Latest news with #AbuDhabiFestival
Korea Herald
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Abu Dhabi, Seoul collaboration brings discussion on contemporary art to Manarat Al Saadiyat
Coinciding with the exhibition 'Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits' — the largest presentation of Korean contemporary art in the Gulf Cooperation Council region — public programs and panel discussion are scheduled to be held at the Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi. The exhibition spanning six decades of Korean contemporary art kicked off Friday as a collaboration between the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Seoul Museum of Art, as part of Abu Dhabi Festival 2025. 'The Abu Dhabi Festival is a beacon for consolidating the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening cooperation and partnerships with friendly nations,' said Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs as well as a founding honorary patron of the Abu Dhabi Festival. 'In this regard, and based on the importance of its role in building bridges of cultural dialogue between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Korea, this exceptional exhibition embodies the advanced and prosperous strategic relations between the UAE and the friendly Republic of Korea,' he added, using the formal name of South Korea. The public program 'Layered Dialogues' takes place May 29, June 14 and 20. The upcoming program on May 29 is a panel discussion with the theme of 'Body as Medium InterFaces: Skin/Screen,' held in collaboration with the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. 'Featuring 48 exceptional works by pioneering South Korean artists, accompanied by an interactive community program open to all, this first-ever exhibition in the Middle East of the Seoul Museum of Art's collection at Manarat Al Saadiyat offers a unique opportunity to introduce local and regional audiences to the masterpieces of modern art,' said Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, minister of tolerance and coexistence as well as a patron of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation. Co-curated by UK-based independent curator Maya El Khalil and Yeo Kyung-hwan of the Seoul Museum of Art, "Layered Medium" traces key moments in Korea's contemporary art history, beginning with the radical experimentation of the 1960s and 1970s, when artists began working with video, photography and performance. 'Through our historic partnership with the world-renowned Seoul Museum of Art, we are setting a precedent for international institutional partnerships — thanks to the strength and depth of our shared ties. This is the first exhibition of the museum's collections outside of Korea, and the first exhibition of this magnitude of Korean art in the Arab world,' said Huda Alkhamis, founder of both the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Abu Dhabi Festival. "Layered Medium" is presented as part of Abu Dhabi Festival 2025, with the support of the festival's principal partners — Mubadala Investment Company and G42 — and its energy partner, GS Energy.
The National
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Carnegie Hall's lessons for the Middle East: Nurture local talent and embrace global culture
The Gulf region's arts and culture landscape is booming. In Abu Dhabi, museums are being built and the UAE's own national orchestra is being established. In Saudi Arabia, construction of 46,000-square metre opera house is under way in Riyadh, while Oman's Royal Opera House Muscat recently completed its 15th annual performance season. While the ambition can be seen and heard, the bigger question is whether these institutions are being built to last. According to Clive Gillinson, artistic director of New York's 134-year-old Carnegie Hall, the difference between legacy and spectacle lies in the clarity of intention. It is not about what you are building – or how much – but why. During a recent visit to the UAE, where he took part in Abu Dhabi Festival's Riwak Al Fikr lecture series, the British-American told The National that enduring cultural institutions are defined by their vision. It is a lesson learnt during Gillinson's 20 years at the helm of Carnegie Hall. Its global outlook, he says, has been baked into its mission since its founding in 1891. 'One has to remember Carnegie Hall is in what is the cultural capital of America, so it carries a responsibility to look outward and engage with the world,' he says. 'To do that comes down to leadership. 'Do the institution's leaders want to embrace diversity and global perspectives? That's not every organisation's mission, and that's OK, but for something to be truly global, that commitment has to be embedded in its purpose.' Abu Dhabi's creative and cultural sector, Gillinson adds, is already capitalising on its strategic position as a crossroads between East and West, as seen in the successful launch and programming of initiatives such as the Abu Dhabi Festival, Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Abrahamic Family House. These institutions and festivals do more than inspire or entertain – they form part of a broader cultural infrastructure. As cities such as New York and London have shown, a thriving cultural scene can drive economic power, with each reinforcing the other. 