ELYANNA CONFIRMED FOR FRIDAY AFTER-RACE CONCERT AT THE ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX
Palestinian-Chilean breakout star Elyanna, 23 has been confirmed to perform on Friday, December 5 as part of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix After-Race Concerts line-up, joining Post Malone for an unforgettable night of music and cultural fusion in the UAE capital.
'Beautiful thing' hitmaker Benson Boone kicks off Yasalam presented by e& entertainment on Thursday, December 4. Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Elyanna and multi-platinum superstar Post Malone take the stage on Friday, December 5, following the day's practice sessions at Yas Marina Circuit. Heavy rock giants Metallica will deliver their thunderous performance after Saturday's qualification rounds on December 6. Pop megastar Katy Perry wraps the spectacular weekend in style on Sunday, December 7, following the thrilling F1 season finale.
Elyanna, 23, returns to the UAE capital just months after she dazzled fans as part of Coldplay's Music of the Spheres World Tour at Zayed Sports City Stadium in January which attracted over 200,000 fans across four sold-out shows.
Her distinctive style merges Arabic music with Latin Rhythms, creating an experimental Arab-pop sound that has captured a global audience.
'We're thrilled to welcome Elyanna as part of a world-class Yasalam line up,' said David Powell, Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer at Ethara. 'Elyanna is unique and gifted artist, as she showed when she performed alongside Coldplay at Zayed Sports City in January.
'Yasalam continues to showcase a diverse programme of thrilling entertainment that reflects our welcoming spirit. We put on a bigger spectacle every year and ticket holders will have an unforgettable time with us.'
Born in Nazareth, Elyanna's musical talents were nurtured by her family, with early influences including iconic figures like Julio Iglesias and Sabah Fakhry. Elyanna's career took a significant turn when she was discovered at age 15 by Grammy-winner Nasri Atweh.
Her major achievements include being the first artist to perform in Arabic at Coachella, releasing the hit EP 'Elyanna' with over 100 million streams, and the release of her debut album 'Woledto' under Universal Arabic music.
Her addition to the 2025 After-Race Concerts lineup brings a compelling cultural dimension to the weekend's entertainment. Fans can expect electrifying performances of her hits during what promises to be a highlight of the 17th Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, taking place December 4-7, 2025.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders have exclusive access to the After-Race Concerts with soaring demand fans should secure their tickets and upgrades promptly through abudhabigp.com. Existing ticket holders can enhance their experience by purchasing a Golden Circle upgrade, which provides priority access near the stage.
For Friday events, the Garden on Yas General Access one-day pass offers excellent viewing from the outdoor terrace adjacent to the W Hotel, along with fan zone access and general admission to Friday's concerts. An array of luxurious hospitality packages is also available on the official website.
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Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah builds cultural bridges between Africa and the Arab world
Amid a time when Arabic poetry faces marginalisation in parts of Africa, Sharjah's forward-thinking initiatives have restored Arabic literature to its rightful place—as a vessel of identity, a tool for dialogue, and a platform for human expression. Coordinators praised the vision behind the Arabic Poetry Forums in Africa—an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah—which has marked the beginning of a new cultural era across the continent. These forums have given hundreds of poets opportunities for visibility, documentation, and publication through structured programmes led by Sharjah's Department of Culture in collaboration with local cultural bodies. Coordinators in nine African nations—Mali, Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, Benin, and Côte d'Ivoire—shared updates on preparations for the fourth edition of the poetry forums, set to begin this month. Plans are underway for expanded poet participation and accompanying cultural events. Reviving the Arabic language through poetry Dr Abdelkader Idriss Mega, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Mali, described Sharjah's initiative as a pioneering model that reflects the wide-reaching cultural vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He noted that the initiative is more than just a poetry festival—it is a genuine platform for reviving the Arabic language in historically Arabic-speaking communities. Dr Mega highlighted the forums' role in elevating poetry as a cultural force in Mali, a country where African depth intersects with Arab-Islamic heritage. 'Sharjah's support represents a living example of Afro-Arab cultural integration, and a genuine embodiment of His Highness's vision for building literary bridges across the region,' he said. 