Latest news with #CulturalDays
Asharq Al-Awsat
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Asharq Al-Awsat
The Power of Cross-Cultural Engagement
Culture can be a powerful force in inspiring unity. It bridges differences, fosters mutual understanding, and transforms how we connect with one another. These connections are built through cross-cultural engagement; a process of sharing traditions, values, crafts, arts, stories, and heritage between different cultures. These interactions help different societies recognize their similarities, learn from one another, and complement each other in ways that enrich them both. At Ithra, cultural exchange is not just about showcasing traditions—it's about sparking curiosity and forging meaningful relationships that transcend borders. Since opening in 2018, Ithra has served as a window to global cultural experiences, introducing local audiences to diverse cultures while sharing our own heritage with the world. Ithra's Role in Promoting Cultural Appreciation Through dynamic and enriching programs, Ithra has positioned itself as a key player in Saudi and global cross-cultural interactions. The Al-Hijrah Exhibition by Ithra, for example, told the journey of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in a universally accessible way, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to engage with its historical and spiritual significance. This story was told through an exhibition, publication, and film—with the publication and film being shared globally. And our Bridges Program, one of Ithra's earliest cross-cultural exchange programs, was a foundational initiative, connecting Saudi creatives with artist residencies, talks, and collaborations that positioned Saudi talent internationally. Our work also connects local audiences to international cultures. The Cultural Days program exemplifies this vision, which recently launched its third edition focusing on Japanese culture and heritage, transforming Ithra into a gateway to another world. As I walked through Ithra's transformed spaces, I saw young Saudis attempting Japanese calligraphy, families experiencing the meticulous art of the tea ceremony, and creatives finding inspiration in the elegant craftsmanship of traditional kimonos. A highlight was the first-ever Saudi Arabian performance by Drum Tao, a world-renowned Japanese drumming ensemble, demonstrating how traditional art forms evolve while maintaining their cultural roots. One of the most profound instances of cross-cultural engagement at Ithra happens during our Summer Camp. Last year, the program invited children from different backgrounds—Saudi, German, Chinese, and beyond—to an intensive two-week program where they learned, collaborated, and engaged with cultural topics. This kind of experience develops meaningful connections and creates friendships that shape these young participants' perspectives well into the future. The small, positive changes that result from cross-cultural exchange have a ripple effect, extending beyond the individuals involved and influencing the broader community. Cross-Cultural Exchange that Enriches the Community Ithra is more than a cultural center; it is a gathering place where people celebrate heritage, identity, and shared experiences. Our programs cultivate a sense of belonging, uniting people through enriching cultural engagement. It is a place where national identity is honored and explored while embracing global perspectives. When people engage with different cultural expressions, they become more rooted in their own identities, gaining a greater understanding of their own traditions so they can share them meaningfully. At the same time, they open themselves up to learning and inspiration from other cultures. The Future of Cultural Engagement As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, I'm excited by our upcoming cultural exchange programs and events. Our collaboration with China's National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) to host the official Chinese orchestra in December is something to look forward to. Our ongoing and upcoming museum exhibitions celebrating artisanship and artistic crafts from around the world are another central focus of our cross-cultural exchange efforts this year. The question is not whether to continue, but how to make these initiatives even more impactful. How can we design experiences that leave a lasting impression? What cultures can we bring into dialogue with our own? Culture is more than entertainment or aesthetics—it is about connection, learning, and growth. When we open ourselves to new perspectives, we do more than learn about the world; we redefine our place within it.
Bahrain News Gazette
07-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Bahrain News Gazette
Treasures of Bahrain: Art of Gold Crafting Through Ages Exhibition Concludes in Moscow
Moscow: After more than three months of highlighting Bahrain's rich gold craftsmanship, the Treasures of Bahrain: The Art of Gold Crafting Through the Ages exhibition has concluded at the State Historical Museum in Moscow. According to Bahrain News Agency, the exhibition was inaugurated in November last year in the presence of Bahraini and Russian officials as part of Bahrain's Cultural Days in Moscow. This initiative was held under the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and the Russian Ministry of Culture during the historic visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, to the Russian Federation. Through a curated selection of artefacts, the exhibition offered insight into the history of gold craftsmanship in Bahrain, tracing its evolution from the Tylos period over 2000 years ago, through the Islamic era, and into the modern age. It provided an opportunity to explore the artistry of Bahraini goldsmiths. The exhibition also featured items from the Al Mannai Jewellery collection, as well as tools and documents showcasing Bahrain's efforts to preserve this craft and its role in the local economy. As part of the Memorandum of Understanding, Bahrain is also hosting the Russian Seasons, an initiative that coincides with the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Russian Federation. The programme has already presented a series of cultural highlights, including a concert by the Mariinsky Orchestra at the Bahrain National Theatre and a dance performance by the State Academic Honored Dance Ensemble of Dagestan, Lezginka. The Russian Seasons will continue throughout 2025 with two major cultural performances. The ballet The Nutcracker will grace the stage of the Bahrain National Theatre, while the Ossipov National Academic Folk Instruments Orchestra of Russia will perform at the Cultural Hall, accompanied by a Bahraini folk band.
Daily Tribune
07-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Tribune
Gold crafting exhibition
After more than three months of highlighting Bahrain's rich gold craftsmanship, the Treasures of Bahrain: The Art of Gold Crafting Through the Ages exhibition has concluded at the State Historical Museum in Moscow. The exhibition was inaugurated in November last year in the presence of Bahraini and Russian officials as part of Bahrain's Cultural Days in Moscow. This initiative was held under the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and the Russian Ministry of Culture during the historic visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, to the Russian Federation.
Daily Tribune
29-01-2025
- Daily Tribune
Mariinsky Orchestra concert marks launch of Russian Seasons in Bahrain at National Theatre
MoU The Russian Seasons are organised by the Russian Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the BACA, as part of the Memorandum of Understanding signed in May 2024 during His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's visit to Russia. This partnership also brought Bahrain's Cultural Days in Moscow in November 2024, which included the inauguration of the Treasures of Bahrain: The Art of Gold Crafting Through the Ages exhibition at the State Historical Museum. This exhibition, running until February 2025, showcases the evolution of Bahraini goldsmithing, tracing its journey from the Tylos period over 2000 years ago through the Islamic era and into the modern age.
