Japanese rock band delights anime, manga fans at Jeddah Season concert

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Updated 14 June 2022
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Japanese rock band delights anime, manga fans at Jeddah Season concert

  • Concertgoers sang along to songs from popular manga series such as Naruto, One Piece, Dragon Ball, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Tokyo Ghoul during the band’s first appearance in Saudi
  • Koyomi: In this event, Jeddah Season, we felt that all of our fans here loved anime more than we thought

JEDDAH: Members of the Japanese rock group Koyomi Band had fans of anime and manga dancing to their tune when they recently took to the stage as part of Jeddah Season.

Anime Village, one of the port city festival’s activity zones, on Sunday played host to a second show by the group that had otaku (passionate followers of the cartoon culture) in raptures.

Concertgoers sang along to songs from popular manga series such as “Naruto,” “One Piece,” “Dragon Ball,” “Jujutsu Kaisen,” and “Tokyo Ghoul” during the band’s first appearance in Saudi Arabia.

Lead singer, Koyomi, told Arab News: “In this event, Jeddah Season, we felt that all of our fans here loved anime more than we thought.”

And Yoma, the group’s guitarist, said: “I never thought that people in Saudi Arabia loved Japanese anime so much. I’m surprised and want to return again soon.”

Drummer Bobuji noted the warmth of the welcome from the Jeddah City Walk audience. “Even though I cannot express my feelings to the fans in words, I can through music,” he said.

Meanwhile, bassist Kyoya said he was impressed with the Anime Village. “It was awesome, and the fans’ reaction was amazing. The fans were most welcoming, and that made us very happy,” he added.

Visitor Rana Bukhari, 20, said: “They played opening songs from my favorite anime shows, and their concert was so much fun. They sang beautifully and got the crowd excited to sing with them.”

Adel Khalid, 34, another fan of Japanese anime, lauded the targeted Jeddah Season event.

He said: “There are a lot of people in Jeddah and the Kingdom that love anime and attending a concert like Koyomi’s was such a special experience for me.”

Hala Yanba’awi, 25, said: “I learned new greeting phrases such as konnichiwa (hello) and arigato (thank you) from the volunteers in the store, maze, and virtual reality room.

“The Anime Village is actually my favorite zone because I find the events there to be the most fun. I love how colorful it is too,” she added.

Before setting up the band, Koyomi was the main vocalist for the group Re:ply performing concert tours around the world.


The hottest music festivals of 2025 

Updated 20 June 2025
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The hottest music festivals of 2025 

DUBAI: Make your summer travel plans with music in mind 

Glastonbury 

Where: Wiltshire, England 

When: June 25-29 

What: Glastonbury has a convincing claim to being the world’s most famous festival, and regularly attracts more than 200,000 people to the Somerset countryside to see a diverse lineup that — apart from music megastars — includes stand-up comedy, circus acts, theater performances and more. This year’s Pyramid Stage headliners are English pop-rock outfit The 1975, US veteran Neil Young, and US singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo, while top of the bill on The Other Stage are UK hip-hop star Loyle Carner, the inspiration behind last year’s ‘Brat Summer’ Charli XCX, and seminal electronic-music act The Prodigy. Elsewhere, there really is something for all tastes.  

Other must-see acts: Raye, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Rod Stewart, Biffy Clyro, Noah Kahan, The Big Moon, Wolf Alice, Doechii, Wet Leg 

Tomorrowland 

Where: Boom, Belgium 

When: July 18-20 and 25-27 

What: A regular award-winner, Tomorrowland is one of the world’s best electronic dance music festivals. A reported 400,000 people attended last year’s event in De Schorre recreational park, which also accommodates the festival’s official campsite, DreamVille. This year’s Mainstage headliners include Martin Garrix, David Guetta, Armin van Buuren, and Swedish House Mafia, but there’s also plenty of less-mainstream acts performing over the festival’s two weekends on its 14 stages. 

Other must-see acts: Steve Aoki, Afrojack, Charlotte De Witte (pictured), Alok, ANNA, Amelie Lens, Eric Prydz 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Tomorrowland (@tomorrowland)

Lollapalooza 

Where: Chicago, US 

When: July 31–Aug. 3  

What: It may no longer be seen as quite the cultural thermometer it once was, but Lollapalooza is still an eclectic feast for music lovers — booking acts from genres including alt-rock, metal, punk, pop, hip-hop and EDM — and attracts around 400,000 people every year to its home in Chicago. This year’s headliners include Australian alt-dance group Rüfüs Du Sol; US rap star Tyler, The Creator; Olivia Rodrigo; and US singer-songwriter Sabrina Carpenter. 

Other must-see acts: A$AP Rocky, Twice, Luke Combs, Gracie Abrams, Cage The Elephant, Bleachers, Doechii, Martin Garrix 

All Together Now 

Where: Waterford, Ireland 

When: July 31-Aug. 3 

What: The great joy of Irish festival All Together Now is the hidden gems further down the lineup, as well as the ‘sideshows’ of art, spoken word, comedy, theater and wellness in a gorgeous setting. Since its inception, All Together Now has built a reputation for having a deep bench full of quality. So while the headliners — who this year include Fontaines D.C., Nelly Furtado, and London Grammar — aren’t on the megastar scale of the world’s major festivals, this festival is still well worth a visit. 

