Latest news with #CandlelightConcerts
The National
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Adele tribute review: Is the Candlelight Concert series worth the hype?
Why would anyone attend an instrumental Adele concert? It's a fair question, considering her voice is the whole deal. It carries the drama, pain and a raw, lived-in power that turns even a break-up into an anthem. So, attending a gig without it already feels like a stretch – sort of like watching a film with the dialogue on mute. And yet, as part of the successful Candlelight Concert series, it works. Well, kind of. Their idea of reworking big pop songs without vocals and placing them in moody, candle-lit settings has taken off. Since its debut in culture centres in Madrid in 2019, Candlelight Concerts has travelled to more than 100 cities and made its Dubai debut in 2022. These gigs are less about performance and more about atmosphere. By doing that, they invite listeners to hear the songs differently and maybe even more closely. In its debut in Ras Al Khaimah – one of four planned shows covering the varied works of Coldplay, Abba and Vivaldi – the event takes place indoors, in a small ballroom at the Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert Resort. With the summer heat outside, this makes sense, and the atmosphere doesn't suffer. The organisers have worked with what they had. Candles are placed along the aisles and around the piano, even tucked into candelabras, while the audience sits all around in a circular set-up. It feels close and like everything is folding inward. By the time Italian pianist Aldo Dotto takes to the elevated stage, everyone has soaked up the mood. There's a stillness in the room. No phones up, no rustling, just quiet attention. At some points, it's hard to tell what to focus on more – the music itself or just the way it all feels in the room. It all blends, and that's part of the charm. Dotto takes on some of Adele's biggest songs and brings them down to size. Not in a lesser way, but in a more reflective one. Hello loses its weighty opening drama and instead comes off like a lullaby. The familiar piano hook is played so softly that it almost feels like it is being hummed under someone's breath. Skyfall makes the transition smoothly. It's a song already written with an orchestral framework, so hearing it solo doesn't strip it too bare. Instead, it gives a sense of hearing a rough sketch. Like something Adele might have worked with before the full production came in. The standout moment, though, is Make You Feel My Love. It's a Bob Dylan song, one Adele covered early in her career and kept mostly faithful. Dotto goes back to that simpler and original 2008 version. No frills, just the melody and a bit of restraint. The room gets even quieter, with a few audience members swaying along, some with eyes closed. That's the kind of communal moment Candlelight Concerts seems to aim for. Meryem Benkirane, senior project manager at Fever – the company behind the Candlelight series in the UAE and who has already staged concerts at Dubai's QE2 and Zabeel Theatre – says the idea isn't just about putting concerts in elegant spaces. It's about shifting the way people engage with live music. "At its core, Candlelight is about creating intimacy," she tells The National. "A lot of people feel a bit out of place at traditional classical concerts. The format, the venues, it can all feel too formal. So we asked – what happens if you take the same music and change how it's presented?" One of the answers was to keep things short. "Most of our shows are under an hour. You come in, you settle and you're done before it drags," she says. "It's also about offering a variety of programmes. We go from Vivaldi to Adele to Coldplay. That mix brings in a wider audience." As for bringing the concept to the UAE three years ago, Benkirane says the diversity of the population results in the kind of crowd ideal for such formats. "The audience here is curious. They want something different, not just the big arena shows. Ras Al Khaimah gives us space to try something a little different," she says. "Especially with a place like Al Wadi Desert Resort. It's not your usual venue, and that's what made it exciting." "People are looking for new ways to experience live music. We're not saying it has to replace anything else, but maybe this is just another way of doing it. Slower, more thoughtful. Something a little more human." Candlelight Concerts at the Ritz-Carlton, Wadi Desert continue with two tribute concerts: Antonio Vivaldi's Four Seasons and the music of Queen and Abba, both on September 27. A final concert dedicated to pianist Frederic Chopin takes place on December 20. Tickets start at Dh200, except for the Chopin concert, which is Dh150.
