Abu Dhabi aims to fortify its unique heritage with the launch of the annual historic celebration, the Qasr Al Hosn Festival next month.
Held under the patronage of HH General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the festival takes place at the capital’s oldest surviving structure – the Qasr Al Hosn Fort. Dating back to the second half of the 18th century, this historic building will play host to a wide array of programmes and initiatives celebrating Abu Dhabi’s culture and history.
For the first time in years, the Qasr Al Hosn Festival will allow visitors to explore the historic fort as it undergoes renovation. The interior foyer will be partially open to festival-goer’s with guided tours. In addition visitors will be able to visit the historic National Consultative Council Chamber, where numerous important historical decisions were made.
Live performances, cultural activities and a public exhibition will also be on offer at the festival, which is set to showcase the regional debut of Cavalia at Qasr Al Hosn. The equestrian stage show created by Cirque du Soleil co-founder Normand Latourelle is a multi-disciplinary production featuring more than 40 highly trained horses performing alongside performers and musicians.
“The public programme of this year’s Qasr Al Hosn Festival embraces both tangible and intangible heritage. The festival is a key part to the preservation of architectural and archaeological assets as well as to the development of visual and performing arts, literature and poetry to celebrate the Emirati identity,” said HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA).
Organised by TCA, the festival will run from 20th February to 1st March. For more information visit:
www.qasralhosnfestival.ae
