Thikra: A Night of Remembrance Under AlUla's Stars

A Cultural Fusion in the Desert Canyon

The ancient oasis of AlUla, Saudi Arabia, witnessed the premiere of "Thikra: Night of Remembering" during the AlUla Arts Festival 2025. This mesmerizing site-specific performance, commissioned by Wadi AlFann, the Valley of the Arts, is a collaborative masterpiece by renowned choreographer Akram Khan and visual artist Manal AlDowayan.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Wadi AlFann's monumental cliffs, the performance unfolded on a circular stage under a canopy of stars. Audiences, seated on traditional Sadu weaved carpets, were transported to an imagined gathering, a poignant exploration of the past as a pathway to healing and transcendence.

A Symphony of Movement, Music, and Design

Fourteen dancers gracefully blended traditional Indian classical dance with contemporary rhythms and gestures inspired by the desert landscapes and ancient myths of AlUla. The original music score, composed by Aditya Prakash, featured contributions from Loulwa Al Sharif and local musicians from the AlUla Music Hub, adding a rich tapestry of sound to the performance.

AlDowayan, who represented Saudi Arabia at the 60th International Venice Biennale, designed the costumes, seamlessly weaving traditional craft techniques with contemporary aesthetics. Natural dyes and pigments reflecting the tonalities of AlUla's landscape further enhanced the visual narrative. Banners created in collaboration with Madrasat Addeera, AlUla's art and design centre, and local artisans, enriched the opening sequence.

"Thikra deepens my exploration of AlUla’s voices...It has been a privilege to collaborate with the AlUla community, who hold a special place in my heart," shared Manal AlDowayan.

A Celebration of Heritage and Community

Thikra pulsates with AlUla's commitment to engaging the local community. Workshops and training sessions led by the Akram Khan Company and Manal AlDowayan empowered young Saudi professionals. The musical composition incorporated recordings of local percussionists, and a procession of forty local individuals played a key role in welcoming guests to the performance.

"I felt compelled to uncover the layers of cultures that have passed through this landscape. The integration of the local community has been an incredibly meaningful experience with their voices embedded throughout the work," reflected Akram Khan.

From AlUla to the World Stage

Following its world premiere in AlUla, Thikra will embark on an international tour as the Akram Khan Company's major new production for 2025. Adapted for indoor performance, it will share the rich culture, heritage, and artistry of AlUla with audiences worldwide.

Nora Aldabal, Director of Arts and Creative Industries, Royal Commission for AlUla, emphasized, "This performance not only brings worldwide attention to AlUla’s unique landscape… but also highlights the invaluable contributions of local talent and craftsmanship."