Emirates Woman
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
11 fabulous things to do this weekend: FIX's exclusive pop-up to a Labubu workshop
As the weekend approaches, Dubai offers an array of exclusive experiences—from floral-inspired cafés to adrenaline-fueled adventures and soulful wellness retreats. Here's your curated edit of must-try moments. A Floral Escape at Tania's Teahouse From June 9–15, immerse yourself in Peonymania, a limited-edition peony takeover at Tania's Teahouse in Dubai Hills. Sip on two bespoke beverages: the effervescent Pink Fizz Mocktail (cherry, strawberry, orgeat, citrus) or the soothing Restful Reishi & Strawberry Matcha. The first 20 guests to order receive a peony-shaped artisan candle; others enjoy a sweet card and 20% off Flowwow gifting. Offer: Limited edited pop-up where first 20 guests receive a peony-shaped candle; others get a sweet card and 20% off Flowwow gifting. Date: June 9–15 Location: Tania's Teahouse, Dubai Hills Mall Crème's Sweet Weekend at Dar Wasl View this post on Instagram A post shared by Crème UAE (@cremelondonuae) June 13–15, Crème at Dar Wasl hosts a weekend of gifting, free makeup sessions, and cookie indulgence. A chic stop for those craving style and sweetness. Offer: Free makeup sessions and sweet treats. Date: June 13–15 Location: Crème, Dar Wasl Charcoal Sketch Workshop at Al Safa Art & Design Library Unleash your creativity on June 15 (2–4 PM) in a dynamic charcoal sketching workshop. Experiment with texture, movement, and form in this intimate session (AED 250+VAT). Ideal for artists refining their craft. Offer: Hands-on workshop with expert guidance. Date & Time: June 15, 2–4 PM Location: Al Safa Art & Design Library Haya's Kitchen Meets Kave: A Palestinian Culinary Ode Now open at Kave, Alserkal Avenue, this collaboration is a love letter to Palestinian heritage. Think cinnamon-dusted Arabic bread, msakhan on taboon, and dishes meant to be savored slowly. Open weekdays (10 AM–7 PM) and weekends (11 AM–8 PM). Offer: Seasonal Palestinian dishes with nostalgic flavors. Timings: Weekdays 10 AM–7 PM; weekends 11 AM–8 PM (closed Mondays) Location: Kave, Warehouse 20, Alserkal Avenue Fix Dessert's Mystery Kunafa at Mall of the Emirates Kunafa enthusiasts, take note: Fix Dessert Chocolatier debuts a new flavor from June 13–15 at Mall of the Emirates. Details are under wraps—arrive early to taste the innovation. Offer: Exclusive new kunafa flavor launch. Date: June 13–15 Location: Fix Dessert Chocolatier, Mall of the Emirates Candlelight Concerts in the Desert On June 14, the Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert hosts Candlelight Concerts under the stars. Pianist Aldo Dotto performs tributes to Adele (7 PM) and Coldplay (9 PM) amid thousands of candles. Tickets: AED 200. Offer: Open-air classical tributes to Adele and Coldplay. Date & Time: June 14, 7 PM & 9 PM Location: Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah Labubu Customization Workshop at CULINRA June 16 (3–6 PM), adorn your Labubu figure with rhinestones and charms at this playful workshop (AED 259, includes a beverage and bites). Limited spots—ideal for collectors. Offer: Custom Labubu figure with materials provided. Date & Time: June 16, 3–6 PM Location: The Link, 24th floor Mediterranean Brunch Launch Starting June 14, indulge in a three-course Saturday brunch (1–5 PM) with seafood linguini, wagyu tenderloin, and decadent desserts. Packages from AED 350 (mocktails) to AED 550 (bubbly). Offer: Three-course brunch with premium beverage options. Date & Time: Every Saturday from June 14, 1–5 PM Location: Global Wellness Day at Samadhi x Banyan Tree June 14 brings a complimentary wellness retreat (4–6:30 PM) with vinyasa flow, deep stretch sessions, and nourishing snacks. Pre-register to secure your spot. Offer: Free yoga sessions and wellness goody bags. Date & Timings: June 14, 4–6:30 PM Location: Samadhi Wellness, Jumeirah 3 Summer Truffle Market at Scalini Dubai View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scalini Dubai (@scalinidubai) A seasonal pop-up that's all about the truffle. Scalini teams up with Casinetto and Umbria's San Pietro Pettine to host its Summer Truffle Market from June 14 to July 14. Browse truffle-infused products—honey, olive oil, salt, and whole black summer truffles—sourced straight from Italy. The experience kicks off on June 14 with a live pasta-making demo and intimate tasting menu led by Carlo Caporicci of San Pietro Pettine. Expect hand-rolled tagliolini, pillowy ravioli, and generous truffle shavings. Offer: Live truffle demo and tasting menu on June 14; retail items available until July 14. Date: June 14–July 14 (tasting event on June 14) Location: Scalini Dubai, Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach The Art of Sushi Making at Nobu Dubai View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nobu Dubai (@nobudubai) On June 15, Nobu Dubai invites guests to a masterclass in sushi-making. Learn the secrets of perfect nigiri and maki from Nobu's expert chefs, followed by a tasting of your creations. Limited to 12 participants. Offer: Sushi-making class with expert chefs. Date & Time: June 15, 12–2 PM Location: Nobu Dubai, Atlantis The Palm Whether you're chasing blooms, flavors, thrills, or tranquility, this weekend is a masterclass in curated living. Choose your moment—and make it unforgettable. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images & Feature Image: @thejoorryy
