Sharjah: A captivating operetta titled The Jubilee of Pride marked the start of the celebrations of the UAE’s 50th National Day at Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre in Sharjah on Tuesday.
With great fervour and joy, the UAE community marked their sense of belonging and pride in the homeland as they enjoyed a range of cultural performances showcased at the event, organised by the Sharjah National Day Celebrations Committee
The Jubilee of Pride began with a scene of a father explaining the meaning of the word ‘jubilee’ to his young daughter. The operetta featured a fantastic rendition of the poems of Emirati poet Maryam Al Naqbi by Fayez Al Saeed, Walid Al Jassem and Faisal Al Jassem while a group of female students from Abdullah bin Al Mubarak school in Khor Fakkan, performed a graceful dance in the background.
Vibrant Emirati folk art
The Al Mazyoud band presented a vibrant repertoire of heritage folk shows, including Al Azi, Al Harbiya and Al Ayla while Emirati poet Daoud Al Shehi recited a poem expressing his love of the homeland.
Hamid Al Thahiri wowed the audience with an amazing laser show and displayed his prowess in the artform by lighting up the venue with portraits of the rulers of the UAE. Mowafaq Al Ameri captivated the audience with his mastery of both the Al Oud and the violin.
International celebration
The spirit of tolerance and cooperation that exists in the UAE was evident by the presence of several bands from different countries participating in the jubilee celebrations. A Lebanese folk ensemble showcased their local heritage through beautiful dances and performances, which was followed by a Russian folk performance while the Iraqi ‘Al Shama’el band’ wowed the audience with amazing songs.
Leading country
Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, chairman of the Sharjah National Day Celebrations Committee, said: “Today, we look back on the accomplishments and ambitious vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his brothers, the Rulers of the different emirates, that led to the formation of this country that has since founding, been at the forefront of socioeconomic prosperity in the region and beyond.”
“Over the past 50 years, the UAE has become one of the leading countries in various economic sectors and that he looked forward to the journey of the next 50 years as the country embarks on its next phase of growth,” he added.
He pointed out that the stunning Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre was a testament of the efforts made by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to craft a holistic development journey encompassing all sectors.
Tribute to men of women of UAE
Rashid Khamis Al Naqbi, chairman of Khor Fakkan Municipal Council, added: “The jubilee celebrations is a tribute to the men and women of the UAE who accomplished great feats. The rise in number of international events held in the country is a clear indicator of the UAE’s global stature and prominence.”
He also thanked is His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, “for his continuous efforts to develop all cities across the emirate and transform them into regional and international tourist destinations”.
