Zarqa'a al-Yamama Opera

Zarqa'a al-Yamama Opera is a production organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission under the Ministry of Culture. It is the first opera in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the largest Arabic-language opera in the world, featuring performances by both local and international talents.

The announcement of Zarqa'a al-Yamama Opera production was preceded by a celebration of the opera's production process at Goldsmiths' Hall in London, the British capital, on February 15, 2024. The event was attended by enthusiasts and participants in the opera's production, including both Saudi and international creatives.

The ceremony included a presentation of the details of the opera's production, along with a recounting of the historical events related to the story of Zarqa'a al-Yamama. Additionally, there was a musical performance by Ivan Vuksović, the CEO of the Arabic Opera Company, which includes a global team of opera singers and Saudi artists. The event also featured a performance by the world-renowned soprano Sarah Connolly, who played the role of Zarqa'a al-Yamama.

Zarqa'a al-Yamama Opera was performed at the King Fahd Cultural Center in the capital, Riyadh, and ran from April 25 to May 4, 2024.

The story of Zarqa'a al-Yamama Opera revolves around Zarqa'a al-Yamama, a wise woman from the ancient tribe of Jadis, one of the extinct tribes of the Arabian Peninsula. She lived in Yamama region in Najd and was known for her striking blue eyes, which could see things from a great distance. She had such exceptional eyesight that the phrase 'sharper than Zarqa'a al-Yamama' became a popular saying. She would warn her people about the tribe of Tasm, who held power and authority. A conflict eventually arose between the two tribes, leading the story to a tragic end.

The libretto for Zarqa'a al-Yamama was written by Saudi poet, writer, and theater critic Saleh Zamanan. The music for the opera was composed by renowned composer Lee Bradshaw, who drew inspiration from traditional Arabic music while incorporating elements of classical opera styles, such as those of Mozart, Verdi, and Puccini.

The world-renowned soprano Sarah Connolly performed the role of Zarqa'a al-Yamama, accompanied by a choir of talented singers. The main cast included nine Saudi talents, among them Rimaz al-Aqbi, Sawsan al-Bahiti, and Khairan al-Zahrani. The production also featured international stars such as Clive Bayley, Emilia Warzon, Parade Cataldo, Serena Farnocchi, and George von Bergen.

The Dresden Sinfoniker Orchestra performed the musical compositions for the opera, accompanied by the Czech Philharmonic Choir. Renowned costume designer Giovanna Buzzi, along with her team, crafted costumes that visually depicted the pre-Islamic era. The production was directed by theatrical director Daniele Finzi Pasca, who also oversaw the stage effects, aiming to create scenes that faithfully reflect the reality of the story.

The main partner for this production was King Fahd Cultural Center, which hosted the event. Other key partners included Roshn, Banque Saudi Fransi, Saudi Signs, Genesis, and supporting partners such as Nova, Spirit of Saudi, and hospitality partners Bateel and Ramada by Wyndham.

Zarqa'a al-Yamama Opera aims to enhance the cultural movement within the Kingdom, stimulate national talent, and contribute to the contemporary reinterpretation of significant stories from the Arabian Peninsula. The opera represents a valuable addition to the global cultural heritage, helping to reach new audiences and promote international cultural exchange, aligning with the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 National Strategy.