RIYADH: With the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, the French Embassy and the Alliance Francaise in Saudi Arabia recently organised a special performance combining symphonic music and sports.
The performance, titled “Rhapsodie Sportive,” took place at the Palace of Culture in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter. The show was conceived by Zahia Ziouani and featured the Divertimento Orchestra, which she founded in 1998.
The French-Algerian conductor said she wanted to show that classical music is still relevant.
“I am so fascinated by music that I want to be with the audience and show them that classical music is not the music of the past, but that we can combine modern and contemporary ways of dance and music,” she told Arab News.
“I want to be very creative on stage and I’m very keen to conduct my orchestra. I’ve always dreamed of it and now I can do it.”
She added that she was thrilled to have the opportunity to perform in the Kingdom.
“This show reflects the spirit of the Olympic Games and combines music with sport… Being here in Riyadh is a great symbol for me and I am very proud of it.”
The French ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ludovic Pouille, who will step down this year, initiated the event.
“I am very happy because it was an amazing show,” he said. “A mix of classical music, a French orchestra and French dancers and athletes from all kinds of sports, just a few weeks before the Olympic Games in Paris.
“I must say that I was impressed by the hospitality of the Saudis and the enthusiasm (we received) from all the events we organized. There is a cultural dialogue between France and Saudi Arabia. The opening of Saudi Arabia is very important, not only for the country but for the world.”
The programme included fencing, boxing, tennis, BMX and breakdancing, all accompanied by symphonic music from France, Spain, the UK, the US and around the world.