Firdaus Orchestra, the all-women ensemble that thrilled audiences during Expo 2020 Dubai, marks its Expo City Dubai debut with ‘The Best of Firdaus’ inaugural performance on 19 November at Al Wasl Plaza, featuring Academy-award winning composer and the orchestra’s mentor, A.R. Rahman.

Conducted by Yasmina Sabbah, the first in a series of stunning concerts from Expo City Dubai’s resident orchestra will present performances and symphonic compositions by A.R. Rahman as well as Western orchestral harmonies and ancient melodies from the Orchestral Qawwali Project.

Firdaus Orchestra thrives on its cultural diversity, bringing classically trained musicians from 24 nationalities to the Expo City Dubai stage. Comprising women of various ages and backgrounds, it draws inspiration from the region’s centuries-old musical traditions, using instruments such as the oud, rebaba and darbuka, and embodies Expo 2020’s cultural and social legacy as it continues to nurture talented musicians, transform perceptions and inspire all who see them perform.

A.R. Rahman, said: “After several successful live concerts during Expo 2020 Dubai, Firdaus orchestra will continue to enthral with its best yet, and I am thrilled to include a few of my compositions.”

In December, the ensemble will perform a ‘Holiday Symphony’, conducted by Monica Woodman and welcoming Filipino pop star Katrina Velarde, Argentinian-Armenian singer Solange Merdinian, dancers and a local choir, for a show packed with festive classics.

Looking to 2023, concerts will include ‘A Tribute to A.R. Rahman’s Film Scores’, as well as three shows during International Women’s Week in March, featuring special performances by featuring legendary female artists.

Tickets for ‘The Best of Firdaus’ are available at Platinumlist, priced at AED 105-AED 525 and free for people of determination and visitors aged 17 years and under.

In the months since Expo 2020 Dubai closed, Firdaus has released numerous pieces in the digital world and worked with award-winning veteran composer Ilaiyaraaja on an original symphony, set for its global premiere later this year.