Entertainment
Five reasons to experience the magic of the SCRF this weekend
Published
4 months agoon
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The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), a highlight in the UAE’s annual cultural calendar, has returned for its 15th edition. Spanning 12 days and boasting over 1,500 activities, this festival runs until May 12 and promises an unforgettable experience at the Expo Centre Sharjah.
Here are five reasons why you should attend SCRF this weekend:
1. A theatrical wonderland: The SCRF transcends the typical reading festival by offering a rich tapestry of sensory delights. This weekend, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of theatre with performances that promise to mesmerise. Enjoy the melodious voice of Arab sensation Rasha Rizk as she brings anime and cartoon classics to life on May 4. Her performance will be followed by the dynamic Masaka Kids Africana, on May 5, whose electrifying dance routines and infectious energy will captivate your heart. Another theatrical treat, ‘Hum Bhi Agar Bacche Hote’ – storytelling by renowned Pakistani playwright Waseem Badami will be staged at 5pm at the SCRF Ballroom Theatre on Sunday.
2. Workshops for every interest: The festival buzzes with a plethora of workshops that cater to every age and interest. From coding and science to arts, dance, and even cookery, there’s an adventure waiting around every corner. On Friday, for instance, you have furniture making and car making workshops. Mini Fashion shows allow children to design, sew, and display their creativity on the runway. Have a smashing good time at the Smash Room by breaking a collection of goodies such as plates to let off steam.
Dive into the daily agenda and find yourself spoiled for choice, making it tough to pick just one activity.
3. A book haven: Books are the heart and soul of this festival. With contributions from more than 186 publishers, visitors have an unparalleled opportunity to explore vast genres, snap up new releases, and enjoy cosy reading nooks perfect for losing yourself in a good story.
4. Engaging sessions for parents and caregivers: Navigating parenthood in the digital age comes with unique challenges. The festival offers specialised workshops aimed at helping parents and caregivers manage the digital landscape effectively. Parents can head to the Cultural Forum or the Social Media cafe over the weekend to hear from experts including Dr Ahmed Bassiouni and Hamsa Younis on The Role of Family Counseling in Modifying the Behaviour of Children and Youth. There will be sessions on The Importance of Libraries in Promoting Academic Success, and How AI can be used to deliver personalised learning.
5. Culinary delights and creative spaces: Every corner of the festival bursts with creativity and colour, creating a feast for the senses. Let your curiosity lead the way as you explore vibrant halls filled with art and innovation. Don’t forget to indulge in an assortment of cookery programmes, such as, Divine Sushi Sandwich, Parfait blast, Pizza Muffins, Chinese Tea Workshop, South Asian and Middle Eastern Cuisines, and much more. You can rub shoulders or learn from the best chefs during the weekend. Some of the popular chefs hosting workshops over the weekend include Omari McQueen, Imad Al Arnab, Natalia Samoilova, Zaynah Din and more.
Besides, there’s also an array of delicious food options available, from food trucks to gourmet kiosks, ensuring a treat for your taste buds as well as your spirit.
The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival is a haven for children, parents, and anyone with a youthful spirit or an appreciation for creativity. Whether you come for the enthralling workshops, to indulge in literature, or simply to enjoy some quality family time, you’ll depart with a smile, enriched by the joy of shared stories and new discoveries.
Announcements
Global Village announces opening date for Season 29
Published
5 days agoon
September 3, 2024By
SudhashreeSeason 29 of Global Village will kick off on October 16, 2024, the outdoor destination announced. The season will run until May 11, 2025. The popular destination remains closed during the summer months. This year, Global Village is expanding its offerings, featuring more cultural representations, never-before-seen entertainment, and exciting infrastructure upgrades.
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Visitors to the family-friendly destination can experience a diverse range of performances, shopping, and dining experiences from cultures around the world.
Opening more than 25 years ago, the destination set a new record of over 10 million visitors in its 28th season, the longest season to date, hosting 27 pavilions representing over 90 cultures from around the globe, as well as 3,500 shopping outlets and 250 dining options.
The destination is expecting millions of visitors from around the globe to gather for the park’s attractions during the upcoming season.
Announcements
Gaming meets speed: Ferrari launches first-ever esports arena in Abu Dhabi
Published
1 week agoon
September 1, 2024By
SudhashreeFerrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s acclaimed Ferrari-themed park, has once again redefined entertainment by launching the world’s first Ferrari-themed Esports Arena. This state-of-the-art venue is set to become the go-to destination for racing enthusiasts, Formula 1 aficionados, and thrill-seekers alike.
The newly unveiled Ferrari World Esports Arena features an impressive lineup of 20 Gran Turismo simulators, thoughtfully designed to cater to a broad audience. Fourteen simulators are dedicated to adult racers, while six are specifically designed for younger guests, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes visitors of all ages.
The arena also includes three specialised F1 simulators, offering participants the exhilarating experience of sitting in the driver’s seat of a Ferrari race car and racing on legendary F1 Grand Prix circuits, including the Yas Marina Circuit. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, the Ferrari World Esports Arena offers access to the Gran Turismo simulators as part of the theme park ticket until the end of the year. The exclusive F1 simulators are available for an additional fee, starting from Dh60 per race.
Announcements
Privacy and Comfort: Inside Sharjah’s newly announced women’s beach retreat
Published
2 weeks agoon
August 24, 2024By
SudhashreeA new beach, only for women, has been announced in Sharjah under the orders of the emirate’s ruler Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. The 500-meter beach is located in the Lulu’iya area of Khorfakkan and will offer complete privacy for women. The beach will also have other amenities like a cafe, a medical clinic, and a prayer room.
Sharjah Ruler directs allocation of beach for women in Khorfakkan's Al Luluyah area#WamNews https://t.co/CrZULIUb3E pic.twitter.com/YmyKgyHxbj
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) August 22, 2024
Other than this beach, Sharjah has the Sharjah Ladies Club beach and in 2023, Sheikh Dr Sultan announced the development of women’s only beaches in Kalba and at Al Hamariya Beach. In May this year, the Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed launched the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, which includes designating new beaches for only women.
In further orders, the Sharjah Ruler directed the construction of a pedestrian bridge linking Al Bardi 6 and Al Batha areas in Khorfakkan city.
Speaking on the Sharjah’s Direct Line radio programme, Yousef Khamis Al Othmani, Chairman of RTA Sharjah said that the new bridge will help the movement of residents between the two areas.
He also said the RTA will implement modifications to the internal roads in the Hayawa area.