Dubai Opera’s Gala Evening: A Celebration Amidst Controversy
*By Norman Lebrecht
September 24, 2025*
Dubai’s cultural landscape will soon experience a significant event as the renowned Italian cultural manager Paolo Petrocelli, currently at the helm of Dubai Opera, prepares to host a star-studded gala evening titled “Stars of the Century.” Scheduled to honor the tenth anniversary of the Dubai Opera, this event features some of the most illustrious names in classical music, including conductor Valery Gergiev, legendary tenor José Carreras, and the celebrated soprano Hilba Germazova.
However, the gala is not without its controversies. Gergiev has been a notable figure in music circles, yet his close ties to the Kremlin and the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding Russia’s influence in Ukraine raise eyebrows. Petrocello’s decision to include Gergiev in the line-up of performers has sparked fierce debate within the artistic and cultural communities. Critics question whether a celebration of music can co-exist with a platform that, in some interpretations, lends itself to tacit approval of controversial political regimes.
Yet, as the opera industry’s complexities continue to evolve, the intersection of politics and art becomes increasingly urgent. This event, designed as both a musical celebration and a reminder of the cultural heritage shared across borders, is emblematic of the struggles faced by many artists and concert venues today. Indeed, the gala’s title—”Stars of the Century”—invites reflection on the past, signaling a nostalgic embrace of a golden era in music juxtaposed against the backdrop of a turbulent twenty-first century.
The Dubai Opera itself has become an emblem of the city’s vision for a modern cultural hub, following its grand opening in 2016. The exquisite venue, inspired by traditional Arab dhows and strikingly modern architecture, sits at the heart of the city’s ambitions to elevate its status as a leading global destination for the arts. The opera house has hosted performances ranging from classical music and ballet to contemporary shows, attracting visitors from around the world.
The decision to stage a gala featuring such pivotal figures in classical music raises both anticipations of musical excellence and discussions surrounding cultural diplomacy. Can art transcend politics, or is it inextricably linked to the ideologies of its time? The inclusion of figures like Gergiev—whose repertoire includes a multitude of works that elevate the human spirit—raises this important question, compelling patrons and performers alike to dissect their relationship with the political landscape.
Gergiev, a conductor who has worked with celebrated orchestras worldwide, is not simply a musician; he embodies the complexities of cultural representation in an era defined by conflict and division. His unwavering support for Vladimir Putin and Russian policy has placed him in a precarious position, rendering concerts in his honor a flashpoint for political discourse amidst artistic celebration.
The participation of renowned artists such as Carreras and Germazova also reflects a desire for solidarity within the arts community. Carreras, celebrated for his moving interpretations, has long been an ambassador for musical philanthropy, while Germazova has distinguished herself not merely through her vocal prowess but through her profound connection to her homeland, an element increasingly fraught with tension given current events.
In the face of all this, the Dubai Opera gala offers an opportunity to engage in a dialogue about the role of cultural producers in today’s world. As audiences gather in anticipation of a night of spectacular performances, they will inevitably be invited to reflect on the broader implications of their support for such events and the artists who shape them.
Ultimately, Petrocelli’s ambitious endeavor to blend a night of exceptional artistry with the complexities of modern geopolitics signals an important moment for cultural institutions globally. As the conversation around artistic patronage becomes more nuanced, we stand at a crossroads where entertainment, political discourse, and cultural identity converge in a single prestigious venue. What remains to be seen is whether “Stars of the Century” will shine brightly, illuminating the path towards understanding and reconciliation, or merely highlight the shadows that linger over the modern artistic landscape.
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