4 days ago
New West End Musical Revives Asmahan's Story on London Stage
Set in 1940s Cairo, 'Asmahan' aims to introduce the legendary singer's untold story to international audiences.
Jun 02, 2025
A new musical celebrating the life of Arab music icon Asmahan is set to premiere in London's West End. The production, titled 'Asmahan', will be staged at the Peacock Theatre on June 16th and the 17th, 2025, and aims to introduce the legendary singer's untold story to international audiences.
Set in 1940s Cairo, the musical is structured in two acts: the first unfolds during a backstage interview at the Opera House, while the second recreates a live concert. The show explores the personal and professional complexities of Asmahan's life, tracing her rise to stardom and the cultural significance she held in the Arab world. Themes of identity, fame, and artistry are central to the narrative, as the production seeks to capture the spirit of a figure who challenged expectations during a transformative period in Arab music history.
The cast includes Syrian-Armenian soprano Lena Chamamyan in the titular role, with Egyptian jazz vocalist Ahmed Harfoush portraying her brother, the celebrated composer Farid Al Atrash. Live renditions of Asmahan's songs form the heart of the performance, accompanied by choreography and projections that evoke the atmosphere of mid-century Cairo.
Produced by AM Management and Productions and Beyond, the musical combines Arabic musical heritage with Western theatrical sensibilities to create a cross-cultural experience that reflects Asmahan's own multifaceted identity. Tickets for the musical start at GBP 28, with both performances scheduled for 8:00 PM.