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Inside Charlie Levy's new Arizona concert venue — and who's playing first
Tucson's newest music venue, a converted monastery called La Rosa, announced its first wave of concerts and events ahead of its highly anticipated grand opening with Calexico the weekend of Oct. 17. With a mix of international icons, beloved locals and genre-defying performers, this initial lineup offers a first glimpse into the kind of entertainment La Rosa will bring to Tucson. There are rock shows, jazz shows, blues shows, Latin, metal, classical, country, world music, indie rock, EDM, swing, burlesque, EMO, flamenco, singer-songwriters and an ambient music legend. La Rosa finds former Hotel Congress entertainment director David Slutes (of the Sidewinders and Sand Rubies) joining forces with Charlie Levy, the longtime Phoenix concert promoter at Stateside Presents who changed the face and sound of downtown Phoenix with the opening of three great venues, The Van Buren, Crescent Ballroom and Valley Bar. The venue will open in the chapel of the beautifully restored historic Benedictine Monastery at 800 N. Country Club Road in Tucson on Friday, Oct. 10, with a La Gran Noche celebration featuring Tucson's Orkesta Mendoza, followed on Friday, Oct. 17, by the official grand opening weekend with Tucson legends Calexico. Other highlights among the first events announced include a talk with Carl Bernstein, DeVotchKa, Built to Spill, La Santa Cecilia, Tatiana Eva-Marie and Ladysmith Black Mambazo as well as Arizona favorites (Roger Clyne and The Peacemakers, Brian Lopez, Ryanhood, XIXA). There are themed events (Club Pride, Dolly Hoot, Candlelight Concerts), and genre showcases, from flamenco to emo to New Orleans jazz and indie shared a statement saying, 'We've dreamed of creating a home for music and performance that reflects the full range of Tucson's styles and performers… This first announcement is just a taste of what's to come, and we have a pile of exciting shows we will be announcing over the next couple of weeks.' La Rosa aims to become a new cultural anchor for Tucson, hosting everything from concerts to speaker series and community celebrations. Tickets for the announced shows will be available at Follow La Rosa on Instagram and Facebook for more announcements, artist features, and surprises on the way to October. These are the shows announced so far for La Rosa: Oct. 10 — La Gran Noche with Orkesta Mendoza. Oct. 17 — Grand Opening with Calexico. Oct. 19 — The White Buffalo. Oct. 23 — Tatiana Eva-Marie. Oct. 29 — Bitchin' Baja. Oct. 30 — Lizzy and the Triggerman. Oct. 31 — Halloween Ball. Nov. 1 — DeVotchKa. Nov. 4 — History as a Warning: Carl Bernstein on Watergate, Politics and the 2025 Election. Nov. 6 — Coco Montoya. Nov. 7 — EMO Brooklyn. Nov. 9 — LEISURE. Nov. 11 — Darrell Scott. Nov. 12 — Sun Kil Moon. Nov. 14 — YEBO! Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra, Pijama Piyama, Djents and Herm. Nov. 18 — Built To Spill. Nov. 22 — CLUB PRIDE. Nov. 26 — XIXA. Nov. 28 — Ryanhood. Dec. 5 — Omnom. Dec. 6 — Steve Roach. Dec. 11 — La Santa Cecilia. Dec. 13 — Sophia Rankin & The Sound. Dec. 26 — Brian Lopez. Dec. 27 — Live From Laurel Canyon (Celebrating the artists of Laurel Canyon (1965-1975) with music and stories. Jan. 3 — Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers. Jan. 13 — Tommy Castro. Feb. 8 — Tucson Flamenco Festival featuring world-class artists from Spain, New York and the Sonoran Desert. Feb. 14 — Lola Torch 20th Valentine's Burlesque. Feb. 20 — Ladysmith Black Mambazo. More: How Crescent Ballroom proved the doubters wrong and helped make downtown Phoenix vibrant Ed has covered pop music for The Republic since 2007, reviewing festivals and concerts, interviewing legends, covering the local scene and more. He did the same in Pittsburgh for more than a decade. Follow him on X and Instagram @edmasley and on Facebook as Ed Masley. Email him at This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona concert venue La Rosa opens soon. Everything to know
Hamilton Spectator
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
Stage set for Hamilton Arts Week performances
