‘It is our privilege to unveil the legend of Zarqa Al Yamama to the world and to use one of the most beloved national stories to launch the next chapter in Saudi Arabia’s cultural prosperity. This production represents a great achievement in international cultural exchange and in bringing together exceptional Saudi-born talents with distinguished singers and technicians from around the world, and we are delighted to have presented the first performance in a new series of artistic experiences inspired by the rich fabric of Saudi folklore stories’

Sultan Al-Bazie, CEO of the Theatre and Performing Arts Commission (adnkronos – 26 April 2024)

‘Under the Arabian sky, within Riyadh’s embrace, I witnessed a performance that left me stunned: Zarqa Al Yamama, the first debut of Arab opera: a fascinating journey, at once ancient and new. From the grandeur of the stage to the melody of the orchestra, every detail was meticulously crafted like a precious carved gem, lights dancing, sets like paintings come to life: a sensory feast that banished all conflict. World-class singers graced the stage with their art, their voices weaving stories that touched every heart, every movement, every note, a symphony of emotions, a celebration of culture, a poetic devotion (…). Engraved forever in my memory, this night of pure bliss, a testament to the magic of art, a moment I will sorely miss, so grateful to have witnessed history in the making, Zarqa Al Yamama, a treasure worth taking.’ –

Marco Fraschetti (Arte & Lusso arte8lusso.net – 27 April 2024)

Daniele Finzi Pasca directs Zarqa Al-Yamama, The first major opera in history in the Arabic language, which premiered on 25 April 2024 in Saudi Arabia on the historic stage of the renovated King Fahad Cultural Centre in Riyadh.

Under the creative direction and supervision of Daniele Finzi Pasca, who also handles the lighting design, he succeeds in harmoniously interweaving elements of the Arab tradition, captivating the audience with his personal poetic and always enchanting imagery, accompanied by some of the usual creatives: the sumptuous and colourful costumes by Giovanna Buzzi, the imposing sets by Luigi Ferrigno and Sara Palmieri, and the digital paintings by video designer Roberto Vitalini.

The creative team also includes Melissa Vettore Creative Associate Director, Elena Shubina Project Coordinator and Consultant, Gabriele Finzi assistant director, Ambra Schumacher costume assistant, Joao Vettore stage manager.

Based on an ancient tale from pre-Islamic Arabia, Zarqa Al Yamama tells the story of a legendary blue-eyed woman, born to the Geddes tribe and gifted with of clairvoyance. The story sheds fascinating light on the period and in particular on the important role women played in an ancient Arabian society, among merchants, poets and influential advisors.

An ancient and timeless tale that deals with universal themes. The visionary behind the project, Sultan Al-Bazie, CEO of the Commission for Theatre and Performing Arts, sees Zarqa Al Yamama as a key moment in the country’s cultural journey that will inspire new generations of Saudi artists while showcasing Saudi Arabian culture to international audiences.

The original opera script was written by the esteemed Saudi poet Saleh Zamanan, while the music is by internationally acclaimed composer Lee Bradshaw.

World-renowned mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly leads the main vocal cast in the role of Zarqa. Of the nine main roles, three are entrusted to performers from Saudi Arabia, including tenor Khayran Al Zahrani, with sopranos Sawsan Albahiti and Reemaz Oqbi sharing the stage with leading international artists, including bass Clive Bayley, soprano Amelia Wawrzon, soprano Serena Farnocchia, tenor Paride Cataldo and baritone George von Bergen. The opera is performed by the award-winning Dresdner Sinfoniker, with conductors Pablo González and Nayer Nagui. Vocal accompaniment by the Czech Philharmonic Choir Brno. Paolo Raffo as vocal coach and pianist. The orchestra also includes musicians from Saudi Arabia, adding a fine musical engraving of the tradition. Artistic direction by Ivan Vukcevic (First Viola Soloist of the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana).

The end result is a grand opera that blends Western operatic culture with a distinctively Saudi story, promising to delight even the most discerning opera lovers and at the same time inviting Saudi audiences to discover an ancient folk tale through an unparalleled experience.