Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck on his Spago Riyadh experience
Updated 17 June 2023
Hebshi Al-Shammari
RIYADH: Austrian-American celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck has more than 40 years of experience and numerous accolades to his name, including two Michelin stars for his restaurant Spago Beverly Hills and one for his steak restaurant CUT in Singapore. He recently opened Spago Riyadh, and sat down with Arab News to discuss why he decided to expand into Saudi Arabia.
“I really think that Saudi Arabia is at the beginning of a culinary revolution. The country is so welcoming to us. We know many of our guests, from LA to London, come from Saudi and have been asking for a similar experience in their (country),” he explained. “Saudi consumers are well-traveled … They have a wide range of experiences with different cuisines and are extremely open-minded. They’re the perfect guests for us as we always like to do something new and exciting.”
Wolfgang Puck (left) in the kitchen. (Supplied)
Spago Beverly Hills has been a huge success, and Puck explained that much of that is down to access to fresh, top-quality ingredients.
“California is one of the best places for ingredients: the best veggies, fruits and berries,” he said. “We also have the ocean, prairies … (This) allows us to get the freshest produce in-house and use our techniques to try and get the best possible outcome on the plate. Plus, we are multicultural, so we get influences not only from Europe, but many Asian countries as well.”
Cooking was a natural career choice for Puck, he explained. “My mother was a chef, so it’s in my DNA. In this case, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” he said.
Puck emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and setting clear goals. (Supplied)
In addition to the chef’s obvious talent in the kitchen, he has built a worldwide restaurant empire with more than 30 eateries and lounge concepts around the world. Puck advised those who wish to follow in his footsteps to complement their culinary studies with business know-how.
“I always tell aspiring chefs to learn the numbers and the essence of building a financially successful restaurant. (That will) open doors that are closed to so many people,” he said.
As a kitchen team leader, Puck emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and setting clear goals.
“I’m always inspired by young chefs and their willingness to learn,” he said. “If I can help them along the way, I feel as though I am truly giving back to the industry.”
‘I am amplifying our voices,’ Miss Lebanon says ahead of Miss Universe pageant
Nada Koussa has a psychology master’s and wants to raise awareness of mental health during conflict
Contest is a way for Lebanon to remain ‘visible on the international stage, rather than being marginalized’
Updated 12 November 2024
Saffiya Ansari
DUBAI: Miss Lebanon Nada Koussa is preparing to compete at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico on Nov. 16 and she told Arab News why she is participating while her country is “enduring unimaginable suffering” under Israel’s bombardment.
The Miss Universe competition has contestants from more than 130 countries competing, with Koussa among a handful of candidates from the Middle East.
“Representing Lebanon on the international stage is always important, and it becomes even more crucial in times of crisis,” she said.
The Miss Universe competition has contestants from more than 130 countries competing, with Koussa among a handful of candidates from the Middle East. (Getty Images)
Israel’s attacks on Lebanon have killed more than 3,000 people in the 13 months of fighting along the border, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health on Nov. 5.
“At first, I hesitated, as I felt leaving would mean stepping away from my humanitarian work — supporting displaced individuals and providing psychological aid in schools and shelters.
“However, by participating in the Miss Universe competition, I am amplifying our voices as Lebanese people who are enduring unimaginable suffering,” the contestant explained in a written response from Mexico.
Koussa hails from the village of Rahbeh in Lebanon and has a master’s degree in clinical psychology.
She was crowned Miss Lebanon in July by a judging panel consisting of eight women: actress Razane Jammal, model and fashion blogger Nour Arida, interior designer Diane Ghandour, model and socialite Georgina Rizk, Dr. Petra Khoury, socialite Paola Pharaon Rizk, TV presenter Raya Abirached and restaurateur Mireille Hayek.
Koussa hopes to use the Miss Universe stage to highlight the importance of mental health, especially during times of crisis and conflict.
“Lebanon has endured many hardships, and I am dedicated to raising awareness about the need for psychological support for those affected by trauma,” she explained.
“Since the onset of the conflict, I have focused on providing mental health support to families most impacted, visiting schools to assist both children and adults,” she added.
Koussa joins Miss Egypt Logina Salah and Miss Bahrain Shereen Ahmed from the Arab world. All three are currently in Mexico on a promotional tour before the pageant kicks off this week.
“This is also a way to ensure that Lebanon remains visible on the international stage, rather than being marginalized,” Koussa said.
DUBAI: The Michelin Guide will make its debut in Qatar next month, with a launch ceremony scheduled for Dec. 12 at Katara Hall, Raffles Doha.
It will mark the first time restaurants in the Qatari capita have been recognized by the prestigious culinary guide.
International director Gwendal Poullennec said: “The Michelin Guide, renowned for its meticulous and independent reviews of dining establishments, has been exploring Doha’s vibrant culinary scene.
“Our famously anonymous inspectors have thoroughly reviewed the city’s top eateries, from the bustling Corniche to the luxurious hotels and diverse restaurants representing cuisines from around the world. We are delighted to finally announce the Michelin Guide’s arrival in Doha.”
