More stories

  • in

    THE YEAR OF CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

    When Cirque du Soleil created its first permanent Las Vegas production with Mystère™ at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino in 1993, founder Guy Laliberté said his fledgling circus troupe wanted to “grow a flower in the desert.” Safe to say that flower became a bouquet even he couldn’t have imagined.
    This year, the world-renowned entertainment group will celebrate significant milestone anniversaries for three of its Las Vegas resident productions: Michael Jackson ONE™ at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino marking 10 years in June, “O™” at Bellagio Resort & Casino celebrating 25 years of aquatic brilliance in October and Mystère™, at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, the show that started it all, commemorating 30 years in December.
    “These three remarkable shows illustrate the creative diversity and staying power that has transcended through Cirque du Soleil since the company began,” said Eric Grilly, President, Resident Shows Division and Affiliate Shows Division at Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. “Each of these productions remain as vibrant, inspiring and popular as they did when they debuted, and that is a true testament both to the creators and the cast and crew who continue to dazzle audiences from around the world each night.”
    Bobby Baldwin, former senior executive with Mirage Resorts and MGM Resorts, was a key figure in first introducing Cirque du Soleil to Las Vegas and said the impact of that partnership has forever changed what visitors expect from Las Vegas entertainment.
    “When we began our partnership with Cirque du Soleil, we had great respect for the creative ambition of Guy Laliberté, Gilles Ste-Croix and Franco Dragone,” said Baldwin. “There was never a question they would create a special entertainment experience, even for Las Vegas, where the bar is quite high. What they did was immediately change the entertainment landscape of the city. And then Cirque du Soleil did it again. And then again. And I don’t doubt they will continue to do so for decades to come. They made history, and it’s gratifying to have been part of that.”ADVERTISEMENTAs part of the year-long celebration, Cirque du Soleil is offering one lucky person a once-in-a-lifetime all-inclusive VIP experience for two in Las Vegas. The “Big 30” sweepstakes winner and their guest will travel like a celebrity via first-class flight and stay in a luxury room at one of Las Vegas’ finest hotels. The winner will receive VIP treatment with exclusive backstage access to all six Las Vegas Cirque du Soleil shows, and be transported to and around the Las Vegas Strip in a luxurious limousine from the moment the plane lands until the extravaganza experience comes to an end. For more details and to enter the sweepstakes, click here.
    Setting the stage for Cirque du Soleil’s overwhelming success in Las Vegas, Mystère has been seen by over 17 million fans with more than 13,000 shows performed since its first performance in 1993. The original must-see Cirque du Soleil production pushes the boundaries of what dreams and artistry can achieve when fusing together high-energy acrobatics with evocative choreography.
    Since opening in 1998, “O” has performed over 11,000 performances featuring breathtaking acrobatics under, on and above the water creating an unparalleled experience that engages the audience’s imagination and sense of wonder. The unique production that has been seen by more than 18 million fans delivers an innovative display of spectacular acrobats and artistic swimmers, including Olympians who perform 60-foot-high dives into a 1.5 million-gallon pool, taking the show to new heights night after night.
    Inspired by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson ONE premiered in 2013 and has been seen by over five million guests. The electrifying production continues to stun fans through a blend of dynamic acrobatics, dance, mesmerizing visuals and a state-of-the-art surround-sound theater immersing audiences into Jackson’s iconic discography.
    Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9136851-cirque-du-soleil-celebrates-30-years-las-vegas/

    Older
    Goldwynn Resort & Residences Debuts on Cable Beach in The Bahamas

    Newer
    SPRING BREAK EXPECTED TO BE BUSIER THAN LAST YEAR, WITH SEARCHES UP 40% More

  • in

    The Rouen Armada, France. The world’s leading tall ship festival returns from 8 to 18 June 2023

