Three Performances in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain to Strengthen Cultural Links between the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom

Major British and local corporations support The Tour

Dubai, UAE, 20th January 2008 - The English Concert - billed as one of Europe's leading chamber orchestras - today announced its UAE debut at a series of exclusive performances in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain from 28th - 31st January 2008, along with an educational and charitable programme.  Aimed at strengthening the cultural ties between the United Kingdom the United Arab Emirates, The English Concert will perform popular works by Handel and Bach during the tour.

Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, The English Concert event in Abu Dhabi is hosted by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, and will take place on Monday, 28th January.

 The English Concert performance in Dubai, set for Wednesday, 30th January, is held under the Royal Patronage of HRH Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and is hosted by HE Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre and Chairman of The Board of the Dubai Hosting Committee of The English Concert Tour.

The final performance of The English Concert is scheduled in Al Ain on Thursday, 31st January, under the patronage of HH Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Eastern District, and is hosted by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage.

"The English Concert Tour of the UAE brings together in a natural partnership one of Europe's leading chamber orchestras with the region's cultural hub. The Tour also demonstrates the commitments of the sponsors, who represent some of the UK's leading companies, to contribute to the UAE not just economic value, but also cultural vitality", commented HE Edward Oakden, the British Ambassador to the UAE.  

Principal sponsors for The English Concert Tour are HSBC Bank, the world's local bank, and Peacock Properties, a major British investor in the UAE market. Other sponsors include Balli Group plc, Clifford Chance, Emirates Airline, Dubai based Farbro Group and Ernst & Young. 

The English Concert's performances will be led by the critically acclaimed conductor, Harry Bicket. Lucy Crowe, one of the best loved British sopranos of her generation, will sing arias from Handel and Bach.

Further information about The English Concert 2008 Tour of the UAE can be found at www.theenglishconcertuae.com

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For further press information, please contact:
The Portsmouth Group
Shawn Stephens/Eileen Wallis
Tel: +971 4 369 3575
Email: shawn.stephens@theportsmouthgroup.com
Eileen.wallis@theportsmouthgroup.com

The English Concert, 2008 Tour of the UAE
Zeina El-Dana
zeina_d@emirates.net
M: +97150 353 2722

© Press Release 2008