Latest news with #SAMITEventGroup
Khaleej Times
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Canada's Alberta Ballet wows Dubai audience with performance of A Thousand Tales
Following a hugely successful premiere back in 2023, the new, contemporary ballet A Thousand Tales marked its return to Dubai, UAE on April 4 and 5, 2025, in a restaging that charmed audiences across the GCC region and beyond with its enthralling mix of classical charm, timeless narrative, and spellbinding musical score. Organised by SAMIT Event Group, with direction and choreography by Francesco Ventriglia and music from Alexey Shor, A Thousand Tales follows the White Rabbit from Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland as he goes on a quest in service of the Prince from Cinderella, attempting to find the true owner of a golden shoe dropped by a mysterious unknown woman who stole the Prince's heart. Along the way, he meets with a wide variety of characters from seminal childhood tales known the world over, including Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Puss in Boots, The Three Musketeers, and many more, with some offering assistance and others challenging him in his noble quest. Taking on the role of writer, director, and choreographer, Ventriglia was the creative lead behind the production, arriving in Dubai with Canada's Alberta Ballet dance company, whom he heads as artistic director. "Dubai is an incredible place", Ventriglia said, "and for us to come here now, it's amazing because it's an opportunity to show the work that Alberta Ballet has been doing, and to make sure that the name of the company can be internationally recognised. It's the first time ever that the company has come to Dubai and I think that we are the first Canadian ballet company performing here, so we're really very proud to be representing the country here, and A Thousand Tales is such an amazing show! It's an event for everyone, of every age! It's a fairy tale, but it's also a real ballet, with real dance technique and ballet technique which is actually very challenging, but it comes across beautifully". Ventriglia also took the time to single out the ballet's musical score, around which the entire production was constructed, remarking that "it was really the easiest thing in the world to choreograph to Alexey Shor's music, because it's so beautiful. I really love Alexey's compositions, and in fact I keep telling him that we need to do a new ballet together again some time because I really love his works, and it's so natural to create dances for this music. It's not simple music but it's perfect for ballet. The way it's constructed is very clever; there's a narrative to it, and the collaboration with him has been incredible from day one!" These sentiments were shared by the rest of the production team behind the show, with Roberta Guidi Di Bagno, the globally-acclaimed mind behind the ballet's stunning sets and costume designs, declaring that "the music is so descriptive! I'm absolutely in love with Maestro Shor's music because I think he is so poetic and so danceable, and the way Francesco translated it into ballet is just pure art!". The renowned Valerio Tiberi, meanwhile, who was the lighting designer for the production, had similar things to say, as he noted that "the music is really great; it's got all these melodies, with different rhythms and different colours and it's really wonderful. I think Francesco created a very nice combination to tell the story, because there is a comprehensive story behind the ballet, and the music is the main base, with everything else on top to help with the storytelling aspect you know". Taking centre stage during the shows themselves, meanwhile, were the dancers of Alberta Ballet, who made up both the entirety of the corps de ballet, as well as the vast majority of the principal roles. These included Aaron Anker, in the role of Prince Florian, and The Beast; Alexandra Hughes as Cinderella; Luna Sasaki as The Beauty, and Snow White; Scotto Hamed-Ramos as Aladdin, and Rothbart; Caleb Durbin as Prince Charming; Mariko Kondo as Jasmine, and the White Swan; and Mario Galindo from Spain's Compañía Nacional de Danza as the White Rabbit. "This is my first time visiting Dubai, and I'm thrilled to be here", Anker said, in comments that were echoed by many of his castmates. "It's really cool, everything's huge, the streets are huge, the buildings are huge... the scale of everything is massive, and the architecture and the design of everything is so amazing and beautiful!" "The ballet itself is really great", he continued, "I think it's a brilliant way of sort of bringing together a lot of stories that people recognise. It's a fun story, and the music, well, first of all it's beautiful, really, really lovely music, and it's always a great treat to dance to beautiful music. I 100 per cent believe that the music is first, the music makes the dance, because as a dancer you're not really much without the music! So yes, to me the music comes first and then we add to it, so it's really great that it's a beautiful score which fits perfectly with the story, and it really reflects the characters as well, which is cool". Conversely, Shor himself, the man behind the music, was also left impressed by the proceedings on the stage, with the composer exuberantly praising the vision which his own art helped inspire. "I think Francesco has done an absolutely amazing job", he said, "and he's brought together such a fantastic team and a really amazing cast of dancers! I love the way he's interpreted the music and added his own vision to it, and the end result is just a truly magical experience in every way! As a composer it's a genuine honour to see my music being transformed in this way and forming the heart of this ballet, and I would really like to congratulate everyone involved for all the hard work they've put in to make this all come to life." Having reached yet another shining milestone in its journey, A Thousand Tales now looks to continue building on its success with new theatrical runs in different venues across the globe over the months to come. To keep up-to-date with all the latest information, do make sure to follow the production's social media channels, and official website at
CairoScene
10-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
'The Snow Queen' Glides into Coca-Cola Arena This April
Choreographed by Ilia Averbukh, this dazzling ice show features Olympic medalists, world champions, and award-winning skaters. Mar 10, 2025 A winter spectacle is gliding into Dubai. Coca-Cola Arena, in partnership with SAMIT Event Group, is bringing an ice show adaptation of 'The Snow Queen' to Dubai on Wednesday, April 2nd. Based on Hans Christian Andersen's beloved fairytale, the story follows a brave young girl on a journey to rescue her best friend, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and the timeless battle between good and evil. The production is helmed by acclaimed Russian ice dancer Ilia Averbukh, a world champion and Olympic silver medalist, known for his stunning choreography. He's joined by an all-star cast of Olympic medalists, world champions, and elite skaters who will bring this magical tale to life on the ice. Tickets range from AED 125 to AED 475 and are available now via the official Coca-Cola Arena website.
