Royal Princesses and Brigitte Macron Grace the Opening Night
On the evening of April 22, 2026, a splendid celebration of art and culture unfolded at the newly inaugurated Royal Theater of Rabat. The event was graced by Their Royal Highnesses Princess Lalla Khadija, Lalla Meryem, and Lalla Hasnaa, alongside French First Lady Brigitte Macron, marking a significant moment in the cultural landscape of Morocco. This iconic venue symbolizes the unwavering commitment of His Majesty King Mohammed VI to promote the arts and cultural heritage of the Kingdom. Prior to taking their seats in the Royal Box, the Princesses, along with Mrs. Macron, were warmly welcomed by members of the Board of Directors of the Royal Theater Foundation, setting a tone of camaraderie and cultural appreciation for the evening ahead.
A Cultural Renaissance in the Heart of Rabat
The opening show commenced with a compelling film that highlighted the mission and vision of the Royal Theater, an institution dedicated to the cultural and artistic revitalization of Morocco's capital. This initiative reflects the dynamic cultural climate of the nation, inspired by the enlightened leadership of King Mohammed VI, who aims to blend traditional Moroccan art with contemporary creativity. The Royal Theater stands as a beacon for intercultural dialogue and civilizational interaction, contributing to Morocco's growing reputation as a hub for global artistic expressions.
The evening featured a breathtaking performance that kicked off with the national anthem, followed by a diverse array of musical acts. Notable performances included classical pieces by pianist Marouan Benabdallah, operatic arias from mezzo-soprano Ahlima Mhamdi, and traditional Arab-Andalusian music by Samira Kadiri. Driss El Maloumi also shared a contemporary composition inspired by Moroccan sounds, showcasing the rich tapestry of the country’s musical heritage. This unique program, performed exclusively by Moroccan artists, allowed the audience to embark on a remarkable artistic journey, celebrating the nation’s vibrant and diverse artistic scene.
The highlight of the evening was the collaboration between the Morocco Philharmonic Orchestra, celebrating its 30th anniversary, and the Royal Symphony Orchestra, which is marking its 20th anniversary. Under the baton of conductor Dina Bensaïd, 76 musicians and 40 choristers united their talents, delivering an unforgettable performance that merged classical repertoires with elements of Moroccan heritage. This historic collaboration exemplified the power of music to transcend boundaries, harmonizing global influences with local traditions.
As the evening concluded, the royal guests were greeted by a host of esteemed artists, including soprano Samira Kadiri, conductor and concert pianist Dina Bensaïd, and composer Driss El Maloumi, amongst others. The event also attracted hundreds of local and international artists, cultural figures, and diplomats, all coming together to celebrate this momentous occasion in Rabat's cultural calendar. The Royal Theater of Rabat, located within the picturesque Bouregreg valley, stands not only as a new architectural marvel but also as a testament to the Kingdom's commitment to cultural growth and development. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of 'Rabat City of Light, Moroccan Capital of Culture,' a program spearheaded by King Mohammed VI to elevate the city's cultural stature on the global stage.
As reported by maroc.ma.
