As the UAE gears up for its golden jubilee celebrations, the Sharjah National Day Celebrations Committee has announced an 11-day cultural extravaganza to mark the nation’s 50-year journey.
The cultural programmes will be staged across the emirate’s different regions from November 23 to December 3, Emirates News Agency WAM reported.
Catering to all age groups and nationalities, the festivities to mark the UAE’s 50th anniversary will be held across key tourist and cultural destinations – Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre, Sharjah National Park, Al Majaz Amphitheatre, Al Hisn Island in Dibba Al Hisn, Al Madam Municipality, Al Hamriyah Heritage Village, Kalba Corniche Park and Al Dhaid Heritage Village.
Celebrations Committee Chairman Khalid Al Midfa said, "The great achievements of our beloved country since its formation in 1971 have transformed it into a role model, which calls for celebrating it with utmost pride. As we look back on the UAE’s accomplishments, we will be motivated to work harder to strengthen our nation’s position as a global leader and realise our leadership’s vision for the next 50 years.
"Our 50th National Day celebrations will offer a variety of entertainment and cultural activities for all age groups and nationalities. The UAE is a role model in driving sustainable development and improving the quality of life of its people."
The inauguration in the Eastern enclave on November 23 will begin with a range of activities, including traditional music and dance shows. A hot-air balloon, the balloon of the 'UAE President', will fly across the ancient city, while roaming performances by musicians, artists and dancers will turn the streets and squares into theatrical stages. Residents and visitors can also look forward to live music concerts, acrobatic shows and theatre performances.
Visitors and residents of Al Madam city can enjoy musical shows and poetry sessions on November 25, delivered by prominent artists and classical Arabic poets. The audience can also compete to win prizes for 'best video clip about Al Madam'.
The heritage village of Al Hamriyah will bring Emirati maritime heritage to life through a range of activities, including educational and creative workshops, musical shows and 'Nabati' poetry sessions.
The same day, a national march will be held from the city centre to the UAE flagpole situated in Al Hisn Island. The activities in the eastern town include an operetta, a performance by Omani singer Abdullah Al Wasmi, and celebrations of the country’s history and accomplishments.
Classic car and bike enthusiasts can enjoy Kalba Corniche Park’s classic car and bike show the next day. It will showcase several rare cars and motorcycles. A fireworks display will be followed by Emirati folk songs performed by traditional Ayala performers celebrating the country’s accomplishments.
The Sharjah National Park has charted out a programme with games, entertainment and traditional foods from November 29 to December 3. With more than 20 events planned, the audience can enjoy tours, folk dances, competitions and lucky draws, as well as traditional food and games.
Visitors and residents of Al Dhaid city will have the opportunity to explore the beauty of Arabic poetry through a series of Emirati and classical Arabic poetry sessions and traditional music shows and competitions from November 29 to December 1.
Leading Emirati vocalists Fayez Al Saeed, Balqees and Hussain Al Jassmi are set to entertain their fans with special performances. Al Saeed and Balqees will perform at a joint concert on December 1 at the Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre, while Al Jassmi will entertain audiences in his trademark style at Al Majaz Amphitheatre, backed by Faisal Al Jasim, Mohammed Al Menhali, and Almas, on December 3.
Source: Trade Arabia