RIYADH: In only one week, the King Fahd Cultural Center in Riyadh will host the much-awaited premiere of “Zarqa Al-Yamama,” which the organizers claim is the first great Saudi opera in Arabic.
As most operas are presented in European languages, it is uncommon for the text to be sung in Arabic. As a result, given the high artistic value of opera and the interest of art enthusiasts and audiences worldwide in the form, the Kingdom’s Theater and Performing Arts Commission said the event, which is held under the patronage of Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, marks a turning point in an increasingly vibrant Saudi cultural scene.
“Zarqa Al-Yamama” music is drawn from well-known sung poems, operatic heritage, and Saudi musical elements. The narrative narrates the tale of the mythical Zarqa Al-Yamama, who lived in the pre-Islamic Al-Yamama region of Najd and became embroiled in a tragic conflict between two tribes.
According to the creators, the opera is a heartfelt tragedy with incredible suspense brought to life in a cutting-edge theatrical production with sweeping orchestral movements and captivating choral performances that provide an unforgettable cultural experience.
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