Latest news with #GrandOrchestra
Zawya
10-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Get ready for the return of Ramadan Arcade
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the return of the seventh edition of Ramadan Arcade at Manarat Al Saadiyat, set to take place between 15 to 25 March from 9pm to 2am. Over the years, Ramadan Arcade has become a beloved gathering for Abu Dhabi's youth and residents, celebrating the spirit of community and togetherness during the holy month. This year, Manarat Al Saadiyat will transform into a vibrant contemporary majlis, welcoming young adults and families for another unforgettable season filled with games and tournaments, interactive art installations and activities, live entertainment, and an exciting selection of food and beverage concepts. Here's what to expect from this year's edition: Ramadan Arcade will open with a special Grand Orchestra performance by Bait Al Oud Orchestra and Choir, followed by a daily series of musical jam sessions at the majlis stage, featuring students and faculty from the oud, qanun, violin, cello, and vocal departments. Meanwhile, for the first time and exclusively at Ramadan Arcade, visitors will have the chance to play Assassin's Creed Shadows on its official launch date, 20 March, with the game available to play until the end of the event, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Gaming. Ramadan Arcade is also bringing back the popular Ladies' Pink Majlis for this year's edition. The ladies-only space will feature themed nights, vibrant retail pop-ups, and activities from henna making to jewelry, calligraphy, and gaming. In another returning highlight, Comedy Night is back at Ramadan Arcade on 22 March, featuring a fresh lineup of local comedians for a night full of laughs — all curated and organized by Funeral Home Comedy. A community favorite, Dice Board Game Café will be managing the entire board game experience at the Majlis, bringing with them a curated selection from over 400 board and card games for visitors to enjoy throughout Ramadan Arcade. This year's Ramadan Arcade is also bringing a dynamic array of community-led, interactive art experiences. Emirati, graphic designer Hind Al Rais reimagines the classic Carrom game. This art installation reflects the game's historical journey and its role in social gatherings. In another creative experience, photographer Abdullah Almheiri presents CONCEPT, a photo booth installation that explores culture and light. Rizq Art Initiative brings a week-long pop-up to Ramadan Arcade, featuring a live studio and exhibition where visitors can engage with teaching artists like Maitha Al Omaira, Elizabeth Dorazio, and Karine Roche, alongside works by artists including Akil Ahmad, Camelia Mohebi, and Shamsa Al Mansoori. Get your tickets for Ramadan Arcade online now at [ or at the event entrance. A single-day pass is priced at 50 AED, while an all-days pass is available for 350 AED. About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi's culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi's wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate's position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate's potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism. DCT Abu Dhabi's vision is defined by the emirate's people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi's status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought. For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: and
Euronews
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Euronews
Grand Christmas Charity Orchestra: the foundation that changed Polish medicine
The Grand Christmas Charity Orchestra has been uniting Poles for 33 years. The foundation was founded in 1993 with the aim of bringing help to those who need it most. It supports public health in Poland by purchasing state-of-the-art equipment for hospitals and clinics. To date, the Grand Orchestra has contributed to the implementation of eight national medical programmes. Mr. Robot, a volunteer dressed as a robot, wouldn't miss the event for the world: "I can see how happy people are. It's good entertainment and I'm glad that such an event has been held every year for the past 33 years in our country." Since it was set up, the foundation has raised almost €474 million for medical aid. Donors receive heart-shaped stickers in exchange for their donations. Eryk, a volunteer with the foundation, has himself benefited from the equipment set up thanks to it: "I think it's worth helping. I was in an accident, and when I woke up from a coma in hospital, the first thing I saw were the machines [in the hospital room] with heart stickers. Since then, every year I've gone to raise money. This is the sixth time I've done it." Integral part of Polish culture This year's campaign mobilised hundreds of thousands of volunteers in Poland and abroad, in 23 countries. Dorota is a foundation volunteer. She dresses up as a Barbie doll to attract the attention of passers-by. Her children have also benefited from the foundation's donations. "I'm wearing this costume because I wanted to attract people's attention. There are a lot of volunteers. We dressed up to raise as much money as possible. I can see the foundation's legacy in the hospitals. When my children were born, they also used the material [donations] from the Orchestra." The Grand Christmas Orchestra does more than just collect money in the streets. It organises concerts, workshops and fairs. The charity has become an integral part of Polish culture, wkith the Orchestra's red heart logo an ubiquitous symbol of support for those in need. Every year, politicians, celebrities and ordinary citizens take part, providing a lasting legacy for the future. That's why the organisers hope that this year, as in previous years, they will raise record amounts.
