Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre
2022
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Entertainment
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Sheikh-Jaber-Al-Ahmad-Cultural-Centre
OVERVIEW
Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre and Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Culture Centre
This project involved the full management and operation of all events at two of Kuwait’s most prestigious cultural landmarks Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre and Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Culture Centre.
We proudly handle every aspect from A to Z, ensuring each event is executed to the highest standard.
As the creative team, we take charge of everything from concept development, planning, and programming to technical execution, including lighting, sound, stage design, and on-site production. Every event is crafted with creativity, precision, and innovation.
In collaboration with our partners, Group Seven for General Trading and Contracting, we deliver a seamless and immersive experience that positions these cultural centres as regional icons of excellence and creativity.
"Dar Al-Jamail" Celebration
In the presence of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah, Foreign Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs and Acting Defense Minister Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture Dr. Hamad Rouh Al-Din, along with several sheikhs and senior state officials, the inaugural event of the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Centre’s new season was launched under the title "Dar Al-Jamail", in celebration of the national holidays.
February Concerts – A Gathering of Arab Superstars
As part of the National Day festivities, the February Concerts brought together leading stars of the Arab world, delivering an unforgettable musical celebration that united voices and hearts from across the region.
"Sharit" – A Tribute to Kuwaiti Musical Heritage
The JACC Orchestra returned to the stage in full brilliance with "Sharit", a musical medley celebrating classic and contemporary Kuwaiti songs. Held during the Kuwait Spring Season 2022, the concert was conducted by Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud and featured a lineup of distinguished Kuwaiti vocalists, paying homage to the nation’s rich musical history.
Eid Rehearsal
The "Kuwait Summer" season our second cultural season of the year was launched with a musical concert by the Jaber Center Music Ensemble, titled "Eid Rehearsal", conducted by Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud. The event featured singers Abdulqader Al-Hadhoud and Hamad Al-Qattan, along with rising talents Abdulaziz Al-Musbah and Shouq.
Over the course of two consecutive nights, May 5 and 6, 2022, the audience enjoyed a selection of beloved songs by renowned Gulf artists, performed by the four singers and accompanied by the choir.
The concert also included a number of theatrical sketches presented between the musical segments.
Beethoven
With an orchestra of 45 top-tier musicians from Kuwait, joined by a number of high-level international performers, the Ahmadi Music Group presented a remarkable concert that combined live classical performance with an educational lecture about one of the most renowned composers in Western classical music history—Ludwig van Beethoven.
The ensemble performed two of Beethoven's works: the Egmont Overture and the iconic Fifth Symphony, known for its famous opening ten seconds—arguably the most recognizable passage in classical music. Between the two pieces, orchestra director and conductor Richard Bushman delivered an engaging lecture on Beethoven’s life, the unique characteristics of his compositions, and a musical analysis of the Fifth Symphony.
Dear Zoo
As part of its summer season, the center hosted several international performances for children, beginning with the global stage adaptation of the beloved children's book "Dear Zoo" by British author Rod Campbell. The play ran from May 18 to 21 at the Drama Theatre. Tickets for the first five shows sold out within days of the announcement, prompting the center to add two additional shows, which also sold out.
Nights of Aden
Our summer season featured three musical nights under the title "Nights of Aden", celebrating the rich Yemeni musical heritage and its legendary artists. Set in an intimate atmosphere, the evenings revived the spirit of traditional Adeni gatherings, when the city of Aden was a thriving cultural hub for the arts.
Gipsy Kings
The National Theatre hosted one of the biggest concerts of the Kuwait Summer season, featuring the world-famous Gipsy Kings and their founder Tonino Baliardo, over two nights—June 16 and 17, 2022.
Audiences were thrilled by the band’s greatest flamenco hits, sung in Andalusian Spanish. Known for their international fame in the late 1980s, the Gipsy Kings have sold over 20 million albums worldwide. During the concert, they also debuted their newest single “Chica del Sol”, performing it live for the first time on stage.
Turkish Melodies
In an extraordinary musical evening held in the Round Hall on Monday, June 20, audiences enjoyed “Turkish Melodies,” a musical journey through the most iconic Turkish compositions in history. The performance was led by qanun virtuoso Dr. Bassam Al-Balushi, accompanied by a talented ensemble.
The program featured works by legendary Turkish composers from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as original pieces by Dr. Al-Balushi inspired by Turkish maqams and rhythms infused with Arab soul. The highlight of the evening was the surprise performance by Turkish singer Tugce Najjar, who delighted the crowd with her singing and instrumental contributions.
