Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, officially inaugurated the Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre on Monday. He also inaugurated the Waterfall, another new attraction adjacent to the amphitheatre, while attending the first screening of the film <em>Khorfakkan</em>, based on one of his books. The amphitheatre, a vast open-air venue that can accommodate up to 3,600 spectators, is a prominent addition to the cultural scene in Sharjah. It is located at the foot of Al Sayed mountain and overlooks the corniche. The semicircular space has a stone facade that includes 234 arches and 295 columns. The amphitheatre, constructed in an area spanning 37,000 square metres, also has a unique temperature control system that will allow for activities to be held all year round. The Waterfall, meanwhile, is situated inside a natural mountain cave that is 45 metres long and 11 metres wide. It has several openings that overlook a waterfall descending from the mountain. It houses a restaurant, cafe and service room, and features outdoor seating. It can be accessed from the amphitheatre by lifts, as well as a walkway. The Ruler of Sharjah has led efforts to unlock the potential of Khor Fakkan as a vibrant tourist attraction in recent years. In October, he inspected the development of a new heritage area encompassing a canal, hotel and traditional souq. Old markets have been restored, shops rejuvenated and visitors will soon be able to stay in boutique heritage accommodations in the town. During his visit on Monday, Sheikh Dr Sultan attended a screening of the historical drama <em>Khorfakkan, </em>based on his own book <em>Khorfakkan's Resistance Against the Portuguese Invasion of September 1507</em>. The film is set in the early 16th century and chronicles the resistance staged by local tribes against colonising Portuguese troops in what is today known as the Sharjah coastal city of Khor Fakkan. Produced by Sharjah Broadcasting Authority and developed by Get Go Films Ltd, the film boasts a seasoned list of cast and crew including stars Emirati actors Ahmed Al Jassmi, Khalifa Albhri and Abdullah Almaqbali. It is helmed by US and Irish filmmakers Ben Mole and Maurice Sweeney. <em>Khorfakkan </em>will release in cinemas on Thursday, December 17.
