Take a seat: How Jalsa is giving Abu Dhabi's emerging artists a stage
On a well-lit stage at Manarat Al Saadiyat, a single white plastic chair sits beneath the lights. It may look unremarkable, especially if you grew up in the Middle East. But for the organisers of Jalsa, it is a symbol of what they are trying to build: a place where anyone can take a seat, take the microphone, and be seen. Jalsa, which is Arabic for gathering or a sitting, is a series of events…
In the heart of Abu Dhabi, a single white plastic chair at Manarat Al Saadiyat stands as a testament to Jalsa, an initiative aimed at giving local artists a stage. Jalsa, which translates to gathering or sitting in Arabic, is a series of events that brings the city's creative community together and provides a platform for emerging talent to perform.
Founded by three friends—Hamad Al Shamsi, Preston Dcosta, and Abdullah Al Shamsi—Jalsa has hosted four editions so far, attracting over 2,000 attendees and featuring more than 100 performers. The events, which take place at Manarat Al Saadiyat, are divided into four chapters: The Majlis, The Desert, The Sea, and The Stars. Each chapter draws inspiration from a different aspect of the UAE's history and culture, creating a diverse and immersive experience.
The event's inclusivity is evident in its open audition process, which welcomes performers of all ages and backgrounds, from three-year-olds to musicians from across the globe. Jalsa's appeal extends beyond just the performances; it offers emerging artists a stepping stone to pursue their careers, free of charge. The team behind Jalsa aims to secure funding to expand the community and support a wider range of creative fields, emphasizing their commitment to making the open mic accessible to all.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