Other must-see acts: Wet Leg, Leftfield, Michael Kiwanuka, Infinity Song, Gurriers, Glasshouse 

Osheaga 

Where: Montreal, Canada 

When: Aug. 1-3 

What: Spread over six stages in Montreal’s beautiful Parc Jean-Drapeau, Osheaga focuses on up-and-coming acts as well as major names and incorporates a variety of genres. Other attractions apart from the music include volleypong, a Ferris wheel, and art exhibitions. This year’s headliners on the main Bell River Stage are US pop-rock giants The Killers; Tyler, The Creator; and Olivia Rodrigo.  

Other must-see acts: Doechii, Glass Animals, Lucy Dacus, The Chainsmokers, Gracie Abrams, Jamie xx, The Beaches, FINNEAS 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by OSHEAGA (@osheaga)

Sziget Festival 

Where: Budapest, Hungary 

When: Aug. 6-11 

What: Sometimes called “Europe’s Burning Man,” both because of its size (around 1,000 performances each year) and its weird side attractions — including a very odd amusement park — Sziget takes place on the breathtaking Old Buda Island on the River Danube. Headliners on the main stage this year include Charli XCX (pictured), Canadian singer Shawn Mendes, US rapper A$AP Rocky, American rapper and singer Post Malone, and US singer-songwriter Chappell Roan. 

Other must-see acts: FKA Twigs, The Last Dinner Party, Mother, Empire of the Sun, Justice, Amelie Lens, Caribou, Armin van Buuren 

Reading & Leeds 

Where: Reading and Leeds, England 

When: Aug. 21-24 

What: With the same lineup performing on different nights in two different venues a couple hundred miles apart, Reading & Leeds usually attracts a total of more than 200,000 people to shows that tend to focus on indie and alternative music as well as hip-hop. This year’s headliners are Irish rocker Hozier (pictured), Chappell Roan, English rock band Bring Me The Horizon, and US rapper Travis Scott.  

Other must-see acts: Limp Bizkit, Becky Hill, The Kooks, D-Block Europe, Amyl and the Sniffers, Rudim3ntal, Red Rum Club 

 


Where We Are Going Today: Day Day Game

Updated 20 June 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Day Day Game

If you are looking for a vibrant social hub in Riyadh, look no further than Day Day Game. This unique venue offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all types of fun-seekers. Whether you are a skater, a board game enthusiast, or someone who enjoys classic billiards, this place has something for everyone. 

One of the highlights is the skating area, where you can wear your skates and glide around with friends. It is a great way to enjoy some physical activity while having a blast. If skating is not your thing, you can play board games or read a book in a cozy corner. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it perfect for unwinding with friends over a card game or two. 

For those who enjoy classic games, Day Day Game features billiards tables where you can challenge your friends to a friendly match. And if you are feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at crossbow shooting? It is a unique offering that sets this venue apart. Additionally, there is a fun air hockey table that is sure to ignite some competitive spirit.

A particularly appealing aspect of Day Day Game is their Ladies Day every Wednesday and Sunday, providing a welcoming environment for women to enjoy all the activities without any pressure. Accessibility is another key feature; you can conveniently reach the venue via the Riyadh metro by taking the orange line. 

If you are in the mood for something more classic, there is bowling available too.  (Supplied)

When it comes to food, Day Day Game does not disappoint. Their delicious menu offers a variety of options to refuel after a day of fun. Whether you are in the mood for snacks or something more substantial, you will find it here. 

The venue also serves as a social hub where you can meet new people and make lasting connections. With an open mic night, talented individuals have the opportunity to showcase their skills, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. 

For nostalgia lovers, there are arcade games from the 1980s that will take you back in time. And if you are in the mood for something more classic, there is bowling available too. 

Day Day Game is an exciting destination with endless options for entertainment. Personally, I love going there to skate, but with so many activities available, you will likely find yourself trying something new each visit. Whether you are with friends or looking to meet new people, this venue promises a memorable experience in Riyadh.
 


Kneecap rapper Mo Chara bailed over terror charge in the UK

Updated 18 June 2025
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Kneecap rapper Mo Chara bailed over terror charge in the UK

LONDON: Fans of the Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap mobbed sidewalks outside a London court Wednesday as a member of the trio faced a terror-related charge in what he says is a politically motivated effort to silence the band’s support for Palestinians before its appearance at the Glastonbury Festival.

Rapper Mo Chara, whose real name is Liam Og O hAnnaidh, was released on unconditional bail after the hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 20.

