Egypt hosts London's Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for the first time in the region

The concerts (to be held under the auspices of H.E. Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak), will take place on January 30th and 31st 2007 at the Cairo Opera house, and on February 1st 2007 at the Alexandria Opera House.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the largest and oldest orchestras in the world, having just celebrated their sixtieth anniversary in 2006. The orchestra has toured more than thirty countries in the last five years and continues to be highly praised by audiences worldwide. It also records widely, including some on its own record label. Renowned not only for its artistic prowess, the international orchestra is also known for its strong community presence and charity work.

The coming event will mark a key cultural opportunity for the country, as Egypt is privileged to be the first country in the Middle East and Africa to host this spectacular orchestra.

Mr. Ahmed El-Khadem, Chairman of the Egyptian Tourist Authority, stated:

'Having hosted numerous major cultural events in the past, Egypt is proud to now be hosting this world-class orchestra. We are pleased that Egypt has been chosen as the Orchestra's very first destination in the region to showcase such a high level of musical talent.'

The orchestra will be directed by world-acclaimed Leonard Slatkin, Director of the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington DC and Principal Guest Conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl. The programme for January 30th and February 1st consists of Mozart's Marriage of Figaro Overture, Chopin's Piano Concerto No.1 and Dvorak's Symphony No.9, and features piano soloist Ramzy Yassa. The January 31st programme consists of Glinka's Russlan & Ludmilla Overture, Mozart's Piano Concerto No.20 and Brahms' Symphony No.2, and features piano soloist Ahmed Abu Zahra.

The event is expected to attract thousands of local and international audiences. Tickets for the concert range from US $18 to 35 and can be purchased directly from the Cairo Opera House and the Alexandria Opera House, in person or by phone. Ticket revenues will be donated to the Egyptian children's cancer hospital.