Khaleej Times
14-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Jebel Hafit Desert Park to host first-ever Winds of Culture concert celebrating Chinese New Year
This February 2025, the breathtaking landscapes of Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Abu Dhabi's Al Ain will provide the setting for an extraordinary cultural experience as Pura Eco Retreats proudly presents the inaugural edition of Winds of Culture concert series spanning the year in cooperation with SAMIT Event Group. Taking place on February 15 and 16, this unique event will celebrate the Chinese New Year through a harmonious fusion of classical music, cultural heritage, and the beauty of nature, bringing audiences an immersive encounter with both Chinese and Emirati traditions. Moreover, reflecting the strong and growing cultural ties between the two nations, Winds of Culture will be held under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the UAE and is also supported by the China Cultural Centre. With Al Ain, dubbed as Abu Dhabi's 'Garden City' for its lush parks, rich culture, and exciting attractions, being named as the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025, the selection of Jebel Hafit Desert Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site — as a hosting venue is a fitting tribute to both its historical significance and its awe-inspiring natural grandeur. The two-day event will see the park transformed into a cultural hub, with a meticulously curated programme that begins on February 15 with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where guests will enjoy the delicate art of tea-making accompanied by the soulful saxophone melodies of Wang Zihao. This will be followed by a piano recital by the renowned Chinese pianist Churen Li, who will present a mesmerising repertoire that blends classical finesse with modern interpretation. The evening will continue with vibrant traditional Chinese performances, celebrating the country's deep cultural roots through music and dance. For those opting for the VIP experience, the night will conclude with an exclusive starlit dinner, offering a traditional Chinese cuisine in a setting rich in heritage and nature. The celebration will extend into February 16, beginning with an authentic Emirati breakfast, where guests can experience the warmth of traditional UAE hospitality, while being treated to a live performance of Chinese flute music by the renowned Yongjie Lu, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere further enhanced by traditional Chinese kites soaring gracefully above the desert landscape, symbolising good fortune and prosperity. Pura Eco Retreats, the mind behind this project, is an Emirati-born concept that has taken on the mission of reconnecting people with the untouched wonders of the natural world. Inspired by the UAE's ancestral wisdom and deep-rooted traditions, Pura Eco Retreats creates sanctuaries that offer guests an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the rhythms of the land, sea, and sky, carefully weaving cultural richness and modern comforts to allow guests to experience awe, tranquility, and a profound sense of belonging. The Winds of Culture initiative fits perfectly with this goal, taking classical music and traditional performances beyond conventional venues and into the heart of nature, while bridging the gap between heritage and contemporary artistic expression, and offering audiences a deep cultural and sensory experience in an open-air setting. The event promises to be an unparalleled experience for all, where music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike can gather to witness a rare meeting of traditions, and welcome the Chinese New Year in a setting unlike any other. Moreover, for those wishing to extend their visit, Pura Eco Retreats also offers luxury glamping options, providing further opportunities to experience the tranquil beauty of the desert overnight. Additionally, special hotel rates in Al Ain have been arranged for attendees looking to make the most of this unique cultural celebration.
