Dubai National Theatre, supported by the Ministry of Culture, has hosted a specialised choral singing workshop, reinforcing the UAE’s growing investment in performing arts education and collaborative music practice. The initiative brought together choir members, aspiring vocalists, and music enthusiasts seeking advanced vocal and ensemble training within a structured artistic environment.
The workshop formed part of Dubai National Theatre’s wider cultural strategy, which is focused on talent development, community engagement, and contemporary performance training. Moreover, it reflected broader national efforts to strengthen the UAE’s creative industries through accessible arts education.
Focus on Collective Performance and Vocal Technique
Led by American performing artist and choreographer Gillian Rhodes, the programme centred on choral singing as a discipline rooted in harmony, precision, and coordinated group performance. Rhodes, who has performed internationally across more than 20 cities, guided participants through vocal techniques designed to strengthen ensemble cohesion and musical sensitivity.
“We are proud to organise this specialised choral singing workshop as part of our ongoing efforts to nurture artistic talent and expand the horizons of performing arts in the UAE. This initiative reflects our commitment to empowering individuals through structured artistic training and meaningful cultural engagement,” said Yasser Al Gergawi.
Participants trained in voice distribution, pitch control, and active listening, while sessions also focused on breath management and sound stability during group performance. Additionally, the workshop explored the balanced use of chest voice, falsetto, and head voice to enhance tonal depth within a choral setting.
Rhodes stressed that successful choral singing relies on attentive listening and the ability to integrate within a vocal ensemble, while maintaining individual vocal identity.
The programme further incorporated live performance exercises and physical movement training that connected rhythm with body awareness. Consequently, participants developed both technical precision and expressive interpretation through practical collaboration.
Cultural Exchange Through Choral Music
Beyond vocal training, the workshop positioned choral music as a platform for cultural dialogue and collective creativity. Rhodes described the programme as her first Arabic choral initiative in Dubai and highlighted its multicultural dynamic, which brought together Emirati participants and Arab residents.
She added that the initiative represents a step towards establishing a sustainable training programme in collaboration with Dubai National Theatre, which will also expand the presence of choral music in the region.
Based in Dubai, Rhodes works across movement, choreography, and storytelling. Her multidisciplinary background includes classical ballet, circus arts, aerial silks, and dance studies at Columbia University. In addition, she currently works as a writer, educator, and creative director while engaging with multilingual and cross-disciplinary artistic practices.
Dubai National Theatre continues to position itself as a central venue for the development of performing arts in the UAE. Alongside workshops and productions, the institution collaborates with cultural entities on initiatives related to scenography, lighting, sound, and youth-focused arts education.
Looking ahead, the theatre’s 2026 programming will continue to emphasise training, community-led creativity, and emerging artistic talent, further expanding the UAE’s cultural and musical landscape.