The award winning World Vision Korea Children’s Choir ended its tour of Kuwait and the UAE at the weekend with concerts in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
After two successful shows in Kuwait, the choir thrilled audiences - including staff of the Korean embassy - at Brighton College in Abu Dhabi and then at the Sultan bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation in Dubai.
Under the artistic directorship of the conductor Hee Churl Kim, the choir sang traditional Korean folk songs as well as performing traditional Korean dancing.
There was a special performance from pianist, Stefano Rover, who had flown over from Italy especially for the concerts.
The tour’s organiser, Gina Kim, was delighted with how the choir was greeted. “It was marvellous to have them here in the UAE,” she said. “Let’s hope this can be the start of a series of concerts by Korean artists.”
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has just returned from a tour of South Korea to strengthen ties between the countries, and Ms Kim said: “Sheikh Mohammed’s visit shows there is a strong connection between the two countries and it is a bond that is bound to grow stronger. I hope events like this can help cement that bond.”
Formed in 1960, the choir’s aim is to spread hope and love around the world. It has performed in 27 countries and won numerous awards, including the “Let The People Sing” competition held by the British Broadcasting Corporation.
The conductor, Mr Hee, said: “I was an honour to be here and I thank the people of the UAE for their support. I am very glad that we showed them just how talented our children are.”
CWhebell@thenational.ae