'It has granted African poets a worthy platform, embraced their talents, and nurtured creativity in a respectful, professional atmosphere.' He emphasised the clear impact: a vibrant poetry movement, an interactive cultural space blending authenticity and openness, and a rejuvenated local cultural scene that had long suffered from stagnation. Looking ahead to Mali's fourth poetry forum Dr Mega stated that Mali's Arabic Poetry Forum continues to grow in terms of organisation, content, and participation. The number of poets has doubled this year, drawing a rich mix of emerging and established voices from across the country. The fourth edition will welcome between 15 and 20 poets from Bamako and other regions. What sets this edition apart is the broader participation and more diverse poetic styles, alongside growing public interest. The forum has drawn the attention of prominent figures, intellectuals, academics, university students, and media professionals, giving it greater cultural and institutional weight. The accompanying programme includes poetry readings, literary discussions, and workshops on Arabic poetic techniques, in addition to interactive sessions between poets and the public—fostering cultural exchange and deepening aesthetic appreciation for poetry. Cultural renewal through Sharjah's literary vision Dr Ahmed Abou El Fath Othman, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Chad, described Sharjah's support for Arabic poetry in Africa as a shining example of Arab cultural integration. He praised the leadership of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for reinforcing the Arabic language and culture across both Arabic-speaking regions and beyond. He noted that the poetry forums, organised by the Department of Culture in Sharjah, have contributed to shaping a renewed cultural landscape by creating spaces for creative exchange and restoring poetry's role as a tool of expression, awareness, and identity-building. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Chad, according to Dr Abou El Fath, marks a significant milestone. While 32 poets participated last year, this year's forum is expected to feature over 40 poets, selected from more than 200 submissions. The selection criteria focus on high-calibre classical Arabic poetry. This year's edition is noteworthy for bringing together poets from various regions of Chad on a single platform to share their work with an engaged and appreciative audience. The forum has also opened doors for emerging voices, with many young and aspiring poets seizing this opportunity to prove their talent. Dr Abou El Fath highlighted that some of these poets, after participating in the Chad forum, went on to take part in international poetry gatherings—raising their country's profile on broader cultural stages. He affirmed that none of this would have been possible without Sharjah's generous and strategic support for Arabic culture in Africa. 'We extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Sharjah, a beacon of knowledge and creativity, for continually championing Arab literary excellence and broadening its horizons,' he said. A deep encouragement for African Arabic poetry Dr Kaba Imran, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Guinea, expressed how African Arabic poetry is now "breathing freely" again, receiving recognition and honour from an Arab nation—specifically from His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. 'This is a profound source of encouragement for a form of poetry that had long been absent from the African cultural scene,' he said. He noted that the fourth edition of the forum will welcome many new poets. Previously, participation was limited to poets from the capital region, but now, the event draws poets from across all regions of Guinea and even from outside the country. Thanks to the forum, many poets have gained new confidence in their talent and literary voice—especially first-time participants. Dr Imran confirmed that these gatherings have inspired poets with ambitious new horizons and a growing cultural awareness with meaningful impact. Celebrating poetic beauty in Niger Dr Amadou Ali Ibrahim, cultural coordinator in Niger, hailed Sharjah as a cultural capital that continues to celebrate the enduring power of poetry, thanks to the unwavering support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He said the Arabic poetry forums in Africa have been a resounding literary success from the start, leaving a clear cultural imprint across the continent and growing stronger with each edition. Dr Ibrahim expressed hope that this year's forum in Niger will spotlight new poetic talents and attract a larger audience, particularly among Arabic language students in the country. As in previous years, the event will feature two poetry sessions enriched by critical commentary—offering aesthetic insights into the poems—and a literary lecture exploring the Arabic language and its social dimensions within Niger. He is optimistic that this edition will see a stronger poetic presence, not only in the number of poets attending from across the country but also in the strength and beauty of the Arabic poems being shared. 'The forum has become a stage for Niger's promising poetic voices to shine and grow,' he said. Enrichment and empowerment in Nigeria Dr Omar Adam, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Nigeria, highlighted the profound impact of Sharjah's support—under the guidance of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah—on enriching the cultural scene across Africa. Through the forums, a deeper appreciation for the Arabic language and its literary traditions has taken root in multiple African nations. He noted that this support has enabled poets to refine their craft, moving beyond traditional forms to embrace modern poetic techniques aligned with global literary currents. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Nigeria marks a significant cultural moment, building on the success of previous editions and further promoting Arabic poetry and cross-cultural dialogue. Thanks to financial and institutional backing from Sharjah's Department of Culture, several Nigerian poets have published Arabic poetry collections—many for the first time—showcasing a flourishing literary presence in the country. 