To mark the event, an exclusive cocktail reception will feature guest chefs presenting signature dishes and demonstrating their expertise. These will include representatives of Alleno Paris, awarded three stars in the 2024 Michelin Guide France; Jordnaer, which holds three stars in this year’s Nordics guide; and BO Innovation, which is recognized with two stars in the 2024 Hong Kong guide.
Oscar winner Viola Davis to be honored at Jeddah’s Red Sea International Film Festival
Updated 12 November 2024
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: Academy Award-winning actress and producer Viola Davis and Egyptian star Mona Zaki will be honored at this year’s Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, set to run from Dec. 5-14 under the theme “The New Home of Film.”
Jeddah's newly inaugurated Culture Square is the main venue for this year’s festivities. RSIFF will showcase a lineup of 120 films from 81 territories and host a program of talks, screenings, and awards honoring luminaries in the film industry.
This year the festival will honor two women in global cinema: Egyptian actress Mona Zaki and Academy Award-winning US actress Viola Davis.
Davis is a producer and the co-founder of JVL Media, an initiative dedicated to bringing diverse narratives to the screen, will also be recognized. During the festival, JVL Media will take part in RSIFF’s Souk, an industry-focused market dedicated to fostering cross-cultural storytelling and collaboration. The Souk will bring together 75 companies from 18 countries, with JVL Media joining in both the marketplace and the industry talks program, which will delve into storytelling trends and funding opportunities within the region and globally.
RSIFF will showcase a lineup of 120 films from 81 territories and host a program of talks, screenings, and awards honoring luminaries in the film industry. (Hashem Nadeem)
This UNESCO Heritage site, with its coral stone buildings and colorful rawasheen latticework, offers a unique blend of heritage and modernity, creating an immersive cinematic experience.
Mohammed Asseri, RSIFF Acting CEO, said: “The new venue in Jeddah’s historic district blends modern design with rich history.”
Shivani Pandya Malhotra, managing director of the RSIFF, highlighted the foundation's comprehensive approach to supporting the film ecosystem, saying: "We're not just about the festival — we have a range of initiatives like the Red Sea Souk, which serves as an industry hub for business, connections, and discovering new films. Through Red Sea Labs, we provide vital support to regional filmmakers, offering programs like residency opportunities, feature film development, and collaborations with Film Independent for TV series projects. The Red Sea Fund further empowers filmmakers by offering partial financing for their films and TV series.”
Addressing the challenges regional filmmakers face in breaking into the international scene, Shivani emphasized the importance of telling authentic local stories from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world, Africa, and Asia.
(Hashem Nadeem)
"We believe in the power of these stories and are committed to giving filmmakers the platform to share them. Through Red Sea Labs and the Souk, we provide structure, pitch opportunities, and connect filmmakers with international buyers, distributors, and sales agents. Our goal is to create an organic space where projects can be discovered and supported,” she said.
RSIFF 2024 will open with “The Tale of Daye’s Family,” an Egyptian-Saudi co-production directed by Karim Shenawy, telling the inspiring story of Daye, a young Nubian albino boy with a powerful voice who faces adversity while journeying from Aswan to Cairo to audition for “The Voice.”
Johnny Depp-directed “‘Modi, Three Days on the Wing of Madness” will be this year’s Awards Night Gala film while the fourth edition’s closing film will be “Better Man,” directed, co-written, and co-produced by Michael Gracey. The biopic reimagines the journey of British pop icon Robbie Williams—from boy band fame to tabloid scandal and his return to the spotlight.
In addition to these highlights, the festival will present a competitive lineup, including “Maria,” directed by Pablo Larrain and starring Angelina Jolie as opera star Maria Callas, and “We Live In Time,” featuring Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. Hollywood star Danny DeVito is expected to attend the gala screening of “A Sudden Case of Christmas.”
Kaleem Aftab, director of international programming at RSIFF, said, “When selecting films for the Red Sea Film Festival, I first look for emotional resonance, if a film connects with me personally, it often connects with audiences in Saudi Arabia. Our theme this year, The New Home of Film, draws inspiration from home, both literally and metaphorically. It's about finding films that embody that feeling of belonging. We also seek films that are culturally relevant, with themes of change and modernity, especially as Saudi Arabia undergoes its own transformation.”
‘Marvels of Saudi Orchestra’ headed to Tokyo this month
Updated 11 November 2024
Arab News
DUBAI: Following performances in Paris, Mexico City, New York and London, the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” will bring its musical showcase to Tokyo on Nov. 22. The event – to be held at the Tokyo Opera City – marks a celebration of the Kingdom’s musical heritage and a collaboration with Japan, uniting diverse traditions through the universal language of music.
The evening will feature the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir performing alongside the Gagaku Orchestra Imperial Court Music of Japan and the Orchestra Academy of Tokyo College of Music.
The program will encompass traditional Saudi compositions and classical Japanese pieces, highlighting the depth and diversity of both nations’ musical legacies. A special guest performance by renowned Japanese guitarist HOTEI will further enhance this evening of musical synergy.
Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Music Commission, said in a statement, “Music has a unique ability to transcend borders and create connections. Through the ‘Marvels of Saudi Orchestra,’ we are thrilled to share the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia with the world, fostering deeper understanding and friendship through shared artistry.”