    Some fifty tall ships from all over the world will be moored along the 7 kilometres of the Seine quay in Rouen for 10 days.
    Held every four years, the Rouen Armada is a unique international maritime event with 6 million visitors, more than 30 nationalities and nearly 7,000 sailors.A tourist festival in the heart of Normandy: From 8 to 18 June, the tall ships can be visited free of charge and everyone can attend numerous events including the sailors’ parade in the city centre, the sailors’ race, the “boat” race, street performances, concerts, fireworks, the grand parade and much more.
    A business destination: the Armada is also an opportunity for companies to rent the most prestigious sailing ships in the evening as venues for professional events.
    The economic impact of the Armada is estimated at 50 million euros for the Normandy region.
    Environmental protection: thanks to a charter signed with its partners and rigorous management of its commitments, the 2023 Armada will be an event with zero non-recycled waste and zero plastic pollution.ADVERTISEMENTAt the same time, the event will use its popularity to raise awareness about environmental issues related to oceans and rivers. First started in 2022, an annual scientific symposium is organised on World Oceans Day, 8 June, in partnership with the Ocean Institute of the Sorbonne University Alliance.
    A cultural event: culture is also in the spotlight for this edition under the patronage of Michel Bussi, a famous French author translated into 37 languages.
    The Rouen Armada is in essence a popular cultural event in the heart of Normandy, promoting maritime culture in the birthplace of Impressionism.
    There will be street artists performing shows with a connection to maritime history and the Armada will help inspire exclusive short stories.

    Older
    Emirates Takes Flight with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Milestone Demonstration

    Newer
    SOUTHWEST AIRLINES APPOINTS LAUREN WOODS TO SENIOR VP TECHNOLOGY AND CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER More

  • in

    OurAfrica.Travel Returns 20 – 24 February

    OurAfrica.Travel Returns 20 – 24 February. Now in its 4th year this virtual B2B tradeshow provides a platform for those selling the African and Indian Ocean Islands, to connect, collaborate and plan for the year ahead from the convenience of your home or office.Aimed at ensuring five successful days of connecting, the platform is open to both exhibitors and buyers from the 8th of February so they can maximise their time, networking and setting themselves up for success, prior to its’ official start date of the 20th February.
    “Hosting a virtual show of this nature allows for complete flexibility for both exhibitors and buyers while focusing on the purpose of the show in its purest form – to allow trade partners to have dedicated business-to-business meetings in a convenient and controlled manner” says Allie Hunt, co-owner of OurAfrica.Travel.
    “The importance of connection among travel-trade partners is another driving force of the show. We are blessed to have partners, without whose support the show would not be as successful, and we believe that it is in part due to these collaborations that the show has stood out since the start” says Storm Napier, co-owner of OurAfrica.Travel.

    Organisers of OurAfrica.Travel, Allie Hunt and Storm NapierADVERTISEMENTKicking off the 2023 trade show season, OurAfrica.Travel remains a hallmark event on the travel trade calendar. The OurAfrica.Travel team are expecting an exceptional turnout of trade partners who want to start the year by strengthening relationships and sharing what’s trending in the tourism space across the continent and islands.A sponsor of this year’s event is Wetu, a longtime believer that collaboration is what drives the travel industry. Leading with efficiency, Wetu has offered its support to the show since its inception – the two brands being very much aligned based on their belief that digital platforms remain an impactful and resourceful way for the travel industry to convert sales with up-to-date marketing material.
    Wetu CEO, Paul de Waal, believes opportunities like OurAfrica.Travel that connect trade partners and colleagues are essential if we are to grow tourism.
    “We belong to an industry that understands and thrives on collaboration. That connection has taken various forms over the past few years – returning somewhat to in-person connection, but still very much driven by digital connection due to its efficiency, cost and time saving attributes. We see Wetu as an enabler of that connection so partnering with a virtual show like OurAfrica.Travel is an instrumental way for us to deliver on that promise.”
    Both Wetu and OurAfrica.Travel are also proud members of ATTA® the voice of African and Indian Ocean Islands Tourism, which supports businesses in Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.

    Older
    Oxfordshire’s Move to Decarbonized Public Transport Gets a Boost with 159 New Electric Buses!

    Newer
    Lufthansa introduces pre-order option for fresh onboard meals starting Feb 2023 More

  • in

    Catch the Ferrari car parade at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi this Saturday

    Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is gearing up to host a Ferrari car parade, with more than 100 Ferrari cars set to cruise around the “World’s Leading Theme Park” on February 4th. Ferrari World has won the World Travel Awards category for World’s Leading Theme Park for the past 4 years, an incredible feat.
    Fans looking to find that Ferrari feeling can watch the exciting show and immerse in the various award-winning rides at the park, including family-friendly attractions and unique Ferrari-branded experiences that are bound to delight.

    Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of family-friendly rides and attractions. The park is located minutes away from Yas Waterworld, the world’s first and only Emirati-themed waterpark and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest indoor theme park as well as CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s ultimate adventure hub.
    For more information, please visit: www.ferrariworldabudhabi.comADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    FAIRFIELD BY MARRIOTT INVITES TRAVELERS TO DISCOVER RURAL JAPAN

    Newer
    Puerto Rico Reflects on 2022 as Strongest Year in Tourism History More

  • in

    Hershey’s Chocolate World Celebrates 50 Years of Fun

    In 2023, Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction is celebrating its milestone 50th anniversary with a full roster of exciting experiences, events, and a brand-new attraction, plus an official 50th birthday celebration on June 30, 2023.Over 117 million visitors have passed through Hershey’s Chocolate World’s doors since its official opening in 1973. For 50 years, families have delighted in the destination’s educational and entertaining attractions such as The Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, Create Your Own Candy Bar, Hershey Trolley Works, and Hershey’s Unwrapped. Join Hershey’s Chocolate World in 2023 to celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a variety of fun-filled, celebratory events including the Chocolate Sculpture Unveiling and Hershey’s Chocolate World Birthday Party, exclusive merch items, chocolate-y treats, and character meet and greets.
    “Reaching a milestone such as a 50th anniversary is a testament to the visitors who have passed through Hershey’s Chocolate World, and the employees who make every experience so delightful,” said Suzanne Jones, Vice President of The Hershey Experience. “Each guest who visits Hershey’s Chocolate World this year can expect lots of excitement as we lead up to the unveiling of our newest attraction and welcome guests to take part in our most treasured traditions and new events to celebrate.”
    The full slate of 50th Anniversary events include:
    Happy 50th Birthday to Us, and You! January – December, 2023
    Fans who were born in the year 1973 and visit Hershey’s Chocolate World at any time throughout the year can celebrate their birthday, too! Simply stop by the Ticketing desk at Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, PA, to receive a sweet treat – a classic Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar. Happy 50th!ADVERTISEMENT50th Anniversary Kick Off and Chocolate Sculpture Dedication – February 4, 2023
    During the 50th anniversary kick-off event and Chocolate Sculpture Dedication, guests will help to ring in the milestone year with activities including:
    Iconic characters Hersh, Kiss, Reese and friends will show off their new celebratory outfits in honor of the anniversary year.Jim Victor and Marie Pelton, PA-based food artists, will unveil 2023’s anniversary-themed Chocolate Sculpture, which is slated to be on display through Summer.The Bean to Bar parade, educating guests on the chocolate creation process along the way, will begin its exciting weekly cadence taking place every Saturday and Sunday throughout February at 1:30pm.Grand Opening of Hershey’s Chocolate World’s New Attraction – Summer, 2023
    The highly anticipated announcement of the new attraction to replace our fan-favorite 4D Chocolate Movie opens with a ribbon cutting ceremony and special access to the experience. As you await the sweet news, visit the 50th Anniversary Hub to keep up to date on the new attraction!
    Hershey’s Chocolate World Birthday Party – June 30, 2023
    Beginning at 8:30AM ET with a rededication ceremony of Hershey’s Chocolate World, guest speakers, the Bean to Bar Band, everyone’s favorite Candy Ambassadors, Hersh, Kiss, and Reese, and more will help to kick off the special day. Special activities include:
    Exclusive treats and experiences on property.A character meet and greet to receive collectible signatures from each beloved character.Milton Hershey Birthday Celebration – September 11, 2023
    Pay tribute to the man who started it all, Milton Hershey, for his birthday! Fans will enjoy an exclusive celebration and be able to collect their own Milton Hershey inspired mustache during this exciting event.
    2023 Hershey’s Chocolate House Unveiling – November 10, 2023
    The beloved holiday tradition returns—with a twist! Visit this year’s 50th anniversary-themed Hershey’s Chocolate House during the 2023 holiday season and find it on display through January 2024. In celebration of the Hershey’s Chocolate House, each year, The Hershey Company makes a volunteer support donation to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.
    Fans can also collect exclusive, limited-time-only 50th anniversary merchandise such as bags, mugs, shirts, and ornaments only available at the flagship location throughout 2023.
    Check out Hershey’s Chocolate World’s website and social channels for teasers of the new attraction, a special Birthday celebration countdown, and additional information on Hershey’s Chocolate World offerings!

