How circuses have thrived as Saudi Arabia’s form of entertainment

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Live Show Arabia has organized circuses in three different cities, with more on the way, since the start of ‘Entertainment Renaissance’ in the Kingdom last year. (Photo/Supplied)
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Live Show Arabia has organized circuses in three different cities, with more on the way, since the start of ‘Entertainment Renaissance’ in the Kingdom last year. (Photo/Supplied)
Updated 05 July 2019
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How circuses have thrived as Saudi Arabia’s form of entertainment

  • Adjustments in their costumes and routines notwithstanding performers never fail to wow audiences

RIYADH: “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls of all ages,” the introduction has been booming out across Saudi Arabia for over two years now. The circus is in town all over the Kingdom and, from the looks of it, it’s here to stay.

Circuses are universally loved as places where one can take the family to enjoy a night out. Young and old are entertained by the antics of a clown or dazzled by feats of acrobatic excellence. And as a family-oriented society, Saudi Arabia is the perfect place for circus shows to thrive.

Live Show Arabia (LSA) was one of the first companies to market circuses as a form of entertainment in Saudi right at the start of the “Entertainment Renaissance” that began in the Kingdom last year.

The company staged the “Hollywood Circus,” pitching their tents in the lot outside Granada Mall in Riyadh, now informally known as Circus Square. Since then they’ve gone on to organize circuses in three different cities, with more on the way.

Shows big and small

The popularity of circuses has continued to grow since, with small productions such as those organized by LSA just as common as bigger names such as Cirque du Soleil or Cirque Eloize.

The larger shows are significantly less intimate, and often more expensive, meaning only a limited audience — those who can afford it —  can attend. The fact that smaller circuses like those put on by LSA are not restricted to Saudi Arabia’s major cities has helped them become even more popular.

And despite the smaller size of their shows, their performers are no less talented. “Circo Americano” is helmed by ringmaster Martin Espana — also known as Mr. Extreme Circus. As the most experienced member of the troupe, Espana is involved with all the acts in one way or another and performs with everyone, from the acrobats to the clowns. 

Espana told Arab News he has been with the circus for 59 years. When asked how old he was, he replied with the same number: “I was born in the circus, I’ve been a circus performer my whole life,” he said with a grin.

Miguel Gustavo Barreiro has been performing as a clown for over 30 years. He joined up with the “Circo Americano” troupe about four years ago and has toured with them all over the Arab world, visiting countries including Oman, Jordan, and Lebanon. But so far, he says, his favorite location in the Middle East has been Saudi Arabia.

“The people in Saudi Arabia are very soft. Very lovely! Very cute. Arabia is so special, I love the people,” he told Arab News backstage during the intermission.

His affection for the Arab world is clear during his performances, when he can be seen speaking to the audience in Arabic. He calls out “Yalla!” when trying to get them to interact, and “Mashallah!” when they do as they’re told. When asked if he would like to come back to Saudi Arabia in the future, he answers with a cheeky “Inshallah!”

Thierry Antonios of Live Show Arabia invited Arab News backstage after the circus to meet the performers and discuss the success of the company’s different circus shows.

“This is our fourth circus in Saudi Arabia, and we are still planning more,” he said. “We have had a lot of success with Saudis as an audience so far.”

However, there are certain restrictions on performers in Saudi Arabia that generally do not apply elsewhere in the world — meaning the troupe members have to make changes to their costumes and routines.

The people in Saudi Arabia are very soft. Very lovely! Very cute. Arabia is so special, I love the people.

Miguel Gustavo Barreiro

These changes are evident in the way the performers present themselves onstage. The female performers’ dance movements are muted, sometimes jerky, as if they are restraining themselves from moving their bodies too provocatively.

And of course, the costumes have been altered as well: One of the clowns wears a pair of black basketball shorts underneath her tutu to cover her thighs. Underneath short, swishing skirts and cropped shirts, female acrobats wear long-sleeved black bodysuits that hide every inch of exposed skin. The ringmaster’s assistant’s top half looks impeccable in a fancy, sequined red coat, but her bottom half is clad in a regular pair of black sweatpants.

