Ras Al Khaimah: More than 600 dancers, actors, singers and poets on Thursday performed a musical on Thursday evening marking the UAE’s 45 years as a nation.
The musical, entitled ‘Fakhrak Ya Watan’ (Nation’s Pride), showcased the country’s history through 15 different scenes.
According to organisers, the show was the largest musical produced by Emiratis — who made up more than 90 per cent of the cast and crew — in the country’s history.
Among the popular Emirati artists and singers performing at the show were Eida Al Menhali, Fouad Abdul Wahid and prominent actors Samira Ahmad and Habib Ghuloom.
One of the show’s writers, Ali Al Khawar, said, “Writing for Fakhrak Ya Watan was indeed a great honour.
“On this occasion, we see the pride of Emiratis in their country and the country’s pride in its people.”
At least 200 girls from schools across the emirate also performed in the musical.
Much of the show’s music was arranged by Khalid Nasser, an Emirati composer.
Big beats
“I sought to blend different Emirati arts and beats by adding some special touches when it came to drum beats and percussion, which in turn created a new sound that I was sure would captivate the audience while remaining recognisable as an Emirati beat,” Nasser said.
“This was very important as this patriotic production fell on an occasion that is very near and dear to our hearts as Emiratis.”
Obaid Ali, the director of choreography, called the event “the least we can do to celebrate this special occasion, considering everything the UAE has given us”.
Taking place at a purpose-built venue to seat 10,000 spectators, the musical was accompanied by lightshows and projected on ten giant screens.
The musical was also be the first Emirati show to be recorded with a 360 degree camera, making it available to view in virtual reality.
A fireworks display and a special tribute extended to the founding fathers and rulers of all emirates took place alongside the show.
The event was organised by UAE-based events management firm Lighthouse Productions, for Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism board.