    Older
    THE RITZ-CARLTON, GRAND CAYMAN CELEBRATES THE RETURN OF CAYMAN COOKOUT

    Newer
    Cruise Sales Strength Continues as Holland America Line Sees Biggest January Booking Week on Record More

  • in

    Sustainable Travel International announces second season of SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

    Sustainable Travel International has officially announced that they will be releasing a second season of their Sustainable Travel: Where Next? documentary series. The new season of the sustainable travel series is set to release in September 2023 on World Tourism Day.Sustainable Travel International is once again partnering with Zinc Communicate, a Zinc Media Group Company, to produce the series of short-form documentary films. The upcoming season of Sustainable Travel: Where Next? will highlight a new collection of stories about conservation, regeneration, innovation, inclusion, and empowerment in travel and tourism.
    The first season of the series debuted last September, consisting of 17 short-form documentary films, each spotlighting a different tourism destination or organization. All of the episodes can be streamed online for free at sustainabletravel.org/where-next.
    The new season of Sustainable Travel: Where Next? will take a similar approach, and the production team is currently on the lookout for groundbreaking initiatives and captivating sustainability stories to share. To mitigate the environmental impact of the film, Zinc Communicate will once again be partnering with Sustainable Travel International to offset emissions generated by the film production by investing in a portfolio of forestry, energy, and blue carbon projects.
    “We were overwhelmed by all of the positive feedback we’ve received about the documentary series, and that’s a great sign for what’s to come,” said Paloma Zapata, CEO of Sustainable Travel International. “We are in the midst of a pivotal moment for tourism as the industry is rapidly evolving. By sharing real-life examples in a succinct, immersive format, we believe that Sustainable Travel: Where Next? is a powerful vehicle to drive awareness and inspire sustainability action during this time of transformation.”
    To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how your destination or company can be featured in the series, please contact Adam Harrod at [email protected]ADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    ITB BERLIN 2023: TECHNOLOGY, TOURS & ACTIVITIES SEGMENT

    Newer
    It’s Time for Sri Lanka More

  • in

    Disneyland Resort Celebrates Disney100

    The Walt Disney Company marks its 100th anniversary in 2023, and the Disneyland Resort will celebrate the milestone with new experiences and entertainment, décor, specialty treats and more throughout the year, beginning Jan. 27, 2023.Disney100 celebrates Disney storytellers, creators and fans around the world who, together, spark the magic and wonder of Disney. This celebration will bring new experiences with beloved Disney characters along with heartwarming new stories to delight guests and audiences around the globe.While Disney Parks around the world will commemorate the 100th anniversary, the heart of the celebration is rooted at the Disneyland Resort. The festivities at The Happiest Place on Earth begin on Jan. 27 with the grand opening of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and the debut of all-new nighttime spectaculars by Disney Live Entertainment: “World of Color – ONE” and “Wondrous Journeys.” More magic will arrive throughout 2023, including the return of the “Magic Happens” parade on Feb. 24, reopening of Mickey’s Toontown on March 8 and new developments at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort coming later this year. Disneyland Resort cast members will be among the first to experience select offerings with special #DisneyCastLife opportunities.

    “We are excited to bring this milestone celebration to life right here at The Happiest Place on Earth,” said Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock. “For generations of families and fans around the world who have made Disney a part of their lives, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy all-new experiences with beloved Disney characters, our caring cast and our amazing storytelling throughout the year.”
    New attractions and entertainment celebrate Disney stories
    All-new experiences debuting on Jan. 27 immerse guests in beloved Disney stories and draw inspiration from the history of The Walt Disney Company.ADVERTISEMENTThe all-new, family-friendly attraction Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway makes its Disneyland Park debut. Inside the El CapiTOON Theater in Mickey’s Toontown, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway transports guests into the wacky and unpredictable cartoon world of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, where they board a train engineered by Goofy and embark on a zany, out-of-control adventure with surprising twists and turns.
    To experience Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, guests will be required to join the complimentary virtual queue*, which is accessible only via the Disneyland app.** Upon its grand opening, there will not be a standby line for this attraction. The virtual queue enrollment times will be twice daily, at 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. PT. More information on the virtual queue system is available at Disneyland.com. Guests may also get quicker entry to this attraction with the purchase of an individual Lightning Lane arrival window, subject to availability.

