Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 02 July 2024: Abu Dhabi Festival proudly announces its latest co-production with Teatro Real and the Mérida International Classical Theatre Festival. The powerful opera Medea by Luigi Cherubini was staged at the breathtaking World Heritage Site of the Roman Theatre in Mérida, Spain, on June 27th and 29th.

Luigi Cherubini's tragic and rapturous masterpiece Medea is adapted from the classical Greek tragedy. A co-production of Teatro Real, Abu Dhabi Festival, and Mérida Festival, this new production enjoyed its world premiere at the opening of the 2023/2024 season of Teatro Real in Madrid, attended by Their Majesties, the King and Queen of Spain.

Returning for the Mérida International Classical Theatre Festival, this grand production, under the musical direction of Andrés Salado and featuring the Orquesta de Extremadura, brought Cherubini’s classic to life through the visionary direction and set design of Paco Azorín. Set in the ancient city of Corinth, the tragic Greek tale of emotion, revenge, and exile features the immolation of Medea, one of the most startling and visionary moments in the history of opera – a scene praised by Wagner and immortalised by Maria Callas.

The staging in Mérida marked a significant cultural collaboration between Abu Dhabi Festival, Teatro Real, and the Mérida International Classical Theater Festival.

Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), and Founder and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival, expressed, 'We are thrilled to collaborate once again with esteemed international institutions like Teatro Real and the Mérida International Classical Theatre Festival. This production of Medea exemplifies our commitment to bringing world-class performances to new audiences and fostering cultural dialogue.'

The opera’s distinguished creative team includes History & Mythology Consultant Pedro Sáenz Almeida, Costume Designer Ana Garay, Lighting Designer Pedro Yagüe, Audiovisual Designer Pedro Chamizo, and Movement Director Carlos Martos de la Vega. Together, they presented a visually and emotionally compelling rendition of this timeless tale of passion, betrayal, and revenge.

Paco Azorín, one of Europe’s most celebrated set designers, brought his extensive experience to this production. He has designed over 150 sets for opera, theatre, dance, and musical performances across prestigious venues in Europe. His innovative approach ensured Medea was a visually stunning and unforgettable experience for the audience.

Abu Dhabi Festival’s engagement in such international collaborations underscores its dedication to promoting cultural exchange and enhancing the global art scene. By co-producing Medea, Abu Dhabi Festival continues to honour its mission of nurturing artistic excellence and fostering a deeper appreciation of the performing arts.