Sharjah: The story of Islam unfolded yesterday in the form of a spectacular theatrical performance by some of the Arab world’s most renowned artists.
The Cluster of Lights, took the audience back thousands of years with the help of high-tech lights, sound, lasers and projectors to where Islamic historical events, such as the battle of Badr, occurred.
The event, which is considered one of the largest theatrical and musical productions in the UAE, took place at the grand opening of the amphitheatre at Al Majaz Island on Sunday.
The Clusters of Light kicked off the start of the celebrations of Sharjah Capital of Islamic Culture (SICC) 2014, and was inaugurated by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
The performance, which was written by the Saudi poet Dr Abdul Rahman Al Ashmawi and composed by the Bahraini artist Khalid Al Shaikh was brought to life by four Arab stars — Hussain Al Jasmi, Lotfi Bouchnak, Ali Al Hajjar, and Mohammad Assaf.
The 200 performers and the oratorio helped enhance the performance and promote its objective, which is to spread the values of Islam and clarify its message of tolerance. This was done by depicting in chronological order the series of events that led to the spread of Islam from the birth of the Prophet to his death.
“Hussain Al Jasmi’s performance was my favourite,” said Sara Al Khatib. “His voice was so pure and his pronunciation was clear, it really helped elevate the performance and get the message of the scenes across.”
Hamad Yousuf, on the other hand, thought Arab Idol winner Assaf’s performance was the best. “I have been a fan of him ever since he was on the show. The only reason I attended was to see him perform and I was not disappointed,” he said.
Singer Ali Al Hajjar’s performance was admired the most by Sharjah resident Irtifaa Jameel. “His voice and his acting skills were truly amazing. As a Palestinian I thought that I would like Assaf’s performance, but it was Hajjar’s that blew me away.”
The Cluster of Lights performances will take place on March 30 and 31, April 1 and 3 at 8pm at the Al Majaz amphitheatre. The Dh120 million Roman-style amphitheatre is the official venue for the SICC 2014 celebrations and other international cultural and art events.
The open-air theatre covers an area of 7,238 square metres and can accommodate up to 4,500 people.
