Zarqa Al Yamama

The Theatre and Performing Arts Commission presents Zarqa Al Yamama opera, an extraordinary new production, the first Saudi opera, and the world’s largest grand opera in Arabic. Zarqa Al Yamama opera presents a timeless tale from the depths of the Arabian Peninsula’s heritage. The story unfolds on the stage of King Fahad Cultural Centre, with a spectacular performance that combines Saudi and international talents. The narrative revolves around the attempts of Zarqa Al Yamama, - a wise and insightful woman from the tribe of Geddes – to guide her people to survival in light of a variety of epic events that signal impending doom. The Saudi poet Saleh Zamanan – the opera’s author – wrote the opera’s chapters after being inspired by the depth of the folkloric tale that is known all over the Arab world. The opera music is composed by Australian composer Lee Bradshaw and is directed by Swiss theatrical director Daniele Finzi Pasca.