AlUla Performing Arts Festival
Feb 13, 2022
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Feb 22, 2022
The AlUla Performing Arts Festival was a unique international festival that celebrated all forms of performing arts. From acrobatic performances to traditional street buskers, AlJadidah was bustling with all kinds of activity for an incredible 10 days.
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A French musician showed off his one-man-band, looping sounds like clocks ticking and coins rattling on top of each other, then playing a melody on his trombone. Children of all ages gathered eagerly at the interactive painting performance, where a man dressed all in white sat as still as a statue as children took turns painting him. An Italian Dance Company, Sanpapié, had an immersive audio dance performance, whereas an American drummer brought his own flair to the streets. Four distinct areas of art were spread throughout AlJadidah. Starting from 5:00 pm until 11:00 pm, a mix of international and local artists were found in each area!
MAHAFEL ALJADIDAH
Found on the main, pedestrian-only street of AlJadidah, this area was dedicated to street theatre, where some of the world's most exciting street artists performed, from acrobats to dancers. This area was also the starting point for an itinerant dance show dedicated to AlJadidah and AlUla. Participants, led by the Italian Dance Company Sanpapié, enjoyed a unique and exciting experience.
THELLA
Found in a cosy alleyway near to Mahafel AlJadidah, this area was dedicated to the Saudi traditions of calligraphy, illustrations, and storytelling staged in a contemporary and fascinating way. The artists Shaker Kashfari (calligraphy), Deya Rambo (illustrator) and Alaa Yehya (sand animation) presented a different show each day based on the culture and aesthetics of the region of AlUla.
QAMRAH
This area was dedicated to Arabic music. Talented artists from all over the country performed on this stage every night, offering an impressive and exciting insight into how traditional music blends with contemporary genres.
TA'ALEEL
Found tucked behind Circolo, Saudi artist Saeed Gamhawi's installation, "My Mother's Rug," used projections of rugs on sand as a metaphor for the ultimate connection he has with his hometown and as a symbol of generosity and hospitality. Visitors were invited to sit in the sand bed and experience the artist's feelings through music and story.
MAHAFEL ALJADIDAH
Found on the main, pedestrian-only street of AlJadidah, this area was dedicated to street theatre, where some of the world's most exciting street artists performed, from acrobats to dancers. This area was also the starting point for an itinerant dance show dedicated to AlJadidah and AlUla. Participants, led by the Italian Dance Company Sanpapié, enjoyed a unique and exciting experience.
THELLA
Found in a cosy alleyway near to Mahafel AlJadidah, this area was dedicated to the Saudi traditions of calligraphy, illustrations, and storytelling staged in a contemporary and fascinating way. The artists Shaker Kashfari (calligraphy), Deya Rambo (illustrator) and Alaa Yehya (sand animation) presented a different show each day based on the culture and aesthetics of the region of AlUla.
QAMRAH
This area was dedicated to Arabic music. Talented artists from all over the country performed on this stage every night, offering an impressive and exciting insight into how traditional music blends with contemporary genres.
TA'ALEEL
Found tucked behind Circolo, Saudi artist Saeed Gamhawi's installation, "My Mother's Rug," used projections of rugs on sand as a metaphor for the ultimate connection he has with his hometown and as a symbol of generosity and hospitality. Visitors were invited to sit in the sand bed and experience the artist's feelings through music and story.