Sharjah Performing Arts launches UAE's first College of Music
The College of Music at SPAA will offer a comprehensive and industry-focused curriculum, designed to equip students with the technical expertise, artistic vision, and professional skills needed for successful careers in various fields of music. Programmes will cover
Western and Arabic music performance, composition, conducting, music technology, musicology, and music pedagogy
, providing a holistic education that embraces both tradition and innovation.
Dr. Alexandros Spyrou, Dean of the College of Music, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch:
'The College of Music at SPAA represents a major step forward for music education in the region. Our aim is to nurture a new generation of musicians who will contribute to the rapidly evolving musical landscape of the UAE and the MENA region. We are committed to providing our students with a rigorous artistic education that
upholds the highest international standards
but at the same time remains connected to the cultural fabric of the region.'
The new college will offer state-of-the-art facilities, including specialised rehearsal spaces, recording studios, and performance venues. Students will benefit from mentorship by internationally renowned faculty and opportunities to collaborate across SPAA's diverse performing arts disciplines.
'With the establishment of the College of Music, SPAA continues its mission to be a centre of excellence for the performing arts,' added Spyrou. 'We are creating a space where students can develop their talent, push their artistic boundaries, and define their artistic identity.'
The College of Music is set to welcome its first cohort of students in September 2025, with applications now open for aspiring musicians eager to begin their educational journey.
For more information about SPAA and its programmes, visit
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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.'
The National
3 days ago
- The National
Global creatives grab spotlight as Sharjah prepares to host performance design ‘Olympics'
Many of the most creative people in the world of theatre will make their way to the UAE this autumn as stars of the backstage enter the spotlight. Sharjah is to become the first destination in the Middle East to host the prestigious World Stage Design - the only designer-based event to showcase and celebrate performance design from individual creatives. It takes place every four years, with previous events being held in Toronto, Seoul, Cardiff, Taipei and Calgary. This time, WSD is happening from October 18 to 25 at centres in Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) and other sites across the city. The event features international designers - established and emerging in the business - and draws theatre lovers through to those aspiring to work in the industry. Sharjah will host WSD's sixth event under the theme Tomorrow's Heritage - the idea being that tomorrow's heritage is today's exploration. Jacqui George is the project director. A former SPAA programme leader and deputy director, she pitched Sharjah for WSD 2025. 'We've been calling it the expo of design, because we had Expo 2020 on our doorstep when we pitched and it's the kind of nearest comparative,' she says. 'It's been a long build-up, but there's so much detail and so many different components to it.' WSD brings an often under-celebrated cache of theatre talent into the limelight and will showcase designers across performance design, space and object design, set design, sound design, costume design, lighting design and video. 'We get used to working on our own in theatre and other creative sectors,' Ms George says. 'My background is stage and production management and I know other stage and production managers, but I never really worked with them because you get one on a show and then you go on to your next. 'So, World Stage Design is where all of these international professional designers from all the different disciplines, lighting to sound to costume to set, come together to display the best work.' WSD 2025 will also include a series of discussions, panels, masterclasses, workshops, and performances, with participants flying in from around the world. The event has four key segments. Twelve months ago, organisers opened applications for the World Stage Design Exhibition, inviting professionals to emerging designers covering any production design technique, from lighting to puppets. 'We received over 1,000 submissions from across the globe and we had two panels, which comprised 16 international jury members, that shortlisted them,' says Ms George. 