Takht Sharqi Evening – A Journey Through Kuwaiti Melodies
The Modernized Takht Sharqi Ensemble at the center presents a new musical evening featuring a selection of Kuwait’s most beloved traditional tunes.
Following the huge success of their first concert held at the Round Hall in June, where the venue was filled with lovers of authentic melodies, the ensemble now returns with “Kuwaiti Melodies”, hosted at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall. This concert features timeless compositions by legendary Kuwaiti artists such as Ahmad Baqer, Awadh Dukhi, Sulaiman Al-Mulla, Yousef Al-Muhanna, Saud Al-Rashed, Anwar Abdullah, and Rashed Al-Khadr.
“Kalthoumiat” with Rehab Matawea
The Kuwait Summer season concluded with a spectacular tribute concert titled “Kalthoumiat”, honoring the timeless legacy of Umm Kulthum. The concert was performed by acclaimed Egyptian singer Rehab Matawea, accompanied by the orchestra under the baton of Maestro Ahmed Atef.
Held on Thursday and Friday, July 21 and 22, the concert featured four of Umm Kulthum’s legendary songs: Amal Hayati, Ya Msahharni, Enta Omri, and Alf Leila w Leila. It was a nostalgic return to the golden age of Arabic music, showcasing masterful orchestration and Rehab’s powerful voice.
Baligh Hamdi – The Sultan of Melodies
Though the Kuwait Summer season was filled with outstanding concerts, the tribute concert “Baligh Hamdi – The Sultan of Melodies” held on September 1 and 2 stood out for its emotional and historical significance.
Celebrating one of the Arab world's most prolific composers, the concert featured many of Hamdi’s most memorable compositions that were performed by top artists from the 1950s to the 1990s. Egyptian singer Rehab Matawea headlined the evening, alongside emerging Kuwaiti talents Mashaal and Khalaf Al-Mashouf, reviving the musical genius of Baligh Hamdi in a vibrant celebration of Arabic music heritage.
Guy Manoukian – The International Lebanese Maestro
The world-renowned Lebanese musician Guy Manoukian performed at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall. Known for his brilliant fusion of Eastern and Western music, Manoukian has performed on prestigious stages around the world, including the legendary Olympia Hall in Paris and the Sydney Opera House. He has also collaborated with major international stars such as Wyclef Jean, 50 Cent, and the Gipsy Kings.
Boyce Avenue – The American Vocal Sensation
The American band Boyce Avenue, known for their millions of views online, will be performing their greatest hits this September. The band, formed by brothers Alejandro, Daniel, and Fabian, rose to fame with their acoustic covers of popular songs, which went viral on YouTube, often gaining more popularity than the original versions.
Face to Face – The Virtuoso Accordion Duo
An extraordinary musical duo delivers powerful performances of iconic classical pieces and global hits. Thanks to their unmatched talent and exceptional stage presence, the audience experiences the sensation of a full orchestra.
Face to Face features two outstanding accordionists from Poland, Pawel Janas and Bartosz Kołsut. Their captivating performances blend classical masterpieces with modern melodies, creating an unforgettable experience for every listener.
A Tribute to Suleiman Al-Mulla – A Night of Timeless Music
The center celebrates the legacy of Suleiman Al-Mulla with a special concert led by singer Fawaz Al-Rujaib and the orchestra under the baton of Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud.
Since beginning his musical journey in the 1970s, Suleiman Al-Mulla carved a prominent place in the Kuwaiti music scene as a composer, performer, and singer. His passing on July 21 marked the loss of a pioneer who shaped Kuwait’s musical identity. This tribute evening honors his remarkable legacy, revisiting some of his most memorable compositions that remain etched in our hearts and memories.
Sinbad Night – A Celebration of Rashed Al-Majed’s Greatest Hits
As a gift to its audience at the launch of the 2022/23 cultural season, the center presents a special evening featuring the timeless songs of Rashed Al-Majed, the Gulf’s Sinbad.
This musical tribute, titled “Sinbad Night”, features performances by singers Fahad Al-Salem and Jassem Mohammed, accompanied by the orchestra under the direction of Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud. Join us on Friday, September 9, at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall for a night filled with nostalgia and golden melodies that defined a generation.