Ludmilla, a Ukranian performer, specializes in acrobatics and contortion. Acrobats in most circuses are usually clad in scanty, skin-tight costumes that leave little to the imagination, Ludmilla has opted for a loose-fitting jumpsuit more appropriate for a Saudi audience.

HIGHLIGHTS

• LSA's small productions are as popular compared to bigger names such as Cirque du Soleil or Cirque Eloize.

• Circo Americano is helmed by ringmaster Martin Espana — also known as Mr. Extreme Circus.

• There are certain restrictions on performers in Saudi Arabia that generally do not apply elsewhere in the world — meaning the troupe members have to make changes to their costumes and routines.

She said that the costume change does not affect her performance: “It doesn’t bother me. Some of the other performers need tight costumes in order to perform, but my act doesn’t require it.”

“We try to choose artists who are willing to modify their costumes, and so far we haven’t had any issues with getting them to try something different,” Antonios said.

Feedback

The costume changes came into effect following a few complaints that Live Show Arabia received during their first performance of “Hollywood Circus” in Riyadh regarding outfits and acts.

“This year we have taken all the feedback into consideration and adapted the show to Saudi needs,” said Antonios.

Most of the performers Arab News spoke to at “Circo Americano” — and indeed most circus performers worldwide — began honing their talents at a very young age. Barreiro, who turns 50 this year, has been performing as a clown for more than 30 years. Ludmilla, 29, has been performing for 25 years. Most circus performers were either born into the circus life or began traveling with a troupe at as young as three years old.

However, LSA is aware that there are Saudis who may be interested in joining a circus troupe and Antonios revealed exclusively to Arab News that his company has plans to establish a circus school in Riyadh some time in the next few years.

“We’re still waiting on full approvals, and investors, but this is definitely something we would be interested in doing,” he said.


Made with love — Saudi commission presents works by global artisans

Updated 7 sec ago
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Made with love — Saudi commission presents works by global artisans

  • Northern Ireland, Japan and Mexico among countries represented in International Handicrafts Week
  • Through Banan and other initiatives, the Heritage Commission raises awareness about the importance of handicrafts as part of cultural heritage

RIYADH: The second Saudi International Handicrafts Week — known as Banan — is offering a wealth of live music, interactive experiences and artisanal works from around the world in Riyadh this week.

Running until Nov. 29, the event is organized by the Saudi Heritage Commission and features artists and representatives from over 20 countries, exhibiting alongside the Kingdom’s own talent.

Katherine McDonald, director of Crafts Northern Ireland, told Arab News: “I think the craft of any country (paints) a picture about the people, the landscape, the culture … it’s an important part of the identity of a country. That's why it’s important that we can allow craft makers to flourish, to pass on skills, to train new craft makers, because they’re as important as the food, as the economy.”

The collective, exhibiting in Saudi Arabia for the first time, represents artisans in Northern Ireland whose work ranges from textiles and jewelry to ceramics and furniture. Items from 13 of them are on display at Banan.

“We try to have a range of work that's representative of what makers are doing in Northern Ireland,” McDonald said. “We have textiles made from local wool, ceramics ... there’s always something that allows an artist to express themselves and for people to find something they really like that suits their style.”

Award-winning contemporary silversmith Cara Murphy is largely inspired by the environment to create unique pieces such as bowls, clocks, and candle holders. She is the designer behind the past four Randox Grand National awards, often called the world’s greatest steeplechase.

Jakki Trainor crafts clay works that focus on the word “figment” to depict real or imaginative flora, fauna and folklore, while Joel Smyth creates eclectic pieces of jewelry inspired by European minimalist design, multifunctionality and interaction. 

McDonald said: “Jewelry is always popular for gifting and for yourself. And we also have glass and some wooden articles as well. So, it’s a range of materials.

“This is what’s so interesting to see, what different countries and different artisans have done with the same materials. There’s such diversity. Everything is unique.”  

In addition to the 500 artisans marketing and selling their work, the event features multiple interactive and immersive zones including the handicrafts arts village, a live craft performances pavilion, crafts exhibition and workshops pavilion, a platform for entrepreneurs and craft organizations, and a children’s activities pavilion.

Hailing from Hungary, woodworker Bela Zalai has been honing his craft for over 20 years. For his first visit to the Kingdom, he is exhibiting an array of his work including flutes, bowls, pots, jewelry and chairs. 

