The 20th edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival, themed “The Will for Evolution,” is set to dazzle audiences with a series of musical events at the Emirates Palace in March. Featuring world-renowned musicians and artists, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Key Takeaways
- Event: Abu Dhabi Festival 2023
- Theme: The Will for Evolution
- Location: Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
- Dates: March 1 – March 18, 2023
- Highlights: Performances by Juan Diego Flórez, María Pagés, Gregory Porter, Tan Dun, and more
Opening Night with Juan Diego Flórez
The festival will kick off on March 1 with a spectacular performance by celebrated Peruvian operatic tenor, Juan Diego Flórez. Known for his command of the high tenor range, Flórez will deliver a 120-minute concert featuring a program of arias and melodies from Peruvian and Latin American musical cultures. The performance will be accompanied by an orchestra, adding to the grandeur of the evening.
María Pagés’ Mesmerizing Flamenco
On March 10, the Emirates Palace will host the Middle East premiere of "De Scheherezade a Yo, Carmen." This mesmerizing performance by vanguard flamenco dancer and choreographer María Pagés transcends the legendary female character Carmen, the gypsy cigarette girl from Mérimée’s novella. Pagés’ innovative choreography and passionate dance will captivate the audience.
Gregory Porter’s UAE Debut
Two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz musician Gregory Porter will make his UAE debut on March 11. Porter will perform a set of his smooth original tracks from his albums "Liquid Spirit" and "Take Me to the Alley," along with captivating renditions of classic jazz standards. He will be joined by Chip Crawford on piano, Emanuel Harrold on drums, Tivon Pennicott on saxophone/horns, and Jahmal Nichols on bass.
From West to East: A Classical Odyssey
For the first time in the Middle East, the Emirates Palace will host "From West to East: A Classical Odyssey" on March 17. Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun will conduct the Orchestra of Teatro Comunale di Modena Pavarotti-Freni, joined by world-famous Chinese cellist Jian Wang. The performance will feature an iconic repertoire of classics by Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Mussorgsky, followed by the UAE premiere of Tan Dun’s original Pipa Concerto.
Buddha Passion by Tan Dun
On March 18, the festival will present the Middle East premiere of "Buddha Passion" by Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun. This 95-minute oratorio spans the boundaries of classical music and Eastern and Western traditions, illustrating six Buddha parables and stories. The performance captures the ancient narratives of the Buddha’s teachings and the timeless, universal concepts of love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.
The Abu Dhabi Festival 2023 at the Emirates Palace promises to be a cultural and musical extravaganza, offering a diverse range of performances that celebrate the evolution of music and art from around the world.