The Neapolitan band Ars Nova, a leading exponent of the nu folk genre—blending the traditional melodies and rhythms of Neapolitan and Mediterranean folklore with contemporary musical expressions—achieved great success during its tour of the United Arab Emirates. The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Neapolis2500 Committee, and realised thanks to the collaboration of the Italian Cultural Institute of Abu Dhabi, forms part of the rich programme of celebrations marking the 2,500th anniversary of the founding of Naples.
Ars Nova opened their UAE tour at The Fridge in Dubai, located in Alserkal Avenue, one of the city’s most vibrant cultural districts. This was followed by a second performance at the Amphitheatre of the Cultural Foundation, a prestigious local institution, a third date as part of the Manar Art Festival on Jubail Island and a final performance at Nu Island in Sharjah, as part of the Jazz at the Island festival.
The programme was further enriched by a masterclass for music students organised by the Italian Cultural Institute, featuring an overview of Neapolitan music and a choral performance of a piece by Ars Nova together with the participating students.
“We are delighted that the Neapolis2500 tour included four dates in the United Arab Emirates,” commented the band’s leader, Marcello Squillante. “It is a tremendous pleasure for us to perform here for the first time and to have the opportunity to experience a new culture. We sincerely thank the Ministry and the Italian Cultural Institute for organising and providing logistical support for the tour, which will enable us to meet new musicians and explore new creative horizons”.
