14 December 2009
Multi-Media Technology used for the first time in Bahrain incorporating the Kingdom's iconic landmark

The Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) announced today that the iconic landmark is to feature in a pioneering multi-media projection show celebrating the 10th anniversary of King Hamad's succession to the throne. The twin towers, located directly behind the performance venue on the King Faisal Highway corniche, will form the canvas for a series of events and shows using technology never seen before in Bahrain, including a multi-media show and several dancing performances spread across nine stages. The events will run from 7pm on 17th December 2009

The nine-stage extravaganza of performing arts brings together an array of professional dancers from Egypt, Syria and Bahrain to share the Kingdom of Bahrain's story, marking King Hamad's succession to the throne on 17th December, and Bahrain's National Day on 16th December.  The series of short presentations will reflect the history of Bahrain since the Sumerian civilization through the Assyrian, Babylonian, Dilmun, Hellenistic, pre-Islam and the Islamic era in addition to the periods of the Persian and Portuguese occupation. Overseeing the extensive show is Waleed Awny, renowned Artistic Director of the Egyptian Modern Dance Company, who hails from Lebanon and has been responsible for many acclaimed performances throughout the region. Producing the spectacle is Fernando Toma, world renowned Italian projection artist, who uses moving image projections to change perceptions of spaces and building fassades. His previous accolades have included performances at the Cairo Opera House, the opening of Arag Tower, Dusseldorf, and the Cairo International Stadium.

Mr. Bob Addison, Director of DTZ, BWTC's Managing and Leasing Agents, commented: "It is only fitting that BWTC should act as a canvas and backdrop for His Majesty's 10th Anniversary Celebrations, being an iconic landmark of the Kingdom. The public will see pictures and moving images projected directly onto the building's frontage, and the international light projection talent employed in this show will make sure it is in a way they have never seen before! Additional lighting will also be used to highlight the turbine bridges, providing the crowd with a spectacular view of the turbines as they rotate during the show. BWTC is proud to be the first in Bahrain to benefit from such unique equipment, of which there are only 15 - 20 of in the world."

Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of Culture and Information, commented: "We felt that to celebrate this momentous occasion, something truly spectacular was in order, and therefore the technology used in the show has been specially imported from Italy, and is pioneering in the Kingdom. It is truly a spectacle not to be missed, we lend our full support to this show and encourage the public to attend to celebrate 10 years of King Hamad's rule."

The show will not only entertain the public but has also created jobs for Bahrainis, with an experienced and skilled team of contractors and subcontractors such as CAD World (formed of young Bahraini architects, engineers and technicians) and Nass Works who have been responsible for project managing the erection of the stage, lighting and landscaping.

-Ends-

About Bahrain World Trade Center
Situated on the Manama waterfront and in the heart of the region's leading financial and business hub, the Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC) project comprises the two 50-storey sail shaped twin office towers, the five-star Sheraton Hotel as well as MODA Mall, Bahrain's only ultra high-end shopping destination, featuring some 160 luxury retail outlets as well as a host of modern cafes and exciting fine dining eateries. 

The BWTC provides leading regional and international organizations with a world-class business address. The buildings are highly advanced in design and operation and are the Kingdom's first intelligent offices, employing the latest SMART systems capable of delivering unsurpassed security and maximum competitive advantages and efficiency in office management. In addition, they are the first of their kind in the world, using wind energy to provide 11 - 15% of the electricity needs of the office towers.

Other benefits enjoyed by local and international businesses occupying space at the development is membership to the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA). Locating at the BWTC offers an exceptional opportunity for connectivity with the global business community. With more than 300 centers in 100 countries, WTCA has a membership of approximately 750,000 commercial enterprises worldwide.  

For further information on BWTC and the event, please contact:
Julia Atherton-Dandy
email: julia.dandy@hillandknowlton.com  

© Press Release 2009