Hamilton Arts Week has returned for its 11th year with a new set of immersive performances, multimedia exhibits and artist discussions. 'Each year, we push the boundaries in terms of unconventional venues and bringing in an array of diverse performances and topics that maybe we haven't showcased in previous years,' said Megan Divecha, the program director with the Hamilton Arts Council, the art week host. On until June 12, the event features 95 performances, including 12 signature sets with sponsored backing to help reduce ticket prices. One of those sets is Resonate: Steel and Soul Experience, led by Hamilton native Luckystickz. The steelpan player and singer will lead the showcase, featuring a mixture of gospel, soul and jazz. 'It's going to be a night of not only music, but a night of impact,' he said. The roughly $21 ticket proceeds will go to The Tune In Foundation, a local non-profit aimed at supporting musical creativity in youth. The musician will sing and play the steelpan, which he started playing at 11 years old. 'It was a new instrument that was personal, that connected to my cultural background,' he said. The show will be held on Saturday, June 7 at The Westdale, at 1014 King St. W. in Hamilton . The venue will also again host the four-person group Sultans of String on Sunday, June 8. The event is pay what you can — ranging from $5 to $100 — to make attendance more accessible. The performance will be immersive, including slides played alongside the mostly instrumental music and the screening of two films. The group, with members from Aldershot to Toronto, said they are excited before the performance. 'We're doing what we're calling an immersive concert experience,' said band member Chris McKhool. Large screens behind the band will play footage of Luna the orca from the West Coast and Sable Island horses from the East Coast. The group will also perform live with a virtual Turkish string group from Istanbul. For more details on Hamilton Arts Week, go to . Here are some more arts and live music events happening in the next week: Candlelight Concerts is back at The Westdale Theatre on Friday, June 6 at 8:45 p.m. A Listeso String Quartet will perform for 60 minutes from superstar Taylor Swift's discography, including 'Shake It Off,' 'You Belong with Me,' and '1989 Medley.' Remaining tickets range from $42.50 to $73. The Westdale Theatre is located at 1014 King St. W., Hamilton . A Listeso String Quartet will also perform an Adele tribute on Friday, June 6 and Saturday, June 7. To buy tickets or for more details, go to . Oakville soul duo Yassin and Sean Terrio will play Mill Hardware for the first time on Friday, June 6, at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Burlington singer-songwriter Charissa and alt-country rock artist Elyse Aeryn will share the stage with the artists. Mills Hardware is at 95 King St. E., Hamilton . Tickets are $31 with fees and taxes. To buy tickets, go to . Iowa folk-pop singers River Glen and Kristina Castaneda will be at Ooey Gooey's on Tuesday, June 10 at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. The show is part of Glen's Iowa to Ontario Tour 2025. Orangeville's Emily Gilbart and St. Catharines' Brandon Agnew will open the show. Tickets are $15 or pay what you can. The wing spot is located at 107 George St., Hamilton . For more details or to buy tickets, go to . On Sunday, June 8, folkechestral flunk punk artists Ronley Teper and The Lipliners will be at The Staircase Theatre's The Bright Room. The show runs from 3 to 6 p.m. Improvised psychedelic folk duo will be a special guest. Tickets are $20 or pay what you can. For more details or to buy tickets, go to . The café at 328 James St. N. is hosting free live jazz nights every Friday. Enjoy live music on Friday, June 6. Each night will feature two sets: one at 7 p.m. and the other at 8:45 p.m. Happy Hour on tap beer is available from 4 to 6 p.m. For more information, go to . Cheyenne Bholla is a reporter at The Hamilton Spectator. cbholla@
CairoScene
11-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Candlelight Concerts Return to Jeddah With Tributes to Adele & Einaudi
This spring's series includes four live concerts under candlelight at The Ritz-Carlton and Levento Hall. Candlelight Concerts, the global music series known for setting classical and modern music against a backdrop of hundreds of flickering candles, is reigniting in Jeddah this spring with a lineup that blends Western pop, minimalist piano compositions, and Arabic instrumentals. The first event, titled 'Best of Western & Arabic Hits', kicks off on Thursday, April 24th at The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah, with two performances blending Arabic and Western compositions. Showtimes are set for 7 PM and 9 PM, with tickets starting at SAR 275. The second round takes place on Friday, May 16th at Levento Hall, beginning with 'A Tribute to Ludovico Einaudi' at 7 PM, followed by 'A Tribute to Adele' at 9 PM. The Einaudi performance will bring to life the Italian composer's minimalist piano works, known for their use in major films and streaming series, while the Adele tribute will reinterpret the singer's catalogue with string arrangements. Tickets for both shows begin at SAR 150. Guests attending the Ritz-Carlton concerts can also opt into an extended evening featuring curated dining experiences. The hotel is offering a candlelight dinner service with a menu that includes Middle Eastern favourites, international main courses, and specialty desserts.
