Latest news with #OnceUponATimeinDubai
Mid East Info
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Musical Debut: Amanda Maalouf Unveils Signature Song
In a performance that blended emotion, elegance, and East-West harmony, Lebanese-French singer Amanda Maalouf on Wednesday gave a select UAE audience a stirring preview of the upcoming musical Once Upon A Time in Dubai , set to premiere in December 2025. The exclusive showcase featured Maalouf performing 'Habibi,' one of the show's signature numbers, at an invite-only preview attended by media, partners, and cultural stakeholders. The song—a poignant blend of Arabic influences and Western theatrical arrangement—earned enthusiastic applause, offering a glimpse of what producers are calling 'a new kind of musical for a new Dubai.' 'Dubai is more than a setting—it's a character in this story,' said Stéphane Boukris, co-producer of the musical. 'This project is about cultural unity, artistic innovation, and shining a spotlight on a new generation redefining identity in the Middle East. We're proud to bring this bridge between France and the UAE to life.' For Maalouf, whose performance marked the first public taste of the show, the moment was deeply personal. ' Habibi is a song that speaks from the heart—it's a journey through love, self-expression, and identity,' she told reporters after the performance. 'Performing it here in Dubai, where East and West meet so beautifully, is a dream. This is just the beginning [of great things together].' The team behind Once Upon A Time in Dubai says the musical is more than entertainment—it's a cultural project designed to showcase Dubai as a city of stories, voices, and future-forward artistry. The production is backed by Universal Music and features a cast and crew with international credentials, with more previews and announcements expected soon. A collaboration between a visionary French team and Universal Music, the musical tells the story of a young generation rising in the heart of Dubai, navigating identity, ambition, and tradition in a rapidly changing world. With original compositions by renowned composer Nazim Khaled and set against the backdrop of the UAE's global crossroads, the show promises to be a landmark moment for original musical theatre in the region. The story, told through original music and dance, will premiere later this year, with full production details expected to be announced over the coming months sudha
Mid East Info
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
JOHAN NUS OF ARABS GOT TALENT FAME TO DIRECT REGION'S FIRST GRAND MUSICAL, ONCE UPON A TIME IN DUBAI - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai's much-anticipated first grand musical of its kind, Once Upon A Time in Dubai , will have celebrated director Johan Nus at the helm. Known for his dynamic and visionary direction across international productions including Arabs Got Talent, Nus is set to create an unforgettable theatrical experience that captures Dubai's vibrant energy and ambition. With a background that includes directing performances for X Factor and The Masked Singer , as well as acclaimed musicals like Singin' in the Rain and Sweeney Todd , Nus brings a unique blend of creativity and global perspective to this ambitious project. 'Once Upon A Time in Dubai is not just a musical; it's a bold celebration of culture, love, and ambition—values that define Dubai so well in my opinion. Directing this project is a dream come true, as it allows me to blend my passion for storytelling with the unmatched spirit of this incredible city. Audiences can expect a visual and emotional journey that will stay with them long after the curtains close.' Set to premiere in December 2025, the musical is set to become a milestone project featuring 50 shows in Dubai for an anticipated 150,000 attendees before it embarks on a world tour and movie adaptation in subsequent years eventually. Producer Stéphane Boukris, whose credentials include international successes like the Robin Hood musical, expressed his excitement about working with Nus: ' Johan's ability to connect with audiences through his direction is unparalleled. His vision aligns perfectly with what we want to achieve with Once Upon A Time in Dubai—a production that not only entertains but also resonates deeply with audiences around the globe. His expertise is critical in bringing this dream to life.' The musical is a story of dreams, love, and determination, centered on Will, a young artist who moves to Dubai to reunite with his partner, Sophia, and pursue his dream of creating a spectacular show. With original compositions by renowned composer Nazim Khaled, the production promises a mix of chart-topping songs and emotionally evocative music. Once Upon A Time in Dubai is poised to redefine theatrical entertainment in the region, showcasing Dubai as a hub for global culture and creativity.