'New York is New York not just because of money or location,' he says. 'It's because of its cultural life. Now, if the Gulf wants to be a global economic hub – where everything passes through this part of the world – it needs the cultural dimension too. And what's wonderful is that they've understood that from the start. That's huge credit to the region.' But building institutions partly inspired by those abroad can only go so far. More than bringing in the best performances and orchestras, regional cultural centres need to lean into their own arts and traditions. 'What's really important is that people first know, understand and take pride in their own cultures,' he says. 'Everything must be rooted in valuing that heritage. At the same time, it's just as vital to be open to other cultures – to be curious and willing to listen to what the rest of the world has to offer.' Gillinson says the establishment of the UAE's National Orchestra and the upcoming June 25 performance by the National Youth Orchestra of Dubai at Carnegie Hall are significant examples of this approach. 'It's initiatives like these that show there is serious belief in what they are building here,' he says. 'It's about nurturing talent, creating opportunities, and showing young people that they belong on the world's biggest stages.' An expansive programme, featuring home-grown artists and international acts can also help regional cultural centres to withstand the transient nature of their audiences and communities. While the progress of heritage institutions like Carnegie Hall is measured in generations, their regional counterparts are often measured in years. 'In capital cities like Washington DC – where political life means people are constantly coming and going – the challenge is similar in that you have to actively build traditions and continually engage each new wave of people. That makes it harder, but it's part of the responsibility,' he says. 'If you also look at places like China, Japan and Korea, classical music wasn't originally part of the culture. Yet over the past century, it's become deeply embedded in everyday life. Today, many of the world's leading classical musicians come from those countries. They've embraced the art form and nurtured home-grown talent that now thrives internationally.' With that said, the path ahead for the region's cultural hubs is clearer. Having announced themselves on the global stage, Gillinson hopes the UAE's venues and curators – along with their Gulf counterparts – will now turn their focus to depth, developing rich, purposeful programming that reflects the region's identity both at home and abroad. 'It's a long journey, and one you have to believe in,' he says. 'But what I love about being here, and what I love about the people here, is that it's a journey they genuinely want to take and they understand it's a long-term commitment.'
Gulf Business
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 showcases global collaborations, youth empowerment
Images: Supplied Since its establishment in 2004, the Organised by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), the festival is more than an annual event – it is a year-round movement advancing creativity, education, and cultural exchange. At the heart of the festival is a belief in the transformative power of the arts – to transcend borders, spark dialogue, and inspire future generations. 'What drives the Abu Dhabi Festival is the belief that art speaks a universal language. It's about building bridges and sparking dialogue,' said a representative from ADMAF. Championing creativity and cultural diplomacy Over the years, the festival has hosted the world's most celebrated orchestras, performers, and creators. However, its impact lies not only in memorable world premieres, but also in the way it balances global ambition with local authenticity. Each edition is curated to blend tradition with innovation, with partnerships that generate cultural, educational, and social impact. The 2025 edition, which concluded earlier this month, reinforced the festival's mission by delivering a rich programme of performances, partnerships, and initiatives that continue to position Abu Dhabi as a global arts capital. A memorable edition This year's Abu Dhabi Festival, its 22nd edition, was truly exceptional, blending world-class performances with a strong educational and community impact under the inspiring theme 'Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony.' Celebrating over 50 years of friendship and diplomatic relations between the UAE and country of honour Japan, the Festival featured a breathtaking performance by Japanese taiko drumming troupe Kodo and the UAE debut of pianist Yunchan Lim, whose rendition of the Goldberg Variations left audiences in awe. Other highlights