'This year, we've witnessed an unprecedented number of applications, surpassing those of all previous editions combined,' said Dr Adam. 'It's a clear sign of how deeply these forums have energised the creative spirit and helped develop local poetic talent.' He added that the forum, supported by Sharjah, has spotlighted poetic voices from all regions of Nigeria. 'What began as a symbolic initiative has now become a dynamic platform for Nigerian poets, including those who are not native Arabic speakers, to share their work and connect with the wider Arab literary world. This effort not only preserves heritage but also drives forward a new wave of poetic creativity rooted in rich literary traditions.' Beyond boundaries: Côte d'Ivoire celebrates Arabic verse Dr Bamba Issiaka, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Côte d'Ivoire, said Sharjah's cultural initiative transcends borders and languages, empowering genuine creativity through sustained support, openness to new voices, and a dynamic blend of literary creation and critique. He affirmed that the forums serve as a model for cultural collaboration, showing that poetry still holds the power to build bridges and reshape collective awareness. 'The Arabic Poetry Forum has become a major annual cultural event in Côte d'Ivoire, eagerly anticipated by the public,' he said, citing strong participation from university students and the emergence of talented young poets. According to Dr Issiaka, Sharjah's support does more than offer financial assistance—it maps out a long-term vision for Arabic poetry in Africa. The fourth edition of the forum, he noted, will mark a qualitative leap in the country's cultural scene, with new voices and cities taking part, reflecting the forum's continued growth and expanding reach. A cultural continuum in South Sudan Dr Mohammed Maj Riak, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in South Sudan, described Sharjah's backing of Arabic poetry in Africa as part of a broader cultural vision that embraces creativity in all its forms. This support, he said, helps reaffirm the value of poetry as a means of expressing identity and collective memory. He noted that the forums have added significant value to South Sudan's cultural landscape. 'For this year's edition, we've widened participation to include poets from different generations and schools of thought, with a discerning and appreciative audience engaging closely with the sessions,' said Dr Riak. The accompanying events will include literary workshops, critical forums, and public discussions to enhance interaction between poets and audiences. He stressed that the initiative has played a pivotal role in bringing attention to lesser-known voices and given them opportunities to connect with leading figures from the Arab literary world—broadening their cultural horizons and artistic growth. Tangible momentum in Senegal Dr Mohamed El Hadi Sall, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Senegal, described Sharjah's patronage of Arabic poetry in Africa as a pioneering initiative rooted in a genuine belief in the power of words and their role in bridging cultures. He noted that the support went beyond financial assistance—it was a powerful moral boost that helped elevate local cultural identity and revive interest in Arabic poetry. 'The forums supported by Sharjah created real cultural momentum,' Dr Sall said. 'They opened new spaces for expression and dialogue, allowing a broader audience to engage with poets and their work.' He added that the fourth edition brings greater energy and diversity, with poets from various schools and experiences, along with a rich cultural programme including poetry readings, critical discussions, and parallel artistic performances. 'This year's audience is more engaged and informed than ever, which reflects a growing connection between the public and poetic expression. The event has also drawn strong attention from the cultural community, media, and social networks—clear proof that the forum has become a major annual cultural highlight.' Sustained support in Benin Dr Ibrahim Ogboun, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Benin, said that no discussion of Arabic poetry in Africa today would be complete without acknowledging the vital role of Sharjah. Through its thoughtful cultural initiatives, the emirate has consistently supported the written word and strengthened its presence in the public sphere. He explained that Sharjah's support has evolved into a comprehensive cultural project, offering renewed energy to literary platforms across the continent. 'The poetry forums held under Sharjah's patronage are not seasonal events,' Dr Ogboun stressed. 'They have become a genuine driver of the poetic scene, offering space for experimentation, dialogue, and public engagement.' Speaking about the fourth edition, he added: 'With strong attendance and a wide variety of participants, the forum in Benin is moving confidently toward establishing itself as a leading cultural event in the country. This year's edition will stand out in both format and content, with a larger number of poets and a dynamic series of events including poetry evenings, critical sessions, and open dialogues between creators and a poetry-hungry audience.' Sharjah's initiative, he said, has opened new doors for local poets and introduced fresh voices to the broader Arab poetic tradition. 'The forum has become a true platform for discovering talent and exchanging experiences. Many poets have spoken about how this opportunity transformed their work—whether through new publishing avenues or invitations to take part in Arab literary festivals.'
