Bahrain Spring of Culture unites East and West with first-of-its-kind West End production

TDT | Manama                                                     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Spring of Culture unites East and West in a spectacular show direct from London, "Umm Kulthum and the Golden Era", showcasing the extraordinary talent and mesmerising voice of Umm Kulthum that has captivated audiences worldwide.

This exceptional show is hosted by the Bahrain National Theatre, a landmark venue known for its major performances and artistic luminaries, and is organised by Al Dana Amphitheatre.

After more than three years since the debut of the musical "Umm Kulthum and the Golden Era" at London's Palladium theatre, producer and writer Mona Khashoggi has realized her dream of bringing this West End production to the Arabian Gulf region. As part of the 18th edition of Spring of Culture, Khashoggi's play, which garnered a standing ovation, will grace the Bahrain National Theatre on January 25-26.

Having achieved success in one of London's most prestigious theatres, Khashoggi pursued bringing the musical to the Arab world, with sold-out performances at Dubai Opera and Ithra in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Mona Khashoggi deliberately chose the title "Umm Kulthum and the Golden Era" to celebrate icons like Muhammad al Qasabji, Muhammad Abd al-Wahhab, Tahia Carioca, and the persona of Umm Kulthum herself. 

Featuring a repertoire of Umm Kulthum's iconic songs performed by the renowned Syrian opera singer Lubana Al Quntar, the musical chronicles the early life and modest beginnings of Umm Kulthum, leading up to her transformation into the Star of the Orient. 

The cast includes Jordanian actor Hani Dahshan portraying the trio of Muhammad Al Qasabji, Dr. Al-Hafnawi (Umm Kulthum's husband), and musician Muhammad Abdel Wahhab. Olivier-nominated actor Sharif Afifi takes on the roles of Ahmed Rami and Sheikh Abu Al Ela Muhammad. 

Organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research, and Al Dana Amphitheatre, in collaboration with Albareh Art Gallery, Al Riwaq Art Space, Art Concept, and La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art, the Spring of Culture is sponsored by the Economic Development Board as the strategic sponsor, with Tamkeen as the gold sponsor, and Aluminum Bahrain B.S.C.

(Alba), Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait, and the National Bank of Bahrain as silver sponsors for the 18th edition.