Starting on Thursday, Expo 2020 Dubai's Al Wasl Plaza will feature a new show directed by Bafta-winning Indian filmmaker Shekhar Kapur with music by Oscar-winner AR Rahman.
Called Why? The Musical, the 45-minute show stars Australian theatre actress Shubshri Kandiah and Indian actor and comedian Jaaved Jaaferi as the leads and will feature more than 100 performers as well as stunning visuals projected on Al Wasl Dome, the world’s largest 360-degree projection screen.
“I feel blessed and honoured to be creating a musical spectacle in collaboration with Expo 2020 Dubai and AR Rahman. Why? The Musical celebrates diversity and inclusivity, as it takes audiences on a spectacular journey," said Kapur, who won a Bafta award for his 1998 film Elizabeth, when announcing the show in December.
What's the musical about?
Why? The Musical will tell the story of a young girl who sets off on a journey of discovery accompanied by a wise old man. Along the way, the pair will teach audiences about empathy towards the planet and inspire them to create a cleaner, safer and healthier world. It will "aim to stir visitors’ emotions and draw on a childhood thirst for knowledge", organisers said.
The show will feature eight original compositions by Rahman, who's been wowing Expo 2020 visitors with his all-woman Firdaus Orchestra. Lyrics to the songs have been written by Sohaila Kapur, Dana Dajani and Shivang. Oscar-winning audio mixer Resul Pookutty has designed the sound for the show.
Director Kapur had earlier described the show as "an anthem to our planet, to our Mother Earth".
“We invite you to join us in a journey of rediscovering your childhood and once again ask 'Why?'. Come dance and sing from the heart of Expo to yours," he said.
When is the show on?
Following its debut on Thursday, the musical will run four days a week, from Thursday to Sunday, until February 27. Shows begin at 8pm at Al Wasl Plaza.
Popular boy band Stray Kids show off their dance moves on the Jubilee Stage at Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Miaad Mahdi / Expo 2020 Dubai
Stray Kids performing during the K-Pop concert on the Jubilee Stage. Photo Miaad Mahdi / Expo 2020 Dubai
Sunmi performs during the K-pop concert in honour of South Korea's country day at Expo 2020 Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Sunmi was once a member of the girl group Wonder Girls but left in 2010 to pursue her studies before returning to a singing career. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Psy performs during the K-Pop concert on the Jubilee Stage. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
During his show, Psy announced that he is planning to release a new album this year. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Psy closes the event with a performance of his hit song 'Gangnam Style'. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
(G)I-dle perform at the K-pop concert in matching attire. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Golden Child show off their moves. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Crossover act Forestella take to the stage. Chris Whiteoak / The National
The members of (G)I-dle post on stage. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Fans enjoy the K-pop concert celebrating South Korea's country day at Expo. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Fans brave the rainy weather to enjoy the K-pop concert. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Quartet Forestella perform at the K-pop concert. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Daniel Akpeyi Defenders: Olaoluwa Aina, Abdullahi Shehu, Chidozie Awaziem, William Ekong, Leon Balogun, Kenneth Omeruo, Jamilu Collins, Semi Ajayi Midfielders: John Obi Mikel, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, John Ogu Forwards: Ahmed Musa, Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, Henry Onyekuru, Odion Ighalo, Alexander Iwobi, Samuel Kalu, Paul Onuachu, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze
On Standby: Theophilus Afelokhai, Bryan Idowu, Ikouwem Utin, Mikel Agu, Junior Ajayi, Valentine Ozornwafor
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