Carving a flute at his booth, he told Arab News: “In Hungary, handicrafts is a very rich culture … it’s a very popular thing — pottery and leather work and a lot of things. In these times, everything is too modern and fast … handwork is very personal, unique and valuable.” 

Zalai works as a zoologist, but since he started his handcrafting journey the day-job has taken second place: “Hand work is much more important for me than biology at the moment,” he said.

Through Banan and other initiatives, the Heritage Commission raises awareness about the importance of handicrafts as part of cultural heritage, ensuring they are preserved and passed on.

Saudi International Handicrafts Week is open to the public from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., except on Monday and Wednesday when hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.


EU delegation reviews Saudi efforts to combat extremism

Updated 47 min 18 sec ago
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EU delegation reviews Saudi efforts to combat extremism

  • Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology’s secretary-general, Mansour Al-Shammari, received the delegation and addressed several topics of mutual interest in combating extremism
  • EU members were briefed on the center’s strategy and its efforts to combat extremist ideology as well as mitigate its impact and messages

RIYADH: Members of the EU’s Political and Security Committee, including its chair, Delphine Pronk, paid an official visit to the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology in Riyadh.

The center’s secretary-general, Mansour Al-Shammari, received the delegation and addressed several topics of mutual interest in combating extremism.

The EU members were briefed on the center’s strategy and its efforts to combat extremist ideology as well as mitigate its impact and messages, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

They also learned about the community initiatives and international partnerships that promote the principles of tolerance and a culture of moderation.

The meeting was attended by EU Special Representative for the Gulf Luigi Di Maio, European External Action Service Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa Helene Le Gal, EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Farnaud and Saudi Ambassador to the EU Haifa Al-Jedea.

Earlier, the EU delegation visited the Gulf Cooperation Council’s headquarters in Riyadh and met Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi to discuss mutual interests and joint efforts to address global challenges.

Topics included regional issues such as Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Gulf security, Iran, maritime security in the Red Sea, Iraq, Sudan, the Horn of Africa and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

The delegation also met Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy Adel Al-Jubeir to discuss climate change, environmental cooperation and strengthening joint efforts in these areas. They also reviewed recent foreign policy developments in Europe and the Middle East.


Riyadh exhibition explores palm’s role in ancient cultures

Updated 26 November 2024
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Riyadh exhibition explores palm’s role in ancient cultures

  • Experts discuss challenges and innovations in date farming

RIYADH: The “Palm Tree in Civilizations” pavilion at the International Dates Conference and Exhibition in Riyadh, running until Nov. 28, highlights the historical significance of the palm tree across ancient cultures.

The pavilion explores how date palms supported food and economic sustainability, offering a historical journey through the ages.

It also showcases the palm’s importance in ancient Egypt through carvings and murals depicting its role in daily life and religious rituals, as well as in agriculture, construction, and fertility practices.

Organized by the National Center for Palm and Dates under the theme “World of Dates,” the exhibit also highlights the palm’s significance in Mesopotamia and the Levant, featuring ancient texts like the Code of Hammurabi, which protected palm cultivation, along with carvings illustrating their role in trade and society.

The 'Palm Tree in the Civilization of the Nile Valley' section garnered the attention of many visitors. (Supplied)

Artifacts from the Dilmun civilization highlighted the reliance of ancient Arab societies on palms for agriculture and trade.

The pavilion also showcases the palm’s symbolic role in the Levant, particularly among the Canaanites and Arameans, with depictions from historical sites like Palmyra emphasizing its importance in religious and artistic traditions.

Saad Alnajim, vice president of the Antiquities and Heritage Association in the Eastern Province, said: “Beyond providing food, medicine, and shade, the palm symbolizes belonging and pride, reflected in its place on Saudi Arabia’s national emblem.”

Saad Alnajim, vice president of the Antiquities and Heritage Association in the Eastern Province.

Abdulaziz Al-Tuwaijri, chairman of the National Committee for Environment, Water and Agriculture, said that dates are central to the Saudi economy, with Vision 2030 aiming to make the Kingdom the world’s largest date exporter.

He added: “Today, the Kingdom is the largest producer and exporter of dates, thanks to the clear vision of the crown prince, whose efforts we are now benefiting from.”

