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dubai - In just a span of decades, Dubai is a star on the world map as a high achieving destination. A place known for the world's tallest buildings, world-class shopping malls and seven-star hotels.
The performing arts is one area where the country has been lagging behind, but now, that is a thing of the past.
Khaleej Times got a sneak peak of the much-anticipated landmark, Dubai Opera, officially opening on Wednesday. Rest assured, you will not need to go to Europe or the US for the best concerts anymore.
Like everything else in Dubai, the 2,000-capacity venue blends modernity with tradition. The building's design is inspired by Dubai's long maritime history, with its dhow shape and other architectural elements referring to the country's seafaring traditions.
Once you enter, you are mesmerised by the glass building, situated right at the foot of the Burj Khalifa. Inside, the breathtaking venue is perfectly polished and ready to host international shows. The leather seating and dark wood hues will immediately put you in the mood for a performance, which can vary from classical music, flamenco, Broadway musicals, to even sporting events and art exhibitions.
The venue isn't officially open yet, but over 70 performances have already been announced for the first four months, with the opening show by Spanish tenor Placido Domingo selling out in less than three hours after it was announced in April.
According to Dubai Opera's chief executive Jasper Hope, a number of shows are already sold out, and everything else on the schedule is selling well.
But the question remains: is it just a reaction to the launch hype that will soon fade away?
IN NUMBERS 5,798sq m: Area of Dubai Opera About 200: Performances per year Over 70: Performances in first four months of opening Dh200: Lowest priced ticket 200: Staff working at Dubai Opera 500kg: Weight of the main chandelier 2,900: LEDs in the main chandelier 600: Total lighting fixtures at the venue |
CURTAIN UP! HIGHLIGHTS TO AWAIT: The Pearl Fishers: September 1, 3 The Barber of Seville: September 2, 4 Ballets: Coppelia and Giselle: September 15-17 Broadway shows" Les Miserables (November 10-24) and West Side Story (February 14-18, 2017) Mozart Gala: September 23 José Carreras Final World Tour: October 4, 8 Anoushka Shankar: October 15 The Nutcracker on Ice: December 6-10 Note: Tickets are online only. For more info, visit www.dubaiopera.com/showlist/ |
DRESS CIRCLE To go to the Dubai Opera, you need to be dressed for a night out, while treating it as a special place. "There is no certain dress code, just dress to look good and respect the occasion and attendees," said Hope. Avoid hats and big hair that obstruct people's views. |
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