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Music to make a child smile

Benefit show ‘Salam Ya Quds’ brings together top Arabic musical talent in Abu Dhabi, to raise money for disadvantaged youngsters in Palestine. The musicians and organisers share their thoughts on the cause

THE ‘SALAM YA Quds’ charity concert will be held at Emirates Palace Auditorium next week, organised by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF).

The event will see four much-admired female Arabic artists – Macadi Nahhas, Aicha Redouane, Abir Nasaoui and Yolla Khalife – unite for a unique collaboration. Joining them will be well-known poet and TV personality Zahi Wehbe.

Taking place on Thursday, October 28, all funds raised will go to international charity ‘A Child, A Promise’, to fund its arts, educational and cultural programmes in Palestine.

‘Salam Ya Quds’ is an all-seated concert with tickets available in two categories: diamond at Dhs400 and pearl at Dhs200. Buy your tickets now at www.timeouttickets.com or from the Emirates Palace box office. For more information, visit www.admaf.org or www.achild-apromise.org.

Here’s what those involved had to say about ‘Salam Ya Quds’

Tania Sfeir, founder of A Child, A Promise (ACAP):

“ACAP is committed to building a firm foundation for the children of Palestine, and helps them to keep their dignity and pride strong. The ground upon which they walk has been weakened by years of conflict. ACAP aims to give as many children as possible the opportunities that others may take for granted.”

Mrs. Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, ADMAF founder:

“Children play fair, it is the world that doesn’t. Through this evening, we aim to raise awareness around the hardship faced by Palestinian children. ‘Salam Ya Quds’ is an example of how artists from different styles and backgrounds can unite for a single cause. It will allow us all to free the child within and reach out through the music to make the world a better place.”

Aicha Redouane, Arabic maqam singer:

“My wish is to convey the noble values of peace and excellence, harmony and tolerance, brotherhood and solidarity between all human beings. This is why I am participating in ‘Salam Ya Quds’. All children in this world deserve unconditional love and absolute respect.”

Macadi Nahas, Middle Eastern heritage singer:

“Events such as ‘Salam Ya Quds’ helps to remind people about the situation in Palestine, and especially that children have the right to live a decent and happy life. I believe children symbolise everything beautiful in this world, and I am pleased to see funds being raised for their education and well-being.”

Yolla Khalife, vocalist of the Al Mayadine Ensemble:

“My heart dances with joy and love at the sight of a child. So my involvement is natural when it comes to homeless children who have lost their basic right to live, laugh and play. For all Palestinian children, I come with joy and humility to this event.”

Abir Nasraoui, Arabian singer

“‘Salam Ya Quds’ will encourage dialogue about the Palestinian cause and allow us to discover the other faces of the suffering of this nation. The children of Palestine need support to alight their spirits.”

Zahi Wehbe, poet and Palestinian supporter:

“Just listen to the laughter of the children and you can already hear the joy, the love and the freedom of Palestine.”

Feline fundraiser

THE KITTEN BALL is scheduled for Friday, October 29, with funds raised going to Feline Friends Dubai.

The gala ball, held at the Dusit Thani Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road from 7pm till late, will include a three-course dinner, unlimited beverages, a DJ and entertainment for Dhs450 per person.

All proceeds will go to helping cats in need of love and a home in Dubai. For more information, see the Feline Friends Facebook page or go to www.felinefriendsdubai.com.

To book tickets, call 050 5148597 or e-mail ffdubaievents@gmail.com.

Taste of Thailand

THE ACCLAIMED CHEF Pitaya from Bangkok will give a live cooking demonstration at the Mango Tree Bistro on Wednesday, October 20.

The event, from 7pm to 9pm in Mirdif City Centre, will feature Channel 4’s DJ Moe in a live broadcast, and there will be a chance to win signed cookbooks and dining vouchers.

Call 04 2843635 or e-mail mangotreebistro.mcc@cplmg.com for enquiries.

Musical Diwali

Celebrate Diwali with your friends and family whilst dancing the night away to popular Bollywood tunes.

Bring in the festival of lights this year with the Diwali Dance Dhamaka, a special event featuring live dhol players, bhangra dancers and tracks spun by DJs Zubair and Abhijeet.

Dinner and beverages will also be served at the ball which will take place from 10pm onwards at the Al Yassat Ballroom, Murooj Rotana Hotel, Shaikh Zayed Road on Thursday, November 4.