According to the UN Comtrade database, Saudi Arabia exported dates worth over SR1.4 billion ($373 million) to 119 countries by the end of 2023.

The Saudi General Authority for Statistics reported production exceeding 1.9 million tonnes, reflecting a 152.5 percent increase in export value since 2016, solidifying the Kingdom’s position as the world’s largest date exporter.

Meanwhile, a panel of global climate and agriculture experts discussed the impact of climate change on date palm cultivation.

The session focused on challenges such as delayed fruit maturation, reduced yields, pests, and pollution, and explored innovative solutions to address these issues. The panel emphasized the need for international cooperation and sustainable farming practices.

Abdulaziz Al-Tuwaijri, chairman of the National Committee for Environment, Water, and Agriculture.

The discussion highlighted global best practices, including improved irrigation and smart agricultural techniques, as well as the importance of farmer education and technical support.

Recommendations included enhancing international collaboration, supporting research on climate-resistant varieties, and promoting awareness for sustainable date palm cultivation.

The exhibition offers a variety of entertainment activities, including folklore shows, regional poetry, and cooking competitions.

It also features a museum that takes visitors on a journey through the history of palm trees and dates over the past 1,000 years.

Additionally, a live cooking area brings together local and international chefs to prepare a variety of date-based dishes.


Saudi Arabia’s NEOM gigaproject a ‘generational investment,’ minister says

Updated 26 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s NEOM gigaproject a ‘generational investment,’ minister says

  • The world’s top oil exporter has poured hundreds of billions of dollars into development projects through the kingdom’s $925 billion sovereign fund

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s NEOM gigaproject, a futuristic region being built in the desert, is a “generational investment” with a long timeline, the country’s investment minister told Reuters on Monday, adding that foreign investment will pick up pace.
“NEOM was not meant to be a two-year investable opportunity. If anybody expected NEOM to be foreign investment in two, three or five years, then they have gotten (it) wrong — it’s a generational investment,” Minister Khalid Al-Falih said on the sidelines of the World Investment Conference in Riyadh.
“The flywheel is starting and it will gain speed as we go forward, as some of the foundational assets come to the market,” he said.
The world’s top oil exporter has poured hundreds of billions of dollars into development projects through the kingdom’s $925 billion sovereign fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), as it undergoes an economic agenda dubbed Vision 2030 to cut dependence on fossil fuels.
NEOM, a Red Sea urban and industrial development nearly the size of Belgium that is meant to eventually house 9 million people, is central to Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia has scaled back some lofty ambitions to prioritize completing elements essential to hosting global sporting events over the next decade as rising costs weigh, sources told Reuters earlier this month. NEOM announced this month its long-time chief executive, Nadhmi Al-Nasr, had stepped down, without giving further details.
Asked what effect the departure would have on investors, the minister said the executive had done “a respectable job” but that “there is a time for everybody to pass on the baton.”
Asked if PIF will continue to do much of the spending on NEOM until more foreign funds come in, Al-Falih said it was not binary.
“I think foreign investors are starting to come to NEOM, they’re starting to channel capital. Some of the projects that the PIF will be doing will be financed through global capital pools, through some alternative and private capital. That’s taking place as we speak,” he said.
“So I urge you not to look at NEOM as being 100 percent PIF and then suddenly there will be a cliff and it will go private.”
Saudi Arabia, which is racing to attract $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment by the turn of the decade — reaching about a quarter of that in 2023 — has recently seen more co-investment deals between state entities and foreign investors.
“It’s always been the intent,” Al-Falih said of foreign inflows alongside state funds.
He noted that foreign investors were at times “still looking, still examining, still sometimes questioning,” but that now there was confidence in the profitability of investment opportunities and that “the risk-return trade-offs are very, very fair and positive to them.”


Saudi crown prince extends condolences to Kuwaiti counterpart on death of Sheikh Mohammed Abdulaziz Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah

Updated 26 November 2024
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Saudi crown prince extends condolences to Kuwaiti counterpart on death of Sheikh Mohammed Abdulaziz Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a cable of condolences to Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah on the passing of Sheikh Mohammed Abdulaziz Hamoud Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah.
In the cable, the crown prince extended his deepest sympathy to Sheikh Sabah and the family of the deceased.