Organized by the Saudi Music Commission, one of the eleven cultural commissions under the Ministry of Culture, the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” global tour embodies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural exchange and musical excellence.
‘Art of the Kingdom’ takes contemporary Saudi creations to a global audience
Work of 17 artists showcased to coincide with G20 Summit in Brazil
Honors our past, says Mona Khazindar, advisor at Culture Ministry
Updated 11 November 2024
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Museums Commission will inaugurate “Art of the Kingdom,’ the country’s first traveling contemporary exhibition, at the historic Paco Imperial building in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this week.
The exhibition from Nov. 13 to Jan. 12 runs under the theme “Poetic Illuminations” and seeks to offer international audiences a look at Saudi Arabia’s evolving contemporary art scene.
The exhibition from Nov. 13 to Jan. 12 runs under the theme “Poetic Illuminations.” (Supplied)
Launching to coincide with the upcoming G20 Summit in Brazil, “Art of the Kingdom” features the work of 17 artists, each representing a range of generations and styles, with mediums spanning paintings, installations, and video art.
The artists featured are Sara Abuabdallah, Ghada Al-Hassan, Ayman Yossri Daydban, Ahmed Mater, Emy Kat, Ayman Zedani, Shadia Alem, Nasser Al-Salem, Manal Al-Dowayan, Lina Gazzaz, Muhannad Shono, Sarah Brahim, Daniah Alsaleh, Faisal Samra, Filwa Nazer, Moath Alofi, and Ahad Al-Amoudi.
The “Art of the Kingdom” show will travel to Riyadh in early 2025, where it will be showcased at the Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art in the JAX district. At the end of the year, it will be presented at the National Museum of China in Beijing.
Launching to coincide with the upcoming G20 Summit in Brazil, “Art of the Kingdom” features the work of 17 artists. (Supplied)
Mona Khazindar, advisor at the Ministry of Culture, in a written response to questions from Arab News, stated that the exhibition “is a testament to the profound impact that art has on our understanding of history, culture and community.
“It not only honors our country’s past and collective memory, but also demonstrates the dynamic role art plays in connecting us to our shared identity, inspiring creativity and dialogue for generations to come.”
Curator Diana Wechsler, in her response to questions, said “every exhibition must open new horizons for its audience, offering an experience of discovery and challenging habitual thinking.
The exhibition from Nov. 13 to Jan. 12 runs under the theme “Poetic Illuminations.” (Supplied)
“Exhibitions, to me, are also experiences of knowledge. This is especially important here, as this exhibition is the first to showcase a group of contemporary Saudi artists abroad.
She added: “The exhibition is the result of extensive research from which its central themes emerged. I visited many artists, most of them based in Saudi Arabia, and engaged in deep conversations about each artist’s creative experience.
“It was an immensely stimulating journey for me, and I hope this exhibition provides viewers with a similar path of understanding through its selected works.”
Through “Art of the Kingdom,” the museums authority aims to empower Saudi artists by highlighting their work globally. (Supplied)
Wechsler chose Nasser Al-Salem’s “Arabi/Gharbi” (“Arab/Foreigner”), with its large neon Arabic script, to both open and close the exhibition.
Wechsler explained: “This piece offers viewers both a question and a clue: what does this neon signify? It creates a symbolic boundary between the contemporary Saudi experience and the cultural framework of the audience.
“Through each piece, the exhibition unfolds like a revelation — a poetic illumination — exploring various facets of a captivating culture where past and present, tradition and transformation, are interwoven.
“Arriving at the end of this journey and encountering Al-Salem’s neon again, I imagine the audience will see it differently, their horizons broadened by the journey they have taken.”
Through “Art of the Kingdom,” the museums authority aims to empower Saudi artists by highlighting their work globally. It also seeks to establish the nation’s presence in the global art landscape, and foster cross-cultural appreciation and dialogue.
Launching to coincide with the upcoming G20 Summit in Brazil, “Art of the Kingdom” features the work of 17 artists. (Supplied)
The exhibition centers on two primary themes: the desert as a symbol of vastness, infinity, and life’s depth, and the singularity of Saudi cultural traditions as seen through the evolution of visual culture.
Artist Muhannad Shono said: “As Saudi Arabia now invests in its arts and cultural expression, and strives to invite the world in, it’s important that this cultural dialogue does not flow in one direction, but to also reach outwards in an honest and equal exchange of ideas with the world.
“My role is to continue to express and imagine, not only in my country but beyond its borders … bypassing the perceived lines that separate us and divide.”
Artists Sara Abu Abdallah and Ghada Al-Hassan, a mother and daughter team, are presenting a collaborative piece.
In a joint written response, they said their work, “Horizontal Dimensions,” explores “intergenerational complicity, the notion of home, urban transformation, and shared dreams and visions, bridging personal history with contemporary dialogue.
“As mother and daughter, we have always shared a creative bond, and this project allowed us to combine our voices and artistic visions to express something greater than the sum of its parts.
“By presenting this work at such a significant exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, we hope to contribute to the global conversation on cultural exchange and the evolving narratives of our region.”
