The Royal Opera House in Muscat

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The Royal Opera House was opened in autumn 2011. Its programme offers good music from all genres and thus enriches the cultural programme of the Omani capital.

A glance at the programme quickly reveals that not only operas are performed at this venue, but also music from all over the world, especially of Arabic origin, including religious music. The Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra can be heard here on a regular basis.

The varied programme varies from classical aria evenings, mystical dance performances by dervishes, guest appearances by internationally renowned music stars such as the African ethnos singer Dobet Gnahoré and the Kuwaiti singing star Abdullah Al Ruwahishid; instrumental soloists such as Lang Lang and Anne Sophie Mutter.

The guest artists are enthusiastic. The Omani audience is also open-minded and interested.

The balanced beauty of the opera house's architecture, its tasteful décor with fine wood panelling, which gives the building the character of a walk-in treasure chest, as well as the elegantly designed interior;the beautifully dressed locals that you can admire during the breaks, all this makes the visit an unforgettable experience in any case - in addition to the programme on offer.

The Royal Opera House has made a name for itself among musicians and artists for its excellent and perfect acoustics. It fulfils the highest standards: the stage and box walls can be swivelled so that the horseshoe shape of an opera hall can be transformed into a fully-fledged concert hall with a straight alignment of the side walls. Wooden panels on the ceiling can be swivelled to optimally reflect the sound, and there are hatches in the side walls that can either return the sound to the room via hollow spaces or pass it on.

There is a multi-storey car park attached to the opera house. It is also recommended to end the evening in the upscale Omani restaurant Al Angham in the gallery of the opera house. However, it is essential to book a table there in advance by telephone. Telephone: (00968) 22077777.

Outside of previews, the Royal Opera House can be visited during the day - daily from 8.30am - 5.30pm.
For information on the programme and tickets, see https://www.rohmuscat.org.om/en