Irish rap group Kneecap band member, Liam O'Hanna, who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on June 18, 2025. (AFP)

The single charge against Chara stems from a Nov. 21 concert in north London where he waved a Hezbollah flag in a manner that aroused “reasonable suspicion” he supported the Lebanese militant group, which is banned in Britain as a terrorist organization, the Metropolitan Police Service said in a statement last month.

Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove told the court on Wednesday Chara wasn’t being prosecuted because of his support for the Palestinians or criticism of Israel.

“He’s well within his rights to voice his opinions and solidarity, as is anybody else,’’ Bisgrove said. “The allegation in this case is a wholly different thing and deals with a video recording showing that, in November of last year, Mr. O hAnnaidh wore and displayed the flag of Hezbollah, a proscribed terrorist organization, while saying ‘up Hamas, up Hezbollah.’’’

Kneecap has supported the Palestinian cause throughout the war in Gaza. The band has been the center of controversy in Britain since last year, when the previous government sought to block an arts grant for the band, citing its anti-British politics. That decision was overturned after the Labour Party won last year’s parliamentary election and Prime Minister Keir Starmer took office.

The trio is scheduled to perform at Glastonbury on Saturday, alongside performers including Neil Young and Olivia Rodrigo. The internationally watched music festival is a five-day event that attracts about 200,000 people to a farm outside the small town in western England every summer.

As they entered the courthouse, the three Kneecap members, who hail from Northern Ireland, gave the thumbs up sign to hundreds of supporters who had gathered outside, waving signs reading: “Free Mo Chara” and “Defend Kneecap.”

The group has repeatedly said it doesn’t support Hezbollah or Hamas, nor condone violence.
Before the hearing, the band posted billboards around London bearing the slogan “More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara.” The message echoes the signs landlords placed in the windows of some London boarding houses in the 1950s, stating “No Blacks, No Dogs, No Irish.”

“British courts have long charged people from the North of Ireland with ‘terrorism’ for crimes never committed,” Kneecap said in a statement posted on social media. “We will fight them. We will win.”


Toronto Arab Film Festival showcases diverse selection this June

Updated 18 June 2025
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Toronto Arab Film Festival showcases diverse selection this June

DUBAI: The Toronto Arab Film Festival returns for its sixth annual edition with a diverse lineup from June 20 to 29.

“This year, we are screening over 50 films — both features and shorts — which is our largest number to date … it’s fulfilling to watch the development of the Canadian-Arab film industry in real time,” Rolla Tahir, a Sudanese filmmaker and co-founder of TAF, said.

This year’s program reflects the growing diversity and creative evolution of Arab cinema, with some well-known filmmakers participating.

“We’re seeing a notable rise in genre films, especially horror and sci-fi. For example, there’s a horror film from Tunisia and a short program dedicated entirely to sci-fi and horror,” Tahir said.

Participants this year include Lebanese filmmaker Mira Shabib with her film “Arze’” and “Back to Alexandria” by Tamer Ruggli starring Lebanese actress Nadine Labaki.

TAF has also become a valuable platform for professional development, offering networking opportunities for both emerging and established talent.

“This year, we’re introducing an informal industry meet-and-greet — a casual networking event with no structured pitches,” Tahir explained.

The event is designed to create a relaxed environment where Arab filmmakers can connect with industry professionals, ask candid questions, and introduce their projects without the pressure of formal presentations.

The festival’s mission may seem simple — to raise awareness of Arab cinema among Canadian audiences — but achieving that impact requires a deliberate strategy.

It is one that Tahir and her co-founders have refined over the years.

“Each year, we collaborate with other festivals to co-present films and expand outreach beyond Arab audiences,” she said.

For Tahir, the appeal of Arab cinema to non-Arab audiences comes naturally, thanks to the enduring quality and resilience of the work itself.

“What stands out is perseverance. Regardless of what’s happening in our countries or personal lives, Arab filmmakers continue telling their stories.”

It is that very perseverance — expressed through everything from harrowing documentaries to satirical comedies — that gives Arab filmmakers their distinct voice.

“I want people to know we’re still making films — and that we’re making different, bold, and innovative ones,” Tahir said.


Saudi theatrical show ‘Terhal’ returns to Diriyah

Updated 17 June 2025
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Saudi theatrical show ‘Terhal’ returns to Diriyah

  • “Terhal” is a pioneering Saudi production which boasts advanced lighting and visual technology

RIYADH: The Ministry of Culture is to present the theatrical performance “Terhal” from Aug. 4-25 at Mayadeen Venue in Diriyah.

“Terhal” is a pioneering Saudi production which boasts advanced lighting and visual technology, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

It offers a visually captivating experience, telling the story of a young Saudi man who dreams of shaping his country’s future.

His journey across the Kingdom takes him through diverse landscapes and rich traditions, helping him to rediscover Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural heritage. He returns to his village at the end with renewed confidence, wisdom, and hope.

The show features stunning scenes inspired by Saudi landscapes, and highlights young Saudi talents alongside renowned international performers.

The second edition of “Terhal” builds on the success of its 2023 debut which celebrated Saudi culture, from performing arts to handicrafts, traditional attire and cuisine.