- HRH Princesses Lalla Khadija, Lalla Meryem, and Lalla Hasnaa Join Brigitte Macron for Historic Inaugural Gala
RABAT– In a dazzling celebration of Moroccan artistry and global cultural dialogue, the Royal Theater of Rabat—an iconic architectural masterpiece—unveiled its doors Wednesday evening in the presence of Their Royal Highnesses Princesses Lalla Khadija, Lalla Meryem, and Lalla Hasnaa, alongside Brigitte Macron, former First Lady of France.
Attend Opening Show of Rabat Royal Theater
The occasion was nothing short of historic: a proud testament to the unwavering High Care of His Majesty King Mohammed VI toward the arts, and a bold declaration that Morocco is rising as a premier international cultural destination.
A Royal Welcome Fit for a Landmark
Before taking their places in the Royal Box, the Princesses—joined by Mrs. Macron—were warmly received by members of the Royal Theater Foundation’s Board of Directors. Princess Lalla Hasnaa, who serves as President of the Foundation, stood at the heart of an evening that radiated elegance, heritage, and forward-looking creativity.
Theater in Rabat
The evening opened with a cinematic tribute to the Royal Theater itself—a structure that embodies the cultural and artistic renewal of the capital. Under the enlightened Leadership of His Majesty the King, this architectural jewel will elevate Rabat to the ranks of the world’s most celebrated cultural capitals, reinforcing Morocco’s role as a crossroads of civilizations and a champion of universal values.
An All-Moroccan Musical Triumph
After a stirring rendition of the national anthem by the orchestra and choir, the audience embarked on an extraordinary artistic journey—powered entirely by Moroccan talent.
The program showcased the breathtaking diversity of the Kingdom’s musical soul:
- Marouan Benabdallah enchanted with classical piano repertoire
- Ahlima Mhamdi, mezzo-soprano, soared through major operatic arias
steeped in Moroccan sounds
From Tchaikovsky’s concertos to arias by Bizet and Verdi, seamlessly woven with Andalusian motifs and a modern Moroccan touch, the evening fused universal masterpieces with national heritage—a symbolic embrace of Morocco’s open, creative spirit.
A Historic Union on Stage
For the first time ever, two of Morocco’s most distinguished ensembles performed together: the Morocco Philharmonic Orchestra, nearing its 30th anniversary, and the Royal Symphony Orchestra, celebrating 20 years of excellence.
Under the masterful baton of conductor and concert pianist Dina Bensaïd, 76 musicians and 40 choristers united in a shared artistic triumph—a once-in-a-lifetime moment that echoed far beyond the theater walls.
triumph
At the close of the performance, Their Royal Highnesses and Brigitte Macron greeted the evening’s stars: Samira Kadiri, Ahlima Mhamdi, Dina Bensaïd, Marouan Benabdallah, Driss El Maloumi, and Younes Terfas, director of the Royal Symphony Orchestra.
A Gathering of Luminaries
Hundreds of distinguished guests filled the hall—Moroccan and international artists, cultural figures, intellectuals, theater and visual arts professionals, alongside ambassadors, chargés d’affaires, and representatives of international organizations accredited in Rabat. Their presence underscored Morocco’s growing stature as a hub for global cultural exchange.
More Than a Theater: A Symbol of a New Morocco
Nestled in the heart of the Bouregreg valley, the Royal Theater of Rabat completes a legendary landscape alongside the Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum. Together with the Mohammed VI Tower, it forms a striking symbol of the capital’s renewal—in perfect harmony with His Majesty’s visionary development program:
“Rabat, City of Light, Moroccan Capital of Culture.”
Under His Majesty King Mohammed VI, culture is not merely celebrated—it is a pillar of national development and progress. And with the opening of the Royal Theater, Morocco invites the world to witness a Kingdom where tradition and modernity perform in perfect harmony.
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
