Set against the backdrop of the ancient city, the AlUla Arts Festival curates an immersive journey by bringing together regional and international creatives in the fields of art, music and dance to the mesmerising desertscape. For culture enthusiasts, the annual festival offers the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing them to participate in workshops, screenings and art residencies designed to promote and encourage cultural pursuits.
This year, the festival highlights the global premiere of Thikra: Night of Remembering, a performance choreographed by dancer and choreographer Akram Khan and artist Manal AlDowayan. The site-specific performance (taking place in Wadi AlFann) will include 14 dancers combining traditional Indian classical dance with contemporary tunes inspired by the desert. Aldowayan, taking the lead on costume design, merged traditional craft techniques with a modern aesthetic for the showcase, using natural dyes and pigments that add to the authenticity of the production. “‘Thikra’ deepens my exploration of AlUla's voices, which began with my research for Oasis of Stories in 2018. It marks a personal milestone as my first time working on both costume and set design as well as my first collaboration with my friend and great creative force Akram Khan.” says Aldowayan.
The AlJadidah Arts District, being the festival’s hub, will also host a range of interesting programmes. From a public-space photography exhibition to classes and talks, the art community in the region can enter the orbit of all things creative during the festival.
Cinema Aljadidah, the district's outdoor movie theatre, will host film screenings until 22 February, delighting film enthusiasts in the region. For music lovers, the AlUla Music Hub offers several programmes including soundpainting workshops, daily jam sessions, live music performances, and open mic nights.
There is something for everyone at the AlUla Arts Festival this year, making it a must-visit if you’re in Saudi Arabia this month. Learn more