    “World of Color – ONE” at Disney California Adventure Park celebrates the storytelling legacy started by Walt Disney a century ago, illustrating how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. Featuring a new original song, “Start a Wave,” this new nighttime spectacular brings some of the most courageous, loving and inspiring characters to life in new ways. This is the first Disneyland Resort nighttime spectacular to feature characters, music and moments from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, the Avengers and Star Wars in the same production.
    Guests will be able to access viewing areas for “World of Color – ONE” through the virtual queue* system available only via the Disneyland app. Distribution for the complimentary virtual queue will begin at noon, daily, subject to availability. More information is available at Disneyland.com. If the virtual queue reaches capacity, guests can check in with a cast member at the Paradise Bay viewing area shortly before “World of Color – ONE” begins for walk-up viewing options. Joining the virtual queue is not required, but it is highly recommended as walk-up viewing options for each performance are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
    “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland Park features nods to every Walt Disney Animation Studios film over the last century and a new song, “It’s Wondrous.” Filled with artistry, music, storytelling and heart, the nighttime spectacular builds upon the park’s state-of-the-art projection effects to turn Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, the façade of “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America into an artist’s canvas. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” goes even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks.
    MagicBand+ builds another dimension of storytelling to “World of Color – ONE” and “Wondrous Journeys,” with dancing lights and vibrations synchronized to both spectaculars.

    A new exhibit, The Disney Gallery Presents: Disney 100 Years of Wonder, will be on display at Disneyland Park. Inspired by Walt’s vision for Disneyland to be where his films come to life in the real world, the exhibit pays tribute to Disney films that became Disneyland Resort attractions, park experiences that later inspired Disney films and the rich traditions they both share. Guests will see artwork created by original Disney animators for some of Walt’s early films, alongside artwork concepted by original Disney Imagineers to recreate those stories in the park – in addition to an animator’s desk, a model of a multi-plane camera and more.
    Disney100 offerings at The Happiest Place on Earth
    Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will be adorned in platinum-infused décor – including platinum statues and medallions scattered across the resort. Later in 2023, MagicBand+ will interact with and add more dazzle to select décor.
    Walt Disney’s original Sleeping Beauty Castle will be dressed in elegant platinum banners and bunting, accented by a magnificent cabochon, two majestic water fountains in the surrounding moat and a wishing star shining on the tower above. At Disneyland Park, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals will don new, sparkling outfits designed to reflect the optimism and creativity that are at the heart of everything Disney.
    Guests can savor a century of magic through more than a dozen specialty food and beverage items, such as the platinum trifle and old-fashioned cream soda, and novelties like the Disney100 Mickey Mouse sipper and platinum Mickey Mouse balloon bucket.
    Disney fans can also bring the magic home with commemorative Disney100 merchandise and collectibles released throughout the year, including the Disney100 Platinum Celebration Collection, special MagicBand+ designs, collectible medallions and pressed pennies.
    The Disney100 celebration extends to the Downtown Disney District with platinum décor, fun photo opportunities and special menu items at select dining locations.
    More magic to come in 2023
    The “Magic Happens” parade makes its highly anticipated return to Disneyland Park on Feb. 24. Led by Mickey Mouse and his pals, the daytime spectacular celebrates moments of magic from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films as they are brought to life with grand-scale floats, artistic costumes and an energetic musical score.
    Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will be joined by additional new experiences and returning favorites when the reimagined Mickey’s Toontown reopens on March 8, 2023. The beloved land will feature more play activities and attractions than ever before, in addition to grassy play spaces for guests of all ages to unwind. Interactive play areas such as CenTOONial Park, Goofy’s How-To-Play Yard and Donald’s Duck Pond create more opportunities for families and young children to play together inside Disneyland Park, and guests will be able to enjoy classics like Mickey’s House, Minnie’s House and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin once again.
    In the spring, guests are invited to experience seasonal offerings and returning fan-favorite events at the Disneyland Resort. Disney California Adventure Park is ringing in the Year of the Rabbit with the Lunar New Year celebration through Feb. 15, and the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival returns March 3 through April 25.
    Alongside the Disney100 anniversary celebration, the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will debut new developments later this year. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will become Pixar Place Hotel, which weaves the artistry of Pixar into a comfortable, contemporary setting. The Villas at Disneyland Hotel – a new, 344-room tower – will immerse guests in decades of animated classics through a blend of contemporary designs and timeless artworks inspired by Disney Legends.

