Saudi Aramco hosts cultural fiesta

Nasser Shamma Dhahran - Arabstoday Saudi Aramco is hosting a nine-day Eid festival, beginning from Wednesday, with a variety of cultural, educational and entertainment programs as part of the oil giant’s social responsibility. During the cultural fest, there is to be a fusion of the Eastern music with the Western music with famous Iraqi musician Naseer Shamma and Spanish guitarist Carlos Pinana treating the crowds to a unique combo on Thursday. Shamma, one of the greatest oud players, will be presenting his expanded musical range of the instrument with a distinct tonality, while Pinana a classical guitarist and an exponent of the flamenco, would lend a unique timbre to the proceedings. The fusion is being billed as a “cultural dialogue” with the music from these two greats, transcending all. Also the arts and cultural societies in Al-Ahsa and Dammam will present two dramas, produced by Nouh Al-Jamaan and Oqail Al-Khamees, organizers said. A number of Chinese folklore dances will also be staged. An Islamic art show displaying more than 200 paintings of 120 Saudi artists would be one of the major attractions. The Saudi artists will also conduct workshops on the sidelines of the event for those interested in different kinds of paintings and art works. A heritage village will be staged during the festivities when visitors will be able to see a variety of traditional professions and handicrafts. “Oasis for Children is another important activity aimed at providing edutainment for children,” one official said, adding that the program would help children learn many things with leisure and develop their personality and intellectual capabilities. “Secure House” is another activity that enables visitors to learn many things to ensure safety inside their homes and how to avoid potential dangers. It will be accompanied by a workshop on health safety. Organizers have arranged a number of interesting programs for children, including screening of educational films, staging of dramas involving famous cartoon characters, songs and scientific quiz. Another musical event would be held on Sunday for young men and women, the organizers said. On Sept. 7 and 8 a variety of Saudi folk dances such as Allaiwa, Samri, Aradha and Khamari will be staged.