Algarabía: A Transcultural Dialogue of Dance, Music and Poetry Comes to Abu Dhabi

A remarkable convergence of artistic traditions awaits audiences at Abu Dhabi Festival, as the acclaimed production Algarabía makes its Arab world premiere at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on Thursday, 26 November 2026. Born from a sold-out run in Spain, this vibrant celebration of cultural dialogue brings together the expressive sophistication of flamenco with the profound artistic heritage of the Arab world, creating an immersive theatrical experience that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
At the heart of Algarabía lies the transformative power of movement and artistic expression. Award-winning flamenco dancer and choreographer Jesús Carmona joins acclaimed dancer Lucía Campillo, bringing to the stage the electrifying footwork, expressive artistry and unmistakable spirit that defines the flamenco tradition. Their performances form the visceral core of this extraordinary production, inviting audiences into the physicality and passion that connects these two rich cultural narratives.
The artistic dialogue extends far beyond dance, encompassing the full spectrum of performative arts. Cynthya Karam, celebrated star of the successful Arabic production of Chicago, appears alongside acclaimed actor, writer and theatre icon Rafic Ali Ahmad. Together, they infuse the production with the emotion and poetry of the Arab world, creating a layered narrative that speaks to universal themes of connection, heritage and artistic expression. Music, dance and the spoken word interweave throughout the evening, creating a cohesive meditation on the profound links between Arab and Spanish cultures.
Algarabía represents an extraordinary opportunity to witness the convergence of two vibrant artistic traditions on a single stage. This is an evening that promises to remain etched in memory, offering audiences a rare glimpse into the transformative possibilities that emerge when cultures meet through the universal language of artistic expression.