The Ayoub Sisters – A Fusion of East and West
Sarah and Laura Ayoub, the renowned musical duo, perform their signature interpretations of iconic classical works and authentic oriental compositions, accompanied by the Ahmadi Musical Ensemble.
The Ayoub Sisters gained international recognition with their distinctive performances on piano, violin, and cello, reinterpreting classical, Egyptian, and global music. Launching their career as a multi-instrumental duo, they brought classical music closer to mainstream audiences, especially the youth. Their performances include appearances at London’s prestigious Royal Albert Hall and major international venues, and their music has been recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
February Concerts – A Gathering of Arab Superstars
As part of the National Day festivities, the February Concerts brought together leading stars of the Arab world, delivering an unforgettable musical celebration that united voices and hearts from across the region.
"Sharit" – A Tribute to Kuwaiti Musical Heritage
The JACC Orchestra returned to the stage in full brilliance with "Sharit", a musical medley celebrating classic and contemporary Kuwaiti songs. Held during the Kuwait Spring Season 2022, the concert was conducted by Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud and featured a lineup of distinguished Kuwaiti vocalists, paying homage to the nation’s rich musical history.
Eid Rehearsal
The "Kuwait Summer" season our second cultural season of the year was launched with a musical concert by the Jaber Center Music Ensemble, titled "Eid Rehearsal", conducted by Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud. The event featured singers Abdulqader Al-Hadhoud and Hamad Al-Qattan, along with rising talents Abdulaziz Al-Musbah and Shouq.
Over the course of two consecutive nights, May 5 and 6, 2022, the audience enjoyed a selection of beloved songs by renowned Gulf artists, performed by the four singers and accompanied by the choir.
The concert also included a number of theatrical sketches presented between the musical segments.
Beethoven
With an orchestra of 45 top-tier musicians from Kuwait, joined by a number of high-level international performers, the Ahmadi Music Group presented a remarkable concert that combined live classical performance with an educational lecture about one of the most renowned composers in Western classical music history—Ludwig van Beethoven.
The ensemble performed two of Beethoven's works: the Egmont Overture and the iconic Fifth Symphony, known for its famous opening ten seconds—arguably the most recognizable passage in classical music. Between the two pieces, orchestra director and conductor Richard Bushman delivered an engaging lecture on Beethoven’s life, the unique characteristics of his compositions, and a musical analysis of the Fifth Symphony.
Dear Zoo
As part of its summer season, the center hosted several international performances for children, beginning with the global stage adaptation of the beloved children's book "Dear Zoo" by British author Rod Campbell. The play ran from May 18 to 21 at the Drama Theatre. Tickets for the first five shows sold out within days of the announcement, prompting the center to add two additional shows, which also sold out.
Nights of Aden
Our summer season featured three musical nights under the title "Nights of Aden", celebrating the rich Yemeni musical heritage and its legendary artists. Set in an intimate atmosphere, the evenings revived the spirit of traditional Adeni gatherings, when the city of Aden was a thriving cultural hub for the arts.
Gipsy Kings
The National Theatre hosted one of the biggest concerts of the Kuwait Summer season, featuring the world-famous Gipsy Kings and their founder Tonino Baliardo, over two nights—June 16 and 17, 2022.
Audiences were thrilled by the band’s greatest flamenco hits, sung in Andalusian Spanish. Known for their international fame in the late 1980s, the Gipsy Kings have sold over 20 million albums worldwide. During the concert, they also debuted their newest single “Chica del Sol”, performing it live for the first time on stage.
Turkish Melodies
In an extraordinary musical evening held in the Round Hall on Monday, June 20, audiences enjoyed “Turkish Melodies,” a musical journey through the most iconic Turkish compositions in history. The performance was led by qanun virtuoso Dr. Bassam Al-Balushi, accompanied by a talented ensemble.
The program featured works by legendary Turkish composers from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as original pieces by Dr. Al-Balushi inspired by Turkish maqams and rhythms infused with Arab soul. The highlight of the evening was the surprise performance by Turkish singer Tugce Najjar, who delighted the crowd with her singing and instrumental contributions.
Takht Sharqi Evening – A Journey Through Kuwaiti Melodies
The Modernized Takht Sharqi Ensemble at the center presents a new musical evening featuring a selection of Kuwait’s most beloved traditional tunes.
