will perform an eclectic repertoire of classical and contemporary music to suit all tastes and will also feature UK singing sensation Cara-Jane Roberts


and local artist Melanie Roberts.

Conductor and artistic director Philip Maier is a firm believer in the need for the UAE to have its own world renowned orchestra and sees building one locally as the best way to start. “We need to add to and build the cultural foundations of Dubai and the UAE and invest in its musical and cultural heritage as well as its economic vision. The role of this orchestra culturally, is to musically reflect the myriad nationalities that live together in the UAE”, says Maier.

Players of all nationalities who reside in the UAE make up this vibrant orchestra – the first locally based Philharmonic Orchestra - and travel to weekly rehearsals in Dubai and all over the emirates to perform in small concerts and corporate bookings to huge acclaim. “At each performance we do, people are overwhelmed by the diversity of the repertoire and immediately ask when they can see another performance by the Orchestra. What grew from small concerts we called ‘City Serenades’ has grown into something much bigger and quite wonderful”, comments Maier. “The potential for further growth is enormous! We are also delighted to perform for the first time to Dubai’s public for free in the wonderful Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (DUCTAC) which presents a world-class performance facility. The Dubai Orchestra is looking forward to a long-term partnership with DUCTAC. Every great country in the world has its own orchestra of which to be proud”, says Maier. “Why should Dubai not have the same? My aim is to eventually form a full time professional Dubai Philharmonic Orchestra that is resident in the UAE and can perform record,

accompany international artists who come to Dubai to perform, and in turn, act as a cultural ambassador to the UAE by performing internationally”.

Marina Home Interiors have demonstrated their commitment to Dubai’s cultural development in becoming the main sponsors of the Dubai Philharmonic Orchestra. “Marina’s style is a reflection of diverse cultures which draw inspiration from the ancient history of diverse societies. We are pleased to be associated with a cause that shares our passion for art and culture. Performances of this type keep traditions alive and help build a cultural and musical legacy which passes on from one generation to another”, comments Kurshid Vakil, Executive Director Marina Home Interiors.

The Dubai Symphonic Pops - ‘From Mozart To Movies’ will take place at the Dubai Community Arts & Theatre Centre DUCTAC on top of the Mall of the Emirates on Saturday December 16th at 8 pm and Sunday, December 17th at 7 pm. Entry is free to the public but seat reservation is essential by phoning Dubai 04 3414 777 or email boxoffice@ductac.org or in person at the Dubai Community Arts & Theatre Centre, MOE, during box office hours 9am- 10 pm.

For more information on the Orchestra, please log on onto www.dubaiorchestra.com
or email philipp@uaephilharmonic.com

The Dubai Symphonic Pops are presented by Marina Home Interiors, Emirates Today, Dubai Eye 103.8 and DUCTAC Theatre and supported by tmh - The Media House and Creativeforce Dubai.