Known globally for its innovative reinvention of theatrical live entertainment, Dragone’s imaginative creations play to sold-out venues the world over, receiving standing ovations night after night. For its latest ground-breaking project, the international cultural creation and experience design company debuted a world first in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Culture, TERHAL. The first production of its kind in the Kingdom, TERHAL is an original, live theatrical spectacular that celebrates the rich culture of Saudi Arabia, featuring acrobatics, stunts, aerial performance and dazzling special effects, and starring a combined cast of local Saudi artists and international collaborators from over 20 different countries.
The first Dragone creation to open since the passing of the company’s Founder and Artistic Director, Franco Dragone, TERHAL is a particularly special show for the organisation, with every team member striving to honour the Founder’s legacy in every aspect of the production. “Dragone’s work is rooted in the foundation of creating shows with social impact,” said Anna Robb, Dragone’s Chief Operating Officer. “It was Franco’s direction and wish for us to collaborate with Saudi artists. Seeing international artists perform side by side with local artists and watching them learn from and inspire each other demonstrates to me that this is more than just a show; it’s an evolution.”
The production ran from 2-19 March in a purpose-built venue in Diriyah. Speaking to TPiMEA after doors closed, Robb reflected on the importance of the project, which faced rigorous scrutiny from both an internal and external standpoint. “It was only natural for everybody to ask; Do we have the right people around the table to deliver a Dragone show without Franco Dragone? There was also pressure from the Ministry of Culture perspective,” she added. “We had a direct brief to represent Saudi culture authentically. If there’s one thing you don’t want to do when you come into a country, it’s appropriate the culture and be too cliché. Every country has its nuances and it’s vital to understand them if you’re going to build an effective cultural show. Luckily for us, the Ministry of Culture were extremely supportive in guiding us towards what was appropriate and what would resonate with a Saudi audience.”
Photos: Dragone
