As part of its Ramadan Series under the theme “Human Fraternity: Dignity and Hope”, with support from Lead Partner Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), the 18th edition of Abu Dhabi Festival (ADF), themed “The Future Starts Now”, presented Lebanese-AmericanGrammy-nominated singer and songwriter MayssaKaraa. For her performance, entitled “Doua’a” (Prayer), Karaa conveyed a message of hope and a belief in the deep connection between humans and religion, alongside a masterpiece from Sufi heritage and Eastern spiritual chanting. The magnificent performance was streamed online via the Festival’s digital platforms.
Karaa’s outstanding performance demonstrated her magnificent vocal range and presented a cross-cultural message, performing “Kun FaYakun”, written by Oscar- and Grammy-award-winner A. R. Rahman, and “Doua’a,” written by Lebanese poet Henri Zoghaib. Famed Jordanian violinist YarubSmarait collaborated on the musical arrangement forthe pieces.
Mayssa said, “I am delighted to cooperate once again with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Abu Dhabi Festival, as they play a major role in reducing the impact of the challenges we are facing due to the global pandemic, while conveying a message of hope and togetherness for a brighter future.”
“I would like to express my gratitude to Abu Dhabi Festival and its founder, Her Excellency Huda I.Alkhamis-Kanoo, for her vision and commitment to the development, support and empowerment of young talents and to advancing the arts and cultural scene in the region,” she added.
The Ramadan Series continues with “A Call for Love”, a repertoire of 16 chants by Sheikh Mahmoud Al Tohamy, a leading spiritual chanter in Egypt and the world, accompanied by Mohamed Tarek and Wael El Fashny, on 2 May at 9:30pm UAE time.
The Ramadan Series includes digital performances of over 25 songs and chants by bright Arab vocalists and creators, written by 11 poets and writers and performed by 8 chanters and singers, accompanied by 60 musicians.
Watch the Ramadan Series performances and get more information by following Abu Dhabi Festival on social media and visiting https://abudhabifestival.ae/programme/ramadan-series/.
The yearlong hybrid programme of the 18th Abu Dhabi Festival combines virtual and in-person performances, exhibitions and events by over 500 artists from more than 50 countries.