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Rhinestones, cowboy boots: How to dress perfectly for a concert
In the last year, my most memorable evenings have been spent wearing — in no particular order — an exact replica of Taylor Swift's Lover rhinestone bodysuit (with matching boots), a red tie and combat jeans in homage to Green Day singer Billie Joe Armstrong, a tartan corset à la Gwen Stefani in her Galliano era, and a lilac top scattered with crystals to symbolise Coldplay's A Sky Full of Stars, all while listening to my favourite artistes play live. Basic band T-shirt for a concert I've spent all day in a Ticketmaster queue for? No siree. Whether at Swift's tour in London, Coldplay and Stefani in Abu Dhabi, or Green Day in Dubai, delving into the canon of an artiste and devising an outfit in homage elevates my concert-going experience exponentially, immersing me in the fandom through fashion. Judging by the sea of sequins at Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour — the proceeds of which recently enabled her to buy back the rights to the master recordings of her first six albums for a nine-figure sum — I'm not alone. This weekend, Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter Tour rolls into Europe for nine shows in London and Paris, the tour's only non-US dates and the closest opportunity for UAE-based members of the Beyhive to see the 40-song extravaganza, her first since 2023's Renaissance. Paying homage to Black pioneers of country music, the three-hour show features up to nine custom costumes designed by the likes of Roberto Cavalli, Mugler, Burberry, Loewe, Dolce & Gabbana, and Moschino. Chaps! Fringe! Star Spangled Banners! Gold leather! Denim on denim on denim! And all the crystals that Swarovski can wrangle. As concert-goers, there are a wealth of western-inspired styles to draw from. Most obviously, a cowboy hat. The baller move is Miu Miu's contemporary drill style (Dh2,380) or Vuitton's LV Vers with gold hardware (Dh4,300). At the other end of the corporeal scale, cowboy boots. There are plenty out there; I'd advise a soft suede or worn-in leather (three hours of dancing is no mean feat for the feet) and a low heel, leave the sky-high fringed Louboutins for Bey. Golden Goose's Wish Star line of boots fall on the fashion side of fancy dress, which is what we're aiming for. Assuming that Bey's backless chaps are a tribute act too far, your next best choice for the bottom half of your outfit is a pair of classic Levi's 501s. Beyoncé's been the face of the denim firm's 'Live In' collection since September 2024, and paid the ultimate tribute to a brand that supported her in the early days of Destiny's Child by recording a track called Levii's Jeans with Post Malone for the Cowboy Carter album. Another benefit of wearing jeans is, prosaically, pockets. Phone, hotel room key, pac-a-mac, stash them in a pocket and leave your hands free for the Single Ladies moves. Save the fashion statement for your top half: leather, fringing, rhinestones, bandana prints, it's all on the table. The Attico has a rhinestone-detailed white vest that recalls Bey's iconic Crazy in Love look (currently reduced to Dh1,320 at Ounass), or channel the singer's Y2K bandana scarf top with a 2025 version by Marant Etoile (Dh865). With 35 wins, Beyoncé is the most decorated artiste in all of Grammy Awards history. Given the endless supply of western lore fans have to draw from, I wouldn't be surprised if Cowboy Carter tour-goers take home the gong for most decorated audience.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Zawya
So Drama! Entertainment Launches New Entertainment App