included performances by Katia and Marielle Labèque, percussionist Kuniko Kato, and an All-Star Ballet Gala with dancers from the Royal Ballet and Paris Opera Ballet. Beyond the stage, the festival's Outreach Programme engaged more than 1,700 students through open rehearsals and school visits by the artists, offering rare, up-close moments where global artistry connected with local youth. These encounters reflected the festival's enduring commitment to empowering the next generation through direct cultural engagement. Pianist Yunchan Lim performs at Abu Dhabi Festival. Image: Supplied Abroad Programme extends global reach Among the festival's flagship initiatives is the Abroad Programme , which builds partnerships with international cultural institutions while promoting Arab creativity on global stages. A highlight of the 2025 edition was the co-production of Pelléas et Mélisande with the Opéra National de Paris – a milestone in cultural diplomacy and the first of its kind between a Middle Eastern entity and the Paris Opera. Directed by acclaimed playwright Wajdi Mouawad, the production ran from February 28 to March 27 and attracted more than 22,000 attendees. It reflected the festival's growing influence as a cultural ambassador and bridge-builder between East and West. Education and empowerment at the core The Abu Dhabi Festival has also embedded education into its cultural mission, forging long-term partnerships to empower emerging talent. The Dolce & Gabbana x ADMAF Award offered talented young Emiratis six-month internships at the Italian fashion house's headquarters, providing hands-on experience in haute couture. 'This is about more than exposure. It's about building skills, confidence, and cultural fluency,' the ADMAF team said. A separate partnership with TotalEnergies supported sustainability-themed competitions and education initiatives, challenging students to merge environmental awareness with artistic expression – aligning with ADMAF's commitment to nurturing culturally and socially conscious leaders. Abu Dhabi Festival: Local talent, global platforms At home, the festival continues to foster young creatives through initiatives like the Young Media Leaders programme, launched in 2007. Emirati students and graduates are introduced to journalism, broadcasting, and digital content through immersive workshops and mentorships. 'It's not just a training ground, it's a launchpad for future storytellers,' ADMAF said. The programme is closely tied to the Artist's Studio series, which gives participants the opportunity to interview global artists and share their insights with wider audiences – extending the festival's reach beyond its performances. New initiatives aimed at younger audiences have also emerged. My First Concert introduces classical music to children under four, while Symphony Storytelling brings books and narratives to life through orchestral music. These programmes, ADMAF said, help build empathy, imagination, and language skills, nurturing emotionally intelligent future leaders regardless of whether they pursue careers in the arts. A hallmark of the Abu Dhabi Festival is its dual focus on showcasing global excellence while championing regional talent. Programmes like the Composers' Platform and long-term commissions have provided UAE-based and Arab artists with opportunities to present original work alongside international counterparts. 'We're not just showcasing culture; we're shaping it,' ADMAF affirmed. Year-round impact While the annual festival remains the centrepiece, its influence continues year-round through educational initiatives, international collaborations, and mentorships that advance the UAE's position as a cultural and creative capital. As the festival grows, it remains committed to a singular vision: to inspire, connect, and empower through the universal language of the arts.
Forbes
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Dave Chappelle To Host Tonight's Jazz At Lincoln Center Annual Gala
Jazz at Lincoln Center's 2025 gala tonight will celebrate the music of Duke Ellington and be hosted by Dave Chappelle. NAPA, CALIFORNIA - JULY 29: Dave Chappelle speaks on the Black Radio stage at the Blue Note Jazz Festival at Silverado Resort and Spa on July 29, 2023 in Napa, California. (Photo by) Getty Images Tickets to the gala—which will include a concert, dinner, dancing and an after-party at Dizzy's Club—are still available. The concert also is being streamed at Jazz Live. Chappelle, an alumnus of Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts, has a long connection to this music, Jazz at Lincoln Center said. It called him 'a jazz fan who cites Thelonious Monk as one of his favorite musicians,' It also said he 'is an amateur jazz pianist (who) has appeared at jazz festivals and clubs throughout the years.' Mercedes Ellington, Duke's granddaughter, is the gala's honorary co-chair. Performing at the concert, 'Duke at 125,' will be Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis; members of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater; drummer Jeff Hamilton; flautist Baqir Abbas; vocalist Kate Kortum; alumni of Jazz at Lincoln Center's signature education program, Essentially Ellington; plus rising stars in its youth programs. Awards also will be bestowed at the gala. The 2025 Ed Bradley Award for Leadership in Jazz will be awarded to H. E. Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, founder of Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and founder and artistic director of Abu Dhabi Festival. The 2025 Artistic Achievement Award will be awarded to Toshiko Akiyoshi, pianist and jazz composer New this year will be international awards honoring individuals who have built organizations that have had a great impact on their jazz communities. The inaugural recipients will be Greg Quigley of the Jazz Music Institute (JMI) in Brisbane, Australia; and Maribel Torre and Eugenio Elias of De Quinta Producciones in Mexico City, Mexico. Quigly's award will be presented by JLCO trombonist and Jazz Houston founder Vincent Gardner, while Torre and Elias' award will be presented by by JLCO saxophonist Alexa Tarantino and bassist Russell Hall. According to Jazz at Lincoln Center, In 1996, 'Quigley founded JMI, a private higher education provider based in Brisbane, Australia that delivers a range of courses in jazz performance, and also hosts Essentially Ellington Down Under. It also said Maribel Torre and Eugenio Elias of De Quinta Producciones in Mexico City, Mexico have been dedicated jazz presenters for many years. For over a decade, they have hosted the JALC-curated New York Jazz All Stars series and bring nine bands to tour the country each year. In addition to producing visiting artists' performances, De Quinta Producciones's work offers educational programs and master classes that impact thousands of students while engaging new audiences.' Chappelle, it added, 'is the 2019 recipient of the Kennedy Center's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the 2025 NAACP President's Award. Chappelle's work in television and film includes his groundbreaking sketch comedy series "Chappelle's Show," which became the best-selling TV show in DVD history, multiple Netflix comedy specials, and memorable guest appearances on "Saturday Night Live." He has earned five Emmy Awards, including three for his Netflix specials and two for hosting "Saturday Night Live" (2017, 2021), where his most recent 17-minute monologue stands as the longest in the show's 50-year history. Chappelle has won six Grammy Awards for Best Comedy Album, including his most recent for "The Dreamer" (2025).' . .
Al Etihad
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Riley Mulherkar sings praises of Abu Dhabi Festival and International Jazz Day
30 Apr 2025 00:05 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI) Aletihad interviewed acclaimed trumpeter Riley Mulherkar, whose brass quartet performed a tribute to late music legend Quincy Jones on April 29 at NYU Abu Dhabi, as part of the Abu Dhabi Festival.A founding member of the New York–based brass band The Westerlies, Mulherkar, a recipient of Lincoln Centre's Emerging Artist Award in 2020, has been praised as "über hip, modern yet timeless", and is renowned for fusing jazz, modern classical and folk music in fresh, boundary-pushing the sidelines of the tribute performance, Mulherkar spoke about how Abu Dhabi's energy and cultural vibrancy has influenced his music."This performance was the international debut of this project, and I was honoured to bring the music to such an international hub of arts and culture. The energy and vibrancy of Abu Dhabi infused our performance with new dynamism."Mulherkar said he felt drawn to the festival and the art scene in the city, which has been named Global Host City of International Jazz Day by explained how he adapted his unique mix of jazz, modern classical and folk for the Abu Dhabi audience."I think my influences come from my mentors and my heroes, who instilled in me a love for lineages of American music beyond any one genre. However, in any performance, I try to think less about genre as much as how to be present in the moment to listen and respond to what is happening around me, and given the improvisational nature of the music, what we discover and share with Abu Dhabi will be unique and will never have happened before."He also spoke about the role of the Abu Dhabi Festival in promoting innovation and transcending genres."We were honoured to be included in the Abu Dhabi Festival among such an inspiring lineup of innovative and groundbreaking artists. It is inspiring to see the festival elevating artists and championing their work on an international level."Mulherkar praised the cultural diversity of Abu Dhabi and how audiences received his music, remarking: "I think Abu Dhabi's cultural diversity will allow for many entry points into the music, whether through a familiarity with jazz, improvised music, folk music or contemporary music in general." He added: "My hope was that the audience in Abu Dhabi was emotionally transported to a new place by our performance."
