB MUSIC
Ibrahim Maalouf | 2 November
Award-winning musician Ibrahim Maalouf has gone from winner of the world’s greatest international classical trumpet competitions to the most popular jazzman on the French music scene. With 18 albums in his catalogue, guests can expect to hear all the hits they know and love.
Guy Manoukian – A Tale of Two Shores | 3 November
Harmonising the rich traditions of Arab and Greek cultures, Virtuoso pianist and composer Guy Manoukian will be joined in concert by the finest Greek musicians for an evening of mesmerising music featuring Thanassis Vassilopoulos (Clarinet), Thanos Giouletzis (Violin) & Andreas Karantinis (Bouzouki).
Majid Jordan | 22 November
From working with Drake co-producing and writing the 2013 six times platinum smash hit “Hold On We’re Going Home,” and a number of other successful hits, Majid Jordan have continuously evolved their sound over the years to create a subgenre that is uniquely their own. Their highly anticipated return will delight fans of the R&B duo.
SPECIAL EVENTS
New Year’s Eve 2025 With Parov Stelar | 31 December
Ring in the New Year at Dubai Opera in style with an all night feast of food, music and more. Global superstar Parov Stelar is described as the pioneer of the “electro swing” genre, a unique musical blend that combines jazz, house, electro, hip-hop and pop.
Symphonic Rock Edition | 17 to 19 January
Over three nights, the music of three iconic artists will be brought to life on the Dubai Opera stage in a unique fusion of rock and symphonic music as performed by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra. Richard Sidwell will conduct both the “Zeppelin Symphonic” and “Nirvana Reimagined” evenings while Sergey Smbatyan conducts “Jackson Symphonic”.
InClassica International Music Festival | 6 to 25 April
The acclaimed InClassica International Music Festival, organised by SAMIT Event Group, marks
its return to Dubai on 6 April. A celebration of the very best that the world of classical music has to offer, the festival will feature a series of concerts with some of the most renowned soloists, orchestras and conductors of our time.
Blue Note Records – International Jazz Day | 30 April
On 30 April, Dubai Opera will celebrate International Jazz Day with a performance from the Blue Note All Star Big Band, a true pillar of the genre. Founded in 1939, Blue Note Records is universally revered as one of the most important record labels in music history. Honouring it’s 85th Anniversary Dubai Opera is delighted to present an evening celebrating the history of Blue Note Records & their artists.
Film Music Week | 15 to 18 May
An entire week will be dedicated to music from the movies, with the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra engaged to perform the scores. After the success of last year’s Star Wars, audiences can return to a galaxy far far away with The Empire Strikes Back. Another featured film will be the eloquent and romantic Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The remaining Film Music Week program will be announced in early 2025.
LOCAL PRESENTING PARTNERS
Dubai Opera continues to work with local presenting partners to ensure a broad and dynamic annual program of events for all audiences.
Dubai Opera Ball | 15 November
M Premiere and Mundus Gala will once again present the Dubai Opera Ball featuring leading tenor Placido Domingo, soprano Sonya Yoncheva, violinist Pavel Milyukov and jazz legend Igor Butman, all accompanied by Philharmonie Der Nationen, led by conductor Justus Frantz.
Steinway Piano Series |Oct 2024 – May 2025
In collaboration with House of Piano’s, Dubai Opera will feature six of the leading next generation pianists from around the world. Each will perform an evening repertoire from the great composers including Rachmaninov, Liszt, Brahms, Prokofiev, Debussy and Chopin.
Encore Presents | Nov 2024 – Jun 2025
A selection of classical concerts in the Dubai Opera Auditorium and Studio will be presented across the season featuring the National Youth Orchestra as well as guest soloists from around the world including winners from the acclaimed Paganini and Queen Elizabeth Violin Competitions.
Best Moments | Oct 2024 – Jun 2025
Dubai Opera is the place to get up close and personal with stars from the Arabic Music world. Best Moments continue to program many of the regions most well-loved artists through the 2024-25 season including Nassif Zeytoun, Boudchart, Abeer Nehme & Marwan Khoury and many more.
Emirati Musicians’ Association | Feb – Jun 2025
Composer Ihab Darwish will curate a selection of concerts to be presented at Dubia Opera featuring leading artists from the United Arab Emirates as well as influential regional artists from the Gulf, showcasing the musical traditions and influences that have shaped the sounds of the UAE.
SPONSORS AND COLLABORATIONS
Dubai Opera is proud to work with some of the region’s world-class companies who share its vision and brand ideals. Audi is a brand synonymous with excellence and innovation and is committed to enriching the cultural landscape of the UAE. Throughout the season Dubai Opera and Audi will present a series of co-branded shows featuring world-class performances.
The contributions of Dubai Opera’s Ballet and Dance sponsor Van Cleef & Arpels has enriched the artistic landscape while reinforcing the commitment to fostering culture and the arts in the region, since the partnership began in 2016.
Book your tickets now at dubaiopera.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.
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