Following the huge success of their first concert held at the Round Hall in June, where the venue was filled with lovers of authentic melodies, the ensemble now returns with “Kuwaiti Melodies”, hosted at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall. This concert features timeless compositions by legendary Kuwaiti artists such as Ahmad Baqer, Awadh Dukhi, Sulaiman Al-Mulla, Yousef Al-Muhanna, Saud Al-Rashed, Anwar Abdullah, and Rashed Al-Khadr.
“Kalthoumiat” with Rehab Matawea
The Kuwait Summer season concluded with a spectacular tribute concert titled “Kalthoumiat”, honoring the timeless legacy of Umm Kulthum. The concert was performed by acclaimed Egyptian singer Rehab Matawea, accompanied by the orchestra under the baton of Maestro Ahmed Atef.
Held on Thursday and Friday, July 21 and 22, the concert featured four of Umm Kulthum’s legendary songs: Amal Hayati, Ya Msahharni, Enta Omri, and Alf Leila w Leila. It was a nostalgic return to the golden age of Arabic music, showcasing masterful orchestration and Rehab’s powerful voice.
Baligh Hamdi – The Sultan of Melodies
Though the Kuwait Summer season was filled with outstanding concerts, the tribute concert “Baligh Hamdi – The Sultan of Melodies” held on September 1 and 2 stood out for its emotional and historical significance.
Celebrating one of the Arab world's most prolific composers, the concert featured many of Hamdi’s most memorable compositions that were performed by top artists from the 1950s to the 1990s. Egyptian singer Rehab Matawea headlined the evening, alongside emerging Kuwaiti talents Mashaal and Khalaf Al-Mashouf, reviving the musical genius of Baligh Hamdi in a vibrant celebration of Arabic music heritage.
Guy Manoukian – The International Lebanese Maestro
The world-renowned Lebanese musician Guy Manoukian performed at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall. Known for his brilliant fusion of Eastern and Western music, Manoukian has performed on prestigious stages around the world, including the legendary Olympia Hall in Paris and the Sydney Opera House. He has also collaborated with major international stars such as Wyclef Jean, 50 Cent, and the Gipsy Kings.
Boyce Avenue – The American Vocal Sensation
The American band Boyce Avenue, known for their millions of views online, will be performing their greatest hits this September. The band, formed by brothers Alejandro, Daniel, and Fabian, rose to fame with their acoustic covers of popular songs, which went viral on YouTube, often gaining more popularity than the original versions.
Face to Face – The Virtuoso Accordion Duo
An extraordinary musical duo delivers powerful performances of iconic classical pieces and global hits. Thanks to their unmatched talent and exceptional stage presence, the audience experiences the sensation of a full orchestra.
Face to Face features two outstanding accordionists from Poland, Pawel Janas and Bartosz Kołsut. Their captivating performances blend classical masterpieces with modern melodies, creating an unforgettable experience for every listener.
A Tribute to Suleiman Al-Mulla – A Night of Timeless Music
The center celebrates the legacy of Suleiman Al-Mulla with a special concert led by singer Fawaz Al-Rujaib and the orchestra under the baton of Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud.
Since beginning his musical journey in the 1970s, Suleiman Al-Mulla carved a prominent place in the Kuwaiti music scene as a composer, performer, and singer. His passing on July 21 marked the loss of a pioneer who shaped Kuwait’s musical identity. This tribute evening honors his remarkable legacy, revisiting some of his most memorable compositions that remain etched in our hearts and memories.
Sinbad Night – A Celebration of Rashed Al-Majed’s Greatest Hits
As a gift to its audience at the launch of the 2022/23 cultural season, the center presents a special evening featuring the timeless songs of Rashed Al-Majed, the Gulf’s Sinbad.
This musical tribute, titled “Sinbad Night”, features performances by singers Fahad Al-Salem and Jassem Mohammed, accompanied by the orchestra under the direction of Maestro Ahmad Al-Oud. Join us on Friday, September 9, at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Concert Hall for a night filled with nostalgia and golden melodies that defined a generation.
The Ayoub Sisters – A Fusion of East and West
Sarah and Laura Ayoub, the renowned musical duo, perform their signature interpretations of iconic classical works and authentic oriental compositions, accompanied by the Ahmadi Musical Ensemble.
The Ayoub Sisters gained international recognition with their distinctive performances on piano, violin, and cello, reinterpreting classical, Egyptian, and global music. Launching their career as a multi-instrumental duo, they brought classical music closer to mainstream audiences, especially the youth. Their performances include appearances at London’s prestigious Royal Albert Hall and major international venues, and their music has been recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.