    Older
    Holland America Line’s 2023 Alaska Cruisetours Included in Wave Offer for Free Upgrades etc

    Newer
    One&Only Cape Town Unveils Newly Refurbished Signature Suites More

  • in

    Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival set to launch its 11th annual edition on February 3rd

    The 11th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival (RAKFAF) officially opens to the public on Friday, February 3rd, 2023, at 9pm, at the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village – the historic home of the ancient Al Za’ab tribe and pearling village dating back to the 17th century.
    Established under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, this year’s festival will showcase the talent of more than 120 local and international artists from over 35 countries under the theme of Nature. The 11th edition of RAKFAF is presented by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), supported by partners including Stevin Rock LLC, RAK Ports, RAK Economic Zone, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, VOX Cinemas, RAK Transportation Authority, RAK Hospitality Holding, Accenture Song and MonViso.
    The 2023 theme pushes boundaries to display artists’ interpretations of nature conveyed through the senses emphasizing the creative minds of painters, sculptors, designers, filmmakers, and photographers to create an immersive experience for all.
    From art to heritage talks, pet-oriented events, thematic weekend programs, art workshops, musical performances, film screenings and much more, 2023 RAKFAF will engage the community through diverse cultural and creative experiences.
    Festival Curator and Art Director for RAKFAF, Alfio Tommasini says: “The perception of nature around us always starts from a journey that begins inside of ourselves. In the case of those who transform it into artistic forms, a personal sensibility is shared with us to stimulate our curiosity and show us the many possibilities of representing it. Ras Al Khaimah as a region itself is an enchanting desert that includes the rich heritage of the Al Hamra Heritage village – a site carved out of clay, sand and coral.  RAKFAF is a meaningful connecting point for global artists to come together, interact and showcase their unique art depicting nature in various forms.” ADVERTISEMENTCelebrating a new gastronomical adventure, RAKFAF is proud to host the first-ever Middle East culinary journey by Chef Paolo and Kelly Picarazzi from the award-winning Australian restaurant Antica Australis. Inspired by Ras Al Khaimah’s organic farms, and foraged natural flora, the team will curate a special four-course Italian/Emirati fusion menu. Cultural aficionados and food lovers can enjoy this once-in-a-life-time exclusive food and storytelling style of dining only for two days at the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village from February 10th-11th and is one that is not to be missed!

    The Festival will also host the Middle East premiere of The Chocolate War – a documentary by Miki Mistrati. The film will be followed by a panel discussion led by human rights lawyer, Terry Collingsworth, shedding light on the ethical sourcing of cocoa and production of chocolate. Attendees will also be able to enjoy other outdoor screenings of foreign film hosted by VOX Cinemas with films from the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Dubai, Embassy and Consulate General of France in UAE, and Institut Français.
    This year, RAKFAF will feature six special exhibitions in collaboration with their cultural partners including the Marinko Sudac Foundation, US Mission to the UAE, Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Abu Dhabi, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Dubai, Consulate General of France in Dubai, and FLICK Camera. To celebrate unity and diversity, each bayt (meaning ‘house’ in Arabic) will act as a dedicated space for these partners to interpret and define Nature in their own way.

    A key highlight of the festival is the Avant-garde artworks from Central and Eastern Europe presented by Croatian curator and art collector, Marinko Sudac as a part of the Marinko Sudac Foundation and the Gorgona Group. Themed ‘The Solitude of Thought’, the exhibition will include works from variety of artists including renowned featured artists, Marko Pogacnik and David Nez.
    A permanent installation created for the 2023 RAKFAF, Pogacnik’s ‘Portal of Peace’ represents his philosophical interpretation of the relationship between humans and the biosphere. This permanent installation is made possible by Stevin Rock LLC.

    Speaking ahead of next week’s opening, Suqrat bin Bisher, Director of the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival concludes, “We are extremely delighted to host the 11th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival reinforcing the presence of our Emirate at the heart of UAE’s art and cultural scene. This year’s festival inspired by our regional treasure, the Arabian Almond, challenges us to reconsider our own relationship with the natural environment, its influence on our lives and what can we do to preserve it for future generations. I’m proud to see the ingenuity of so many talented artists with their creative perceptions of nature through an array of modern art forms. We look forward to welcoming all visitors, locally and internationally, to this massive event”.
    For more information on the public-free Festival or to register for any of the workshops, activities, tours, film screenings, visit www.rakfinearts.ae

    Older
    Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Qatar Duty Free Announce a World First

    Newer
    Rixos Bab Al Bahr announces appointment of new GM More