Dubai Opera construction ‘to complete by August’
Developer Emaar says that landmark cultural project is ‘showing good progress’
Construction work on Dubai Opera, the city’s first purpose built, multi-format performing arts theatre, is set to be completed by August 2016, developer Emaar has said.
According to a construction update posted on its website, Emaar said that the project is ‘showing good progress’ with concrete and steel structure works completed.
“Ongoing works are vertical transportation, interior fit-out, stage engineering, joinery, façade, roofing and metal. There are other installations such as water features, kitchen equipment, auditorium seating, fit-out, MEP and finishing,” the developer added.
Situated at the heart of the Opera District in Downtown Dubai, the structure is a 2,000-seat, multi-format performing arts venue. The project’s design takes inspiration from Dubai’s maritime history, Emaar said, with the Arabian dhow playing a large part in the architecture of the building.
Dubai Opera will have the ability to ‘transform’ into three modes, the developer added. From a theatre, it can change into a concert hall, as well as a banquet or event hall. The venue’s flexibility will allow it to host a variety of events, Emaar said.
“The venue’s flexibility will be seamless and the design quality of materials and finishes will all be of a very high standard, ensuring that there is no compromise between any of the three modes.
“In theatre mode, the space will be suitable for opera, musicals, ballets and dance performance, large scale drama productions, lectures and conferences. It will seat between 1,940 and 2,040 people – depending on the configuration.”
The venue can be transformed into a concert hall through a series of towers on stage, which will create an acoustic shell that will surround the orchestra, while reflectors will be positioned overhead to enhance the acoustics and reflect sound. The concert platform can also be varied in size so as to suit the ensemble.
“In ‘flat floor’ mode, the room will cater for a number of events including weddings, with banquet style seating able to accommodate up to 1,000 guests. It will also offer the flexibility to be configured for trade shows, exhibitions, receptions and parties where furniture can be supplied or removed accordingly,” the Emaar statement said.