'In the academy building over the eight days, we'll have 100 designers coming from across the world to exhibit their actual work and, on the penultimate evening, we'll award first, second and third in each category.' Meanwhile, the results of the Theatre Architecture Competition will take place at Bait Obaid Al Shamsi, a historic location chosen in co-ordination with Sharjah Art Foundation. It will showcase ideas for a 100-seat performance space fulfilling the Tomorrow's Heritage brief alongside sustainable theatre making. Entries were received from more than 50 countries, with those selected to have their creations realised in the heritage house setting announced in June. Entries for the Technical Invention Prize close in July. It showcases ideas and inventions developed by technicians in the entertainment industry that support theatre production, possibly by solving a problem such as making it rain paper on stage. Twenty finalists will be exhibited at venue partner Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park with their ideas potentially future innovation and implementation. WSD is being co-produced by the International Organisation of Scenographers Theatre Architects and Technicians and SPAA. Previous events have drawn up to 12,000 participants, from a mix of disciplines and interests, to showcase, entertain, learn and network. 'We're aiming for really healthy engagement, including bringing in new theatre audiences,' says Ms George. 'People who maybe go and enjoy theatre … it's absolutely something for them as well because when we go to the theatre or see a live event and the amazing lighting, or video, incredible costumes, we don't always think about what happens to get that stuff there, what that process is and the people involved.' That element will also be well showcased by Scenofest, the dynamic 'festival' strand of WSD 2025. It incorporates talks, workshops, masterclasses, performances and live installations, taking place in all the locations mentioned and other areas of Sharjah. Workshops will include how to light a puppetry performance, with a Hong Kong puppetmaster, and another for costume design using recycled or reusable materials. 'Whether you've never been in a design process or thought about it for theatre, or you are a complete expert doing it for 20 years, there's something in the Scenofest programme for everyone,' says Ms George. 'One of our keynotes is an international designer who works all over the world on very large projects, in the region as well, but then we also show you how to make a show and put it in the boot of your car. 'Even if you don't want to do a workshop or masterclass and just want to see some good, different theatre, there are performances from New Zealand, Nigeria, Hungary, Hong Kong, all over the world, throughout the week.' Beyond the international theatre community, the WSD project director hopes the event will impact the UAE's burgeoning theatre industry and maybe better unite local theatre practitioners. 'It's also about showcasing what's happening here as those specialists are here, but I don't think the rest of the world knows about it enough,' says Ms George. 'Because this is going to be the first time World Stage Design is in this region, hopefully it might trigger and spark interest and enthusiasm for the genre. 'The theatre ecology here is young. Maybe it hasn't grown as quickly as some other sectors, but there's a huge richness about the work that's being made.' Ms George also hopes younger WSD visitors might be inspired to explore careers in show business other than acting or singing, maybe in a role where there is a skills shortage. 'A challenge the industry faces on an international level, not just here, is unless you get engagement and interest at a young age, a career opportunity doesn't really present itself,' she says. 'You don't hear many young people going, 'I'm going to be a lighting designer', but if you look at the opportunities and the career it gives you…if World Stage Design can highlight to a younger generation all of these really viable careers, then that'll be a massive tick for me as well.'
Web Release
4 days ago
- Web Release
Celebrate Eid Al-Adha with Läderach's Handcrafted Swiss Chocolate Collections
This Eid Al-Adha, celebrate the spirit of giving with Läderach's elegant selection of handcrafted Swiss chocolates, offered in beautifully curated Eid trays and customizable gift boxes that bring a refined touch to every occasion. With over 60 years of chocolate-making expertise, Läderach combines tradition, quality, and artistry to create gifts that are as memorable as they are delicious. Each creation is made using cocoa mass produced in-house, ensuring a rich, responsible chocolate experience from bean to bar. Läderach's dedication to craftsmanship shines through in its signature Eid trays, adorned with subtle Arabic-inspired details and filled with an irresistible variety of flavors, including Brazil 70% Dark, Hazelnut Dark, Pistachio Dark, 3 Nuts Milk-Dark, Classic Milk, Raspberry, Blackberry White, Blackberry Dark, Cornflakes Milk, and Almond Milk. Available in various sizes and fully customizable, these trays are perfect for sharing, celebrating, and gifting. For a more personal touch, explore Läderach's customized chocolate boxes, where you can handpick your favorite pralines and slabs from a wide selection. Beautifully arranged in complimentary packaging, each box can be tailored in size and style to suit everything from intimate moments to grand festive gatherings. For something truly special, the Fresh Chocolate Wooden Box offers a luxurious assortment of beloved flavors in an elegant, keepsake presentation. Location: -Abu Dhabi: World Trade Centre, Yas Mall, Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, The Galleria Al Maryah Island & Zayed International Airport. -Dubai: The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates & Mirdif City Centre. -Sharjah: City Centre Al Zahia.
