Kuwait The Opera
Saturday, February 26, 2011 | 11 Comments 
I had no idea what to expect when we parked our car in Dasman just after sunset. The mood was festive and the crowds were gathering, but noone seemed to know when the 'show' was going to start. The signs were there with the preparation over the past week around the area - and the fact that the lights were turned off on the Gulf Road. This offered a perfect view for most of the people and removed a lot of cluttering light from the scene. What the organisors lacked in managing expectations, they made up for in execution and quality. What a show! What an elegant fun-for-all-ages event!
The clock superimposed on the towers suggested to us the show would start at 8pm. Children blew horns, lights were waved and everyone was in a great mood. The weather was just perfect, if a little cold for the children. The combined laser and firworks show told Kuwait's story from pearl-diving to discovery of oil and onto independance; this was followed by the Iraqi invasion, the war and the liberation. The story closed with the start of our Emir's reign - celebrting all three numbers that have been decorating Kuwait's streets and newspapers since late January: 50, 20 and 5.
The show was over an hour long and no expense was spared. The story was told beautifully and in a very unique way. My children asked me to tell them Kuwait's story as seen in the show and I was impressed at how it created this enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge. I loved how joy was portrayed in loud colours of the flag, parachuters with 'Kuwait' glowing above them, and jolly music. Sorrow and sadness were equally given their space on stage and conveyed to the viewer through lighting, sounds and symbols. It was superbly executed and presented to a world-class level. My wife described it as an opera... I can't think of a better word! Click here to watch the Kuwait TV coverage.
This evening is a reminder to all of us when we forget what blessings we have on this generous land. Happy Birthday Kuwait. Congratulations to all those who call you home.
Reader Comments (11)
Bu Yousef, your photographs are even better than the magnificent show! I was going WOW, WOW, WOW, but your photos are . . . . there isn't a word. I am speechless.
It was so stunning in person.
I was one of the thousands ooooohing and aaaaaahing :)
Gorgeous photos. Thank you for promptly posting them. Well done!
I shall be visiting your blog regularly*
Hello, Yousef
I am the Artistic director the of the show, together with all the people that made that show possible, we are so happy you all loved it so much. Your words and the reactions of your entire family are the best rewards we can get. It was so amazing for us to try to tell the story of your wonderful country and it's amazing people through videos, lights, lasers and fireworks. Thank you also for sharing those amazing pictures.
Happy Celebration Kuwait, long live your country.
Spectacular event and fantastic coverage by you- remarkable.
Intlxpatr
Thank you. You're too kind - as always.
Migrant Mind
It really was. We were making noise too :)
Thank you. I'm not usually this prompt but I wanted to do it before the 27th... I look forward to your future visits.
JJ
You (collectively) did a fantastic job. We had a great time and it's the talk of the town! Send me a quick email, I would love to know more about your company/organisation.
Appreciate your comment and thank you for the best wishes to Kuwait :)
Um Yousef
Thank you for dragging us out of the house!
Salam..
Um yousef...spectacular work...hats off...!! incredible idea.... wana say evrythng...!!! UR D BEST....!! love you :)
one question...can WE EXPECT SUMTHING LIKE THIS NEXT YEAR TOO? :D
Hey Yousef,
what is your email? Thanks for the reply...had a great time doing this job for the Kuwait people. There are rumors Kuwait want to do it more often ;-)
All the best
JJ
I've heard the same rumors... Hope they're true :)
m.abdullah@mangaf.net
Fabulous shots, you have a good eye
My son also had more questions about Kuwait after the fireworks!! Just shows that it was well done!!!
What an amazing display of fireworks! Sadly I didn't have a chance to see it! I heard it was world class and your pictures are amazing to display the beautiful fireworks! They really went all out!