Gulf Today
12-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Winds of Culture: A spectacular celebration of Chinese New Year in Al Ain's landscape
This February 2025, the breathtaking landscapes of Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Abu Dhabi's Al Ain will provide the setting for an extraordinary cultural experience as Pura Eco Retreats proudly presents the inaugural edition of Winds of Culture concert series spanning the year in cooperation with SAMIT Event Group. Taking place on the 15th and 16th of February, this unique event will celebrate the Chinese New Year through a harmonious fusion of classical music, cultural heritage, and the beauty of nature, bringing audiences an immersive encounter with both Chinese and Emirati traditions. Moreover, reflecting the strong and growing cultural ties between the two nations, Winds of Culture will be held under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the UAE and is also supported by the China Cultural Centre. With Al Ain, dubbed as Abu Dhabi's 'Garden City' for its lush parks, rich culture, and exciting attractions, being named as the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025, the selection of Jebel Hafit Desert Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site — as a hosting venue is a fitting tribute to both its historical significance and its awe-inspiring natural grandeur. The two-day event will see the park transformed into a cultural hub, with a meticulously curated programme that begins on February 15th with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where guests will enjoy the delicate art of tea-making accompanied by the soulful saxophone melodies of Wang Zihao. This will be followed by a piano recital by the renowned Chinese pianist Churen Li, who will present a mesmerising repertoire that blends classical finesse with modern interpretation. The evening will continue with vibrant traditional Chinese performances, celebrating the country's deep cultural roots through music and dance. For those opting for the VIP experience, the night will conclude with an exclusive starlit dinner, offering a traditional Chinese cuisine in a setting rich in heritage and nature. The celebration will extend into February 16th, beginning with an authentic Emirati breakfast, where guests can experience the warmth of traditional UAE hospitality, while being treated to a live performance of Chinese flute music by the renowned Yongjie Lu, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere further enhanced by traditional Chinese kites soaring gracefully above the desert landscape, symbolising good fortune and prosperity. Pura Eco Retreats, the mind behind this project, is a proudly Emirati-born concept that has taken on the mission of reconnecting people with the untouched wonders of the natural world. Inspired by the UAE's ancestral wisdom and deep-rooted traditions, Pura Eco Retreats creates sanctuaries that offer guests an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the rhythms of the land, sea, and sky, carefully weaving cultural richness and modern comforts to allow guests to experience awe, tranquility, and a profound sense of belonging. The Winds of Culture initiative fits perfectly with this goal, taking classical music and traditional performances beyond conventional venues and into the heart of nature, while bridging the gap between heritage and contemporary artistic expression, and offering audiences a deep cultural and sensory experience in an open-air setting. The event promises to be an unparalleled experience for all, where music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike can gather to witness a rare meeting of traditions, and welcome the Chinese New Year in a setting unlike any other! Moreover, for those wishing to extend their visit, Pura Eco Retreats also offers luxury glamping options, providing further opportunities to experience the tranquil beauty of the desert overnight. Additionally, special hotel rates in Al Ain have been arranged for attendees looking to make the most of this unique cultural celebration. Tickets for Winds of Culture are available in Gold and VIP categories, and can be purchased through Meanwhile, for more information, reservations, and media inquiries, please contact [email protected] or [email protected], and make sure to stay updated on the latest festival news by following @windsofculture on Instagram.
What's On
10-02-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Experience a gorgeous cultural celebration at Al Ain's Winds of Culture festival
Sponsored: A cultural treat awaits… Experience a one-of-a-kind cultural classic at Al Ain's Winds of Culture by Pura festival on Saturday, February 15, where timeless tradition, classical music and unmatched natural beauty shall converge at one of the UAE's most scenic natural wonders, Jebel Hafit Desert Park. Organised in collaboration with SAMIT Event Group, this pioneering edition of the festival promises to introduce you to an event site like never before, with the cultural treat being presented at a UNESCO World Heritage right here in the Garden City. This is your chance to experience thrilling classical music in a non-traditional, natural venue that will blend the traditions of China with the natural beauty of Al Ain and rich Emirati heritage. Held under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the UAE and supported by the China Cultural Centre, Jebel Hafit Desert Park, a renowned favourite among UAE residents and its horde of tourists as one of the nation's leading natural wonders was chosen to host the event with the aim of blending its delightful desert charm and cultural significance, If you're still wondering why you need to visit the first edition of the Winds of Culture by Pura festival, it's because you're about to be taken on an unforgettable ride that will introduce and expose you to nature, culture, and adventure, all right here in the UAE capital. You can look forward to entertainment and attractions such as the melodies of a skilled Chinese saxophonist and pianist, traditional tea ceremonies, and lively cultural displays, and for those that are heading out to one of the UAE's premier adventure destinations for a healthy dose of thrills, you won't be disappointed. Explore, relax and spend the night before you enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast and watch colourful kites adorn the Al Ain sky. Head to Winds of Culture by Pura in Al Ain this weekend, where the ultimate cultural celebration awaits. Winds of Culture by Pura, Jebel Hafit Desert Park, Al Ain, Saturday February 15, Dhs399 (gold), Dhs499 (VIP). Tel: (0)50 774 1639. @windsofculture. Media: supplied, Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
