Turkish president says the move is also aimed at increasing the amount of humanitarian aid entering Gaza
mena6 hours ago
The Middle East's longest-running open mic night, Rooftop Rhythms, kicks off its ninth season this Friday, September 25 at The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD). Co-presented with the official support of US Embassy Abu Dhabi, the virtual rendition of the monthly open mic series will take via The Arts Center at NYUAD's Facebook page.
Having moved to a virtual format in March in response to Covid-19, Rooftop Rhythms saw incredible engagement from audiences worldwide, reaching over 140,000 views over the three online performances.
The Arts Center recently launched its sixth season under the theme A Bridge and following the success of recent virtual performances, Rooftop Rhythms' ninth season will embrace the dynamics of the online space by bridging global artists and audiences through online platforms.
"Bringing Rooftop Rhythms online adds to the narrative that Abu Dhabi will continue to thrive culturally and artistically even in the midst of the global pandemic. Residents here feel safe as Abu Dhabi is taking the lead internationally in prioritizing its residents' health and safety. NYU Abu Dhabi and The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi took the proactive approach to cancel on-campus events and close to visitors [for the fall]," said poet and founder of Rooftop Rhythms Dorian Paul Rogers.
"Through these entities' integral involvement and input, we all mutually agreed to stay responsible by postponing all in-person events. We made this decision in early March 2020 and found extreme success as a virtual event," he added.
Oman-based teacher, poet, actor, and comedian Hakeem Kemet, a former UAE resident who remains a regular performer said: "I love the reach Rooftop Rhythms gets as a virtual show! With the online events, Rooftop is able to unite artists and audience members across the world instantly. Performers and audience members new and old are able to plug into the community, even though they may not be in the UAE at the time. And the comments and Facebook likes and reactions help to replace some of that lost sense of atmosphere as with the in-person events. It's really helped me stay connected to this group and vibe that I love, giving me something to look forward to amidst all of this current COVID-19 madness."
From its establishment in 2012, Rooftop Rhythms has sought to create a community where artists can freely express themselves while allowing for intellectual exchange and shared experiences.
NYU Abu Dhabi student, singer, musician, and songwriter Suzan Sadek, scheduled to perform on September 25, said: "I was scared this was lost in the virtual world. After the first event, however, I realised that although I couldn't see the instant support, it was all there through the interactions, the likes, the comments, and the direct messages.
"The virtual show resulted in a wider audience and provided accessibility to a larger range of viewers. My family and friends from all over the world could finally watch my performances, if not live then a rewatch, and still be able to interact and support me."
Dubai-based poet, writer, photographer, make-up artist Danabelle Gutierrez added: "The impact of Rooftop Rhythms is unparalleled as it has brought together so many different artists or different styles together to form the spoken word arts scene. The once-a-month poetry events in various parts of the city do keep me grounded and rooted as being part of the community whether I am performing or just attending. Moving virtual has helped push that sense of community despite the current circumstances."
Turkish president says the move is also aimed at increasing the amount of humanitarian aid entering Gaza
mena6 hours ago
In another case at the same airport, officials apprehended five foreign nationals who tried to smuggle gold worth Rs.24.4 million
asia6 hours ago
More than 2,000 pro-Palestinian protesters arrested in the past two weeks across the US
americas7 hours ago
Fireballs and Smash tied for the lead in the team event at the $25 million 54 hole tournament
sports7 hours ago
The hosts strengthened their chances of securing a slot in the semifinals with a 70-run victory in Abu Dhabi
sports8 hours ago
The group has a presence in five countries and eyes further geographic expansion, especially in India
markets8 hours ago
The severity of the situation gradually eased from Thursday evening, when it receded in the north and east of the country
weather8 hours ago
Cyclone Hidaya is predicted to cause torrential rain, strong winds and powerful and dangerous waves in the flood-ravaged country
africa8 hours ago