History unfolds with 'Return of the Phoenix'

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Amidst the buoyant and unique atmosphere of Dubai during the celebrations marking Eid-Al-Fitr, Return of the Phoenix promises a dramatic spectacle that will not only delight families celebrating the Eid holidays, but also enthrall people of different cultural and religious orientations as they witness the Rahbani family's flair for artistry, drama and music.

The play will be staged at the East Hall of Airport Expo Dubai from October 1st to October 3rd, 2008, with one show held each day.

On so many levels, the Rahbani's musical play will witness the unfolding of an historical event. For one, it is inspired by a great war that depicted a people's undying love for Byblos.

Written by the iconic writer/composer Mansour Rahbani, music and production of Osama Rahabni and directed by the talented Marwan Rahbani, the highly acclaimed cultural performance will be staged for the first time outside Lebanon, making its debut in Dubai during the biggest Eid celebrations that will take place in the region.

Mansour Rahbani, creator and chief writer of the play, said Return of the Pheonix is about professing faith and hope in the human race and about the undying nature of love that, like the Phoenix, rises and endures no matter what.

Yousif Mubarak, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Shopping Festival Office said the landmark staging of the musical play lends a dramatic and cultural flair to this festive season.

'This will be a perfect occasion for families to get together and celebrate amidst a fantastic spectacle of the spirit of Eid.'

During a media gathering organized by the DSF Office, Marwan Rahbani said: 'We are very excited to bring our play to Dubai as a regional debut. Dubai is very well known for hosting successful events and to come during 'Eid in Dubai' is an added value for us and the spectators like wise.'

The gathering, at the Ramadan tent in DIFC, was held to announce the debut of the play in Dubai and was also attended by DSF Office officials Yousif Mubarak, COO; Khulood Al Thani, Marketing Manager; and Mohammed Ali Al Kamali, Senior Sponsorship Coordinator.

This latest creation by Rahbani follows a long and storied tradition of cultural milestones.

The writings of the Rahbani Theatre feature the dynamics of mingling of history, cultures, nations and peoples, tackling various socio-political problems of the Arab world.

For generations, the Rahbani Theatre has succeeded in introducing a new generation of singers, who went on to become famous stars in the Arab world.

Return of the Phoenix features a superb cast of performers including Antoine Karbage, Ghassan Saliba, and the new face Hiba Touji, along with Rifaat Tarabay, Takla Chamoun, Paul Suleiman, Assad Haddad, Nazih Youssef, Youssef Haddad, and many more.

National Bonds is the founder sponsor of 'Eid in Dubai' and the event is supported by wasl.

ARY Exclusive, Dubai Festival City, Emirates Airline, and Dubai World Trade Centre are the key sponsors.

The Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG) and the Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group (DGJG) will also be associated with 'Eid in Dubai'.