First look: Inside the Abu Dhabi Children's Library

The children's library and theatre will open to the public on September 4

The opening date for the Abu Dhabi Children's Library and theatre is set for Wednesday, September 4, 2019. Courtesy Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The library and theatre will provide additional learning and performance spaces for the city and going forward will play a major role in Abu Dhabi’s programme of cultural events. Courtesy Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library is spread over three floors, with the 5,250 square metre facility divided into several age-appropriate, social spaces. Courtesy Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

Designed with inspiration from pop-up books in mind, the library boasts several three-dimensional learning and play spaces in which children can physically immerse themselves to become part of a story. Courtesy Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The library offerings include writing, storytelling and filmmaking activities to help young people master presentation and communication tools, which are key for success in the 21st century workspace. Courtesy Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Children's Library and theatre at Al Hosn's Cultural Foundation finally has an opening date. The new space will be open on Wednesday, September 4.

Spread over three floors, the 5,250 square metre facility is divided into several age-appropriate, social spaces. The library also boasts several three-dimensional learning and play spaces in which children can physically immerse themselves to become part of a story. It will also include writing, storytelling and filmmaking activities for children and teens.

Each floor has a different design concept reflecting the rich and diverse landscapes of the UAE. The area is expected to become a valuable resource for school groups, young people and families. It will also host year-round public programmes for children and their families. Stream (science, technology, reading, engineering, art and maths) programming, workshops and exhibitions will also be on hand.

Meanwhile, the Cultural Foundation’s renovated 900-seat theatre will showcase contemporary, popular and home-grown performing arts, including music, dance, and theatre, in the heart of Abu Dhabi.

Upcoming events include headline performances from Naseer Shamma and the 2350 BC Orchestra, One Hundred and One Nights by the Caracalla Dance Theatre, the "Artist of Arabs" Mohammed Abdo, and a special performance by Emirati pop star Mehad Hamad.

“The completion of its refurbishment marks a new chapter for the emirate’s cultural scene, and it is our hope that the addition of the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library and the renovation of the theatre will empower our society, through the tools of education, professional development and artistic expression, for many years to come,” said Mohamed Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

“In an environment that utilises edutainment and effective ways of learning, these two major new components will contribute greatly towards our mission of establishing the Al Hosn site as a significant cultural destination which engages residents and visitors alike.”

More information is available from www.alhosn.ae