Saudi Arabia has announced that it will present the world premiere of “Zarqa Al Yamama,” the “first ever grand opera produced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

The work will premiere in Riyadh in April 2024 and explores the legend of the pre-Islamic heroine. The opera, composed by Lee Bradshaw to a libretto by Saleh Zamanan, will be presented in the Arabic Language.

“I am very proud to have scripted this opera, as it introduces a new artistic and aesthetic perspective in the Kingdom and the broader region,” said Zamanan in an official press statement. “’Zarqa Al Yamama’ embodies a bloody and tearful tragedy depicting ancient history, and at the same time it symbolizes the sorrows of Arabs in today’s world. However, the production is not devoid of hope, and offers the promise of a bright and happy tomorrow.”

Headlining the work will be Dame Sarah Connolly. She is joined by Khayran Al Zahrani, Sawsan Albahiti and Reemaz Oqbi,  Clive Bayley, Amelia Wawrzon, Serena Farnocchia, Paride Cataldo, and George von Bergen.  Joining them will be the Dresdner Sinfoniker and the Czech Philharmonic Choir Brno.

Daniele Finzi Pasca directs the production.

The news comes weeks after the announcement that Saudi Arabia would be getting its first opera house.