#Japan #Abu Dhabi #UAE #Abu Dhabi Festival #ADMAF

Abu Dhabi Festival 2025: A Cultural Extravaganza

The Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) has unveiled an exciting lineup for the much-anticipated Abu Dhabi Festival 2025, marking its twenty-second edition. This year's festival, commencing on February 7, 2025, carries the theme "Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony". It promotes cultural diversity and celebrates the festival's country of honour, which is Japan, in recognition of over fifty years of amicable relations.

Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, attendees can look forward to an array of artistic events that promise to engage and inspire audiences both locally and internationally. The festival will feature renowned orchestras, stunning opera performances, and mesmerizing visual arts exhibitions that align with its theme of harmony and union.

A Star-Studded Lineup with Global Talent

Festival-goers can anticipate a comprehensive programme that boasts 12 premiere performances by Arab artists, exclusive global co-productions, and a variety of interactive community activities. Among the stars set to perform are:

• - Yutaka Sado leading the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra
• - The acclaimed KODO Japanese Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble
• - Violin virtuoso Augustin Hadelich
• - A magnificent opera gala featuring tenor Javier Camarena alongside soprano Jessica Pratt
• - The all-star ballet gala showcasing talents from different corners of the dance world
• - Notable performances by Riley Mulherkar, a celebrated jazz trumpeter, and other global artists.

H.E. Huda Ibrahim Al Khamis-Kanoo, the founder of ADMAF and the Abu Dhabi Festival, expressed, "The festival’s motivating theme reflects Abu Dhabi's role as a vibrant hub where diverse cultures unite to share ideas and experiences in harmony." This statement underscores the festival's commitment to fostering cultural collaborations that transcend borders, thereby enriching both local and international artistic engagement.

Historic Milestones and Global Collaborations

Beyond the live performances, the festival will also see several historic milestones. It will be the stage for the world premiere of Debussy’s Pelléas et Mélisande in collaboration with the Opera National de Paris. In addition, ADMAF has partnered with the illustrious Seoul Museum of Art in Korea for exhibitions that will tour cities including China, Japan, and Singapore.

The inclusion of Japanese art and culture throughout the festival not only highlights Japan's honored status but also aims at deepening cultural understanding through art. The festival sets a precedence for mutual respect among nations through artistic expression, providing a platform for global artists to collaborate and connect with new audiences.

In conclusion, the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 stands out as a hallmark event within the UAE's cultural calendar. It is not only a celebration of music and arts but also signifies the country's dedication to cultural richness and diversity while paving the way for future artistic partnerships. So mark your calendars for February 7 and join us in celebrating a world where cultures converge harmoniously.