What’s On
January 2019
February 2019
Nasseej
A grand celebratory theatrical production marking the conclusion of the Kuwait Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025 festivities.
As the grand closing ceremony of the celebrations marking Kuwait’s selected the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025, the National Theatre hosts the large-scale musical “Nasseej” from 11 to 13 February, produced by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters. The production presents a fantastical journey inspired by the art of Sadu weaving, reimagined through a contemporary artistic vision. Its threads extend from the depths of our history and heritage to the horizons of the wider Arab world, beginning in the heart of Kuwait and reaching the heart of every Arab, weaving through the ancient Kuwaiti sadu an inspiring story and crafting from its legacy a timeless message for life.
The production is written and directed by renowned theatre director Abdullah Abdulrasoul, and stars a distinguished ensemble of Kuwait’s leading actors and singers, including Jamal Al-Radhaan, Khaled Ameen, Mona Shaddad, Samah, Shaimaa Suleiman, Abdulghaffar Al-Awadhi, Maryam Shuaib, alongside emerging talent Hussein Duwai and Hoor Al-Qallaf. The show also features the Ornina Theatrical Dance Group, in addition to a team of specialists in scenography, music, and dramatic and physical performance arts.
Notably, students of the Studio for Performing Arts, launched by the Sheikh Jaber Cultural Centre for the first time in the summer of 2025, take part in this major production as performers and singers. Their participation reflects a commitment to nurturing young talent and developing future generations in acting and performance arts.
Women in Leadership
A regional conference celebrating women in leadership and the real impact of inclusive leadership.
The first edition of the Women in Leadership Conference will take place this March at the Multipurpose Hall, as a high-profile cultural event that unites influential women and allies from across the region. The conference presents real-life leadership journeys through keynote speeches and panel discussions featuring prominent figures from government, business, health, culture, education, innovation, and social development.
The conference addresses six core themes reflecting the region’s leadership journey including governance, decision-making, and leadership under pressure, aiming to spotlight inspiring role models, encourage meaningful dialogue, and offer insights that contribute to strengthening the leadership landscape. The event takes the form of a refined and impactful evening that honours women’s achievements and reaffirms Kuwait’s commitment to cultural leadership and social advancement.
WICKED
A true global phenomenon, one of the most popular musicals in the world, is coming to the National theatre in April.
A true global phenomenon and one of the most popular musicals in the world, Wicked comes to the National Theatre this April. With multiple productions that have captivated more than 65 million audience members across 130+ cities in 16 countries, this awe-inspiring new production, by Broadway Entertainment Group tells the untold story of the witches of Oz as never before, with over 100 performers, crew, and orchestra members. Audiences will enjoy breathtaking sets, more than 350 stunning costumes, and show-stopping musical numbers, including “Defying Gravity”, “Popular”, and “For Good”.
Set long before Dorothy’s iconic arrival in Oz, Wicked reveals the extraordinary journey of two young women: one, misunderstood but brilliantly talented and born with emerald-green skin; the other, beautiful, ambitious, and admired. Their unlikely friendship soon turns into a powerful rivalry that shapes their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.
A story of sisterhood, identity, and empowerment, Wicked promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Don’t miss the chance to experience this global smash hit live on stage, right here in Kuwait.
HAUSER
An evening with the world’s most celebrated cellist HAUSER, presenting a selection of his finest performances spanning classical works, pop and rock music, as well as folk and Arabic-inspired melodies.
Since that fateful moment when HAUSER decided to create a new musical experience out of the long-established traditions of classical music and extending into the worlds of pop, rock, and folk melodies, he has been touring major stages and arenas around the world. This coming May, audiences in Kuwait will be treated to the captivating sound of this global artist, whose performances have touched the hearts and minds of millions. HAUSER takes listeners on a rich and varied musical journey on an exceptional evening filled with emotion, energy, and captivating melodies.
HAUSER’s international career took off following his iconic rendition of “Smooth Criminal” by the late pop legend Michael Jackson, a performance that became a turning point in his journey, earned him widespread recognition online, and established him as a founding member of the duo 2Cellos. Since then, his performances have achieved remarkable global success, positioning him in recent years as one of the most prominent musicians on the international stage. His performance style can best be described as electric; a unique fusion of explosive cello virtuosity that brings together beauty, elegance, and exceptional performance power.