A Global Stage: The World’s Finest Artists at NYU Abu Dhabi

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The Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 is an experience that simply cannot be missed. Get ready to be enthralled by this year's roster of Arab World Premieres, which combines breathtaking craftsmanship from around the world with innovative innovation and classical brilliance. Each concert promises a once-in-a-lifetime evening of sheer enchantment and is held at world-class venues at New York University Abu Dhabi.

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Sibling Piano Duo – Where Fairy Tales Meet Fearless Innovation

Kicking off the festival is an electrifying recital by an extraordinary sibling piano duo who are redefining modern classical music. Known for their fearless approach and deep musical chemistry, their program is a whimsical yet profound journey through storytelling and imagination. The centerpiece? A double homage to Jean Cocteau, with Philip Glass’s La Belle et la Bête and Les Enfants Terribles, framed by the delicate magic of Ravel’s Mother Goose. Expect daring, originality, and a sprinkle of fairytale dust.

When & Where: April 2025, 7:30 PM – Red Theater, NYU Abu Dhabi

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Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra – East Meets West

Under the guidance of Chi-Yong Chung, Korea's leading young orchestra performs a colorful blend of Korean traditions and Western classics. Their performance begins with a passage from Geon-yong Lee's Princess Bari, which weaves ancient mythology into contemporary form. Then let Brahms and Tchaikovsky sweep you off your feet.

When & Where: April 18, 2025, 7:30 PM – Red Theater, NYU Abu Dhabi

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Jessica Pratt & Javier Camarena – A Vocal Gala of Operatic Dreams

Calling all operaphiles! The world’s two most celebrated opera singers—soprano Jessica Pratt and tenor Javier Camarena—perform in a spectacular gala concert. Accompanied by the Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra and conductor Toufic Maatouk, the pair will present brilliant operatic arias and duets by Bellini, Donizetti, Rossini, and others.

When & Where: April 20, 2025, 7:30 PM – Red Theater, NYU Abu Dhabi

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Augustin Hadelich – A Violin Virtuoso Like No Other

Grammy-winning violinist Augustin Hadelich makes his Arab World Premiere with a solo recital that blends masterful technique and emotional depth. With works by Bach, Coleridge-Taylor, Ysaÿe, and David Lang, this is an intimate concert that will linger in your heart long after the final note.

When & Where: April 21, 2025, 7:30 PM – Blue Hall, NYU Abu Dhabi

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All-Star Ballet Gala – A Night of Global Ballet Greats

Get swept off your feet by the world’s top ballet dancers in a glittering gala performance. Featuring Étoiles and principals from the Opéra National de Paris, Bayerisches Staatsballett, Stuttgart Ballet, and the English National Ballet, this evening blends classical elegance with modern mastery.

When & Where: April 22, 2025, 7:30 PM – Red Theater, NYU Abu Dhabi

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Unique Encounters – Rising Stars, Timeless Artistry

This performance brings together a dazzling lineup of young masters. Violinist Yamen Saadi, violist Sara Ferrández, and cellists Kian Soltani and Pablo Ferrández unite for a chamber music showcase brimming with passion and personality. These prodigies are redefining what classical music can be.

When & Where: April 26, 2025, 7:30 PM – Red Theater, NYU Abu Dhabi

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Riley Mulherkar – Jazz Meets Modern Magic

Riley Mulherkar, regarded as an adventurous trumpet player with a bold sound and artistic activist work, closes out the festival. His unique blending of jazz, folk, and classical will provide a fresh, feel-good vibe to the Black Box - where New York cool meets Abu Dhabi elegance.

When & Where: April 29, 2025, 7:30 PM – Black Box, NYU Abu Dhabi

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Don’t Miss This Musical Moment

Everyone can find something to remember at the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025, regardless of whether they are ardent classical fans, jazz aficionados, or inquisitive newcomers. This is your front-row seat to the performance of the future, with world premieres, once-in-a-lifetime partnerships, and some of the best talent from across the world.

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Pro Tip: Seats are limited, so grab your tickets early—this festival is set to be the cultural heartbeat of the spring!

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