The Abu Dhabi Festival is returning for its 22nd edition from April 9 to 29. And resuming the headline programmes with an exceptional lineup of global musical talent, this event is something you wouldn’t want to miss. From legendary percussionists to award-winning pianists, you can expect astounding performances to take place throughout April at the New York University Abu Dhabi. So, here is the list of performances for the upcoming festival that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Lineup For 22nd Edition Of The Abu Dhabi Festival
1. Kodō
A renowned Japanese taiko drumming ensemble, they will be bringing their dynamic performance to Abu Dhabi for an exclusive Arab World Premiere. With the aim of delivering a thrilling artistic experience that transcends language and cultural boundaries, the ensemble is a master of taiko, which is a Japanese drum.
Where: The Red Theater, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 8-9
Timings: 7:30 PM
2. Yunchan Lim
This virtuoso pianist will set the stage on fire by playing the gold standard of works. Yes, you can expect Bach’s Goldberg Variations in an Arab World Premiere! The youngest-ever gold medallist at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2022, he is going to leave the audience enthralled with his performance.
Where: The Red Theater, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 11
Timings: 7:30 PM
3. Kuniko Kato
Regarded as one of the world’s foremost percussion virtuosos, she will be bringing her masterful artistry to the stage. With her flawless technique across both keyboard and percussion instruments, she is bound to steal the breath with her masterful performance.
Where: The Blue Hall, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 14
Timings: 7:30 PM
4. Katia & Marielle Labèque
The sibling piano duo will be performing an original and innovative musical programme. Famous for their impeccable synchronicity and electrifying energy, they have captivated audiences worldwide since an early age. Visitors can expect seamless blends of the mesmerising minimalism of Philip Glass with the rich impressionism of Maurice Ravel.
Where: The Red Theater, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 16
Timings: 7:30 PM
5. Korean National University Of Arts Symphony Orchestra
Making their Arab World Premiere at the Abu Dhabi Festival, this will be happening under the baton of Professor Chung Chi-Yong. Internationally acclaimed for their outstanding performances, they’re now headed to the UAE after captivating audiences in Germany, Russia, the United States, and China.
Where: The Red Theater, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 18 (Chi-Yong Chung │Jaewon Wee│Sang Hyeok Park) & April 20 (Jessica Pratt│ Javier Camarena│Toufic Maatouk)
Timings: 7:30 PM
6. Augustin Hadelich
Grammy Award-winning violinist Augustin Hadelich will be gracing the stage for the first time in the arab world. And he is going to leave the spectators awestruck with his masterful performance. It will feature works by Bach, Coleridge-Taylor, Ysaÿe, and David Lang
Where: The Red Theater, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 21
Timings: 7:30 PM
7. All Star Ballet Gala
This is bound to be a spellbinding performance that will feature talented dancers from the Royal Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, Bayerisches Staatsballett, and Stuttgart Ballet. Showcasing celebrated artists, like Elisa Badenes, Principal Dancer at Stuttgart Ballet, this will be one memorable performance.
Where: The Red Theater, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 22
Timings: 7:30 PM
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8. Unique Encounters With Rising Stars
Titled ‘Unique Encounters with Rising Stars,’ Vienna Philharmonic concertmaster Yamen Saadi will be returning to the Festival. As it happens, violist Sara Ferrández and cellists Kian Soltani and Pablo Ferrández will also be joining the talented musician on the stage.
Where: The Red Theater, The Arts Center, NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 26
Timings: 7:30 PM
9. Riley Mulherkar
Paying special tribute to the late musical legend, Quincy Jones, this will be performed by talented trumpeter Riley Mulherkar. Yes, he will be joined by his band, the brass quartet The Westerlies. A part of the UNESCO 2025 International Jazz Day celebrations, this will be commemorating his remarkable contributions and lasting influence on the music world.
Where: The Black Box, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
When: April 29
Timings: 7:30 PM
So, go ahead and make plans right away with your music-loving friends!
Cover Image Courtesy: Press Release