AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 22 January 2024: Maraya, the innovative architectural gem nestled within the stunning Ashar Valley desert canyon, is emerging as the centre of classical music and opera in the region, having attracted an array of the world’s top performers ever since it opened.
At the extraordinary mirrored venue, an elegant fusion of modernity and traditional arts has played out through performances from artists such as Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, Chinese pianist Lang Lang, French violinist Renaud Capucon, and more.
Maraya’s remarkable line-up reflects its status as an incubator of creativity and its dedication to the protection of the arts, reinforcing AlUla’s growing repute as a go-to destination for music and culture enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled experience.
Rami AlMoallim, Vice President of Destination Management and Marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), said: “With a dynamic year-round calendar of events, AlUla has solidified its reputation as a thriving centre for music and entertainment. The vital genre of classical music too has found a warm welcome in AlUla, and it is only natural that Maraya has played host to some of the most revelatory performances in the region. Maraya and AlUla have been embraced wholeheartedly by classical music enthusiasts, promising a delightful experience for all who attend its many events.”
January has been a celebration of classical music, with two concerts that took audiences on an enthralling journey. Opéra national de Paris performed in AlUla for the first time on 17th January as part of the pre-opening programme for the upcoming Villa Hegra. An institution dedicated to arts and culture and set to open in 2026, Villa Hegra collaborated with the prestigious opera to present internationally acclaimed singers, dancers, and musicians, along with exquisite costumes, culminating in a captivating blend of French and Saudi cultural elements.
As part of the Winter at Tantora Festival and the AlUla Moments Concert Series, the Swiss Orchestra’s most accomplished musicians delivered a magical performance on 19th January at Maraya, featuring classical favourites, revived Swiss works, and transcendent genre-blending pieces.
Continuing the classical music extravaganza, legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli returns to AlUla thanks to popular demand for the sixth time to amaze visitors with another incredible performance on 26th January. With 15 solo studio albums, three greatest hits albums, and over 75 million record sales worldwide, Bocelli is one of the most enduring and successful artists in history.
The largest mirrored structure in the world, Maraya was conceptualised by award-winning Italian design team Giò Forma. The venue’s crowning feature, an 800 square meter window opening into the breathtaking natural surroundings, ensures an unparalleled concert experience.
Throughout the years, this state-of-the-art venue has welcomed a diverse array of sensational artists spanning various genres. However, its standing as the foremost classical music venue in northwest Arabia remains unchallenged, garnering global recognition in the process.
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