One of Bahrain’s biggest cultural events will make its anticipated return in March with a line-up featuring a wide array of musical and theatrical performances, alongside art exhibitions.
The 20th edition of the Spring of Culture Festival, organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca), is set to run from March to May.
The three-month-long series of events will feature collaborations with Albareh Art Space, Al Riwaq Art Space, Art Concept Gallery, Folk Art Space, La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art and Souq Al Baraha.
The French, German, Palestinian, Italian, Indian and Chinese Embassies will also participate with a variety of linked lectures and cultural events.
Baca president Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa believes the annual spectacular stands out as one of the most ‘prominent highlights’ of the kingdom’s entertainment calendar.
“The festival reflects the authentic components of Bahraini society and the civilisational heritage that distinguishes our region, while also embodying the values of openness to cultures and civilisations from around the world,” said Shaikh Khalifa.
“It presents a rich cultural blend reflected in the diversity of its events, including lectures, musical evenings, theatrical performances and more, offering audiences an engaging and dynamic experience.
“The festival also features prominent cultural, intellectual and artistic figures from sisterly and friendly countries, further enhancing its international character.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to organising and delivering this year’s edition.
“I would also like to underscore the importance of public and private sector partnerships in presenting a distinguished image of the kingdom at regional and international levels.”
The festival will present a diverse range of cultural activities held across different areas of the kingdom.
It will kick-off on the second day of Eid Al Fitr, predicted to be around March 18 or 19, with Alarm Bell, a family-friendly comedy theatrical play that follows a household swept up by the appeal of quick fame and easy money.
On March 20 and 21, internationally-renowned Chilean street performer Karcocha, who boasts more than three million followers on social media, will create spontaneous, joyful moments as he turns spectators into active participants.
The world-famous Canadian spectacle Cirque Du Soleil – Corteo will make its debut in the kingdom on March 22 at Exhibition World Bahrain.
The show combines ‘stunning acrobatics, theatrical storytelling and beautiful music’ to create a magical procession that takes the audience on a journey of life, memory and wonders.
American singer and songwriter Josh Groban, famous for signature hits such as You Raise Me Up, will take the stage at the Bahrain National Theatre on March 25.
Argentinean performer Victor Rubilar, winner of 26 international awards and featured 10 times in the Guinness Book of Records, will blend football juggling with dance and comedy.
For those looking for a more traditional performance, Dar Qalali will take centre stage on March 28 at Dar Al Muharraq, with a Fijiri performance featuring authentic maritime songs and rhythm that form a powerful musical expression that reflects the spirit of the sea.
On March 31, German band 4Tunes will hold a vibrant concert celebrating iconic German songs loved across generations in an engaging musical journey that reflects the country’s cultural identity.
One of the highlights of the festival will be on April 3 when André Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra returns for the fourth consecutive year by popular demand. The King of Waltz will light up Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre with a night once again filled with ‘elegance, emotion and unforgettable moments’.
Bahrain Philharmonic Orchestra led by maestro Dr Mubarak Najem, will take the audience on another musical journey, this time through some of the most memorable soundtracks from Hollywood, Bollywood and Arabic film and TV soundtracks, at the Bahrain National Theatre on April 9.
Those who prefer jazz can enjoy Portrait of Ennio Morricone, a unique concert by saxophonist Patrizio Destriere honouring one of the most influential composers of the 20th century.
It will be held at the Cultural Hall on April 19.
For families and children, a lively adaptation of the beloved children’s classic The Cat in the Hat by Dr Seuss awaits at the Cultural Hall. The show will be held from May 15 to 18.
The Spring of Culture Festival will conclude with an Underwater Bubble Show, an award-winning production that invites audiences into a vibrant underwater fairytale of wonder and laughter, on May 28 and 29 at the Cultural Hall.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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