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 6 June 2025 - So Drama! Entertainment in Singapore is excited to announce the new entertainment and lifestyle app, Kakee. Officially launched on 6 June, Kakee is a rebrand of CAMOKAKIS. This rebrand marks a significant transformation for the app, introducing a more engaging and innovative digital experience for users. Rewards and Entertainment at Your Fingertips Kakee is a proudly made-in-Singapore entertainment and lifestyle app with a difference: it rewards users for simply enjoying content on the app; the more they engage, the more they earn. A homophone of the word kaki – meaning "close friend" in local slang, and part of the phrase kaki lang, meaning "one of us" in Hokkien, Kakee is positioned as "Your Rewards & Entertainment Buddy'. It is designed to be the perfect companion, in lifestyle and entertainment – whether it be listening to music, watching a video, or playing a game – while also actively rewarding users with prizes, entry into special events and contests. Kakee brings together four core features that lets users engage, be entertained, and earn: Listen (refer to Appendix A) – Listen to DJs and 24/7 music streams from POWER 98 and 88.3JIA. Watch (refer to Appendix B and C) – Watch Kakee Originals, a collection of proudly made-in-Singapore serialised video content spanning lifestyle, travel, current affairs, mental wellness, and micro-dramas. The platform also offers Kakee On The Move — social-first short-form video content. Play – Play thrilling mobile games that keep the fingers moving and the brain juicing. Lobangs – The rewards hub on Kakee where users can win exciting prizes and take part in events and contests. Kakee also introduces Koins — a gamified rewards system that adds a fun and rewarding layer to everyday interactions. Every activity on the app, whether listening, watching or playing, helps users earn Koins that can be redeemed for exciting rewards. A Fully Digital Experience In line with broader digitalisation trends, Kakee, alongside radio stations POWER 98 and 88.3JIA, will fully embrace a digital-first future. Starting 6 June, Kakee will launch new 24/7 music streams from both stations, giving listeners a fresh, flexible way to enjoy their favourite tunes anytime, anywhere. FM broadcasts and their simulcasts on the Kakee app will remain available until October 2025, after which both will cease. Beyond that, the app's always-on music streams will continue, ensuring uninterrupted access to music in a mobile-first format. This shift aligns with the growing need for on-demand, mobile-first content, allowing users to enjoy their favourite music, games, and entertainment at their convenience. Kakee's interactivity, flexibility, and rewards-based ecosystem are tailored for modern audiences seeking a more connected experience. With these new features and an integrated rewards system, Kakee is poised to redefine entertainment, offering an engaging experience that turns everyday moments into rewards. As the app evolves, it remains a trusted companion, continuously innovating to stay meaningfully connected with its audience. Kakee App Launch and Launch Event CAMOKAKIS has officially refreshed to Kakee on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store on 6 June 2025. To mark the occasion, a public launch event will be held from 26 to 29 June, 11am to 10pm daily at Plaza Singapura. Free and open to all, the event will feature appearances by DJs from POWER 98 and 88.3JIA, live performances by the Music & Drama Company, as well as an immersive, on-ground experience of Kakee's four features – Listen, Watch, Play, and Lobangs – brought to life in a physical space. Adding to the excitement, the Kakee Konvoy – a vibrant truck with a mobile stage – will be stationed on-site, where the DJs will perform live and engage with the crowd through games and giveaways. Download Kakee on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store: Hashtag: #SodramaEntertainment #kakeesg #kakee #newapp #applaunch #entertainmentapp #mediaandentertainment #media #Singapore The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. So Drama! Entertainment So Drama! Entertainment aims to deliver awesome content on air, on screen and on stage. As a Singapore media and entertainment company, it has five established brands – Kakee, 88.3JIA, POWER 98, Music & Drama Company, and PIONEER – into which it injects fun and creativity, always. For more information, please visit So Drama! Entertainment
