Sporting symphony: French Embassy hosts Olympic-themed concert

RIYADH: In recognition of the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, the French Embassy and Alliance Francaise in Saudi Arabia recently hosted a special performance fusing symphonic music and sport.

Held at the Cultural Palace in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter, the show, titled “Rhapsodie Sportive” was the idea of Zahia Ziouani and featured the Divertimento Orchestra, which she set up in 1998.

The French Algerian conductor said she wanted to show that classical music was still relevant.

“I feel so passionate about the music and the will to be with the audience and to make it possible for the audience to see that classical music is not music from the past, but we can associate modern and contemporary ways of dance and music,” she told Arab News.

“I want to be very creative on stand and I’m very happy to conduct my orchestra. It has always been a dream for me and now I get to do that.”

She said she was also delighted to be given the opportunity to perform in the Kingdom.

“This program is about the spirit of the Olympic Games and to mix music and sports … to be here in Riyadh is a very big symbol and I’m very proud of this.”

French Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ludovic Pouille, who will step down later this year, introduced the event.

“I am very happy because this was an amazing show,” he said. “Mixing classical music, a French orchestra and French dancers and athletes representing all types of sports, just a few weeks before the Olympic Games in Paris.

“I have to say I was so impressed by the hospitality of the Saudi people and the enthusiasm (we got) from all the events we have organized. There is a cultural dialogue between France and Saudi Arabia. The opening up of Saudi Arabia is very important, not just for the country, but the world.”

Fencing, boxing, tennis, BMX and breaking all featured in the show, performed against symphonic music from France, Spain, UK, US and around the world.