Oman discovers that 'The Beautiful Has Come'

An enthralling show blending fashion, music, culture and poetry will be staged in Muscat's Al Bustan Palace Hotel today as part of the Muscat festival.

Titled "The Beautiful Has Come", the show is inspired by the rich heritage of the Middle East and features creations of the Iraqi designer Niran Samarai, who specialises in reworking ancient classics for a contemporary look.

"I modernise ancient Arabian styles," Samarai told Gulf News. "This is an unique show where I have tried to weave in historical, artistic and cultural elements into women's fashion. It is devoted to the ancient queens of Arabia like Nefertiti (after whom the show is named – Nefertiti translates into the beautiful has come), Balquees, Cleopatra and Ashtar – women who have inspired me as symbols of authority, beauty and elegance in their time. I will exhibit 120 costumes."

Models from Egypt, Lebanon and Oman will catwalk to music, specially composed for the occasion by Oudh player and music composer Naseer Shamma. "Music is vital to a show like this," said Samarai. "Which is why every outfit is complemented by period music.

Authentic

"Ensembles in vogue during the pre-Islamic and Islamic era have been included to make it historically authentic. I do not want this to be pigeonholed as a fashion show – it is a show that also highlights fine arts like poetry, music and calligraphy. I want this to reflect the true essence of beauty."

The narrative has been written by Farouk Shoosha, an eminent wordsmith and Egyptian TV commentator and will be emceed by Salwa Jarrah of the BBC (Arabic) radio. Choreography is by Nabeel Hallogi.

"I am very proud I belong to this heritage, a cradle of civilisation," explained a spirited Samarai. "It is my muse and this special bond with Arabia gives me the support to do all what I am doing now."

The two-hour show will be presided over by the Minister of National Heritage and Culture Sayyid Faisal bin Ali Al Said. Tickets are priced at OMR20 and available at select outlets in the city. After Muscat, the show winds through the region moving to Cairo, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and a "few other places. We have some interesting plans," smiled Samarai.