Algarabía at Abu Dhabi Festival 2026

• Borja Quintas – Conductor 
• Ignacio Garcia and Jihad Mikhael – Directors 
• Liuba G. Cid – Artistic director 
• Jesús Carmona – Dancer 
• Lucía Campillo – Dancer 
• Cynthya Karam – Singing actress 
• Rafic Ali Ahmad – Poetry 

  Orquesta Sinfónica Universidad de Navarra

A student ensemble based in Pamplona, Spain, the orchestra comprises university-aged musicians and offers students the opportunity to enhance their musical skills within a high-quality symphonic setting.

Under the guidance of esteemed professionals, the orchestra prepares and performs a diverse repertoire, often collaborating with renowned soloists and conductors. Throughout the academic year, the orchestra engages in regular rehearsals that culminate in public performances, showcasing the talents and dedication of its members. These concerts are held at various venues, including the Museum of the University of Navarra (MUN), providing a platform for students to present their work to the public.      In addition to its musical endeavours, the orchestra is a part of the university’s Artistic Talent Programme, allowing students to earn academic credits while pursuing their passion for music. This initiative facilitates the balance between academic commitments and artistic pursuits, enriching the cultural life of the university community.    Borja Quintas     The conductor Borja Quintas has performed in most European capitals and in the Middle East, in countries including Georgia, Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan, conducting some of the world’s finest orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the New Russia Symphony Orchestra.     With scholarships from various organisations, including the Barrié de la Maza Foundation, he studied conducting at the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory under Professor Vladimir Ponkin, earning the Red Diploma of Excellence, a distinction awarded to graduates with the highest academic performance.     He has always combined the symphonic and lyrical worlds, cultivating different genres such as theatre, flamenco, sacred drama and audiovisual media. He has collaborated with artists as diverse as Roque Baños, Kuzma Bodrov, Dmitry Krymov, Lucas Vidal, Lucero Tena, Valery Sokolov and Ara Malikian, and has worked with singers including Plácido Domingo, Javier Camarena, María Bayo and Ainhoa Arteta, among many others. He has also immersed himself significantly in 20th and 21st-century music, recording for labels such as Naxos.     Strongly committed to young symphonic ensembles as a driving force of art and social change, he is currently the artistic director of the JMJ Symphony Orchestra, Choir and Children’s Choir, the University of Navarra Symphony Orchestra, the CSMA Symphony and Philharmonic Orchestras and the UCAM Symphony Orchestra.      Quintas also teaches orchestral conducting at the Aragon Conservatory of Music and is academic director of the Katarina Gurska Higher School’s Master in Conducting programme. He was recently invited to serve as a jury member at the Second Sergei Rachmaninov International Conducting, Composition and Piano Competition in Moscow.    Jesús Carmona     Jesús Carmona was born in Barcelona in 1985. He is a dancer and choreographer, and one of today’s most internationally recognised figures in Spanish dance and flamenco. A graduate of the Institut del Teatre, he joined the Ballet Nacional de España becoming principal dancer in 2007.    After leaving the company, Carmona developed a celebrated career creating works such as Ímpetus, Baile de Bestias (Max Awards 2022) and Súper-Viviente. In 2023, he founded the Ballet Español of the Community of Madrid and successfully launched its first season at Teatros del Canal.      He has performed at top venues such as Sadler’s Wells, Lincoln Center and the Bolshoi Theatre, and has been honoured with major awards, including the Spanish National Dance Prize (2020), the Benois de la Danse (2021) and the Ojo Crítico Award (2019). His work blends technical mastery with a contemporary, emotionally resonant vision of flamenco and Spanish dance.

How to get there?
Detailed information on how to reach the venue is provided in the event descriptions. Be sure to check there for directions and transportation options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

What should I take with me?

• Tickets: Bring your entry tickets, either in print or digital form on your phone, for a smooth entry experience.
• Valid Photo ID: Carry a valid photo ID like your passport for identity verification.
• Cash and Card: Have some cash for small purchases; many vendors also accept cards.
• Open Mind and Adventurous Spirit: Come with enthusiasm and an open mind to embrace new experiences and create lasting memories.

Things that are forbidden

• Illegal Substances: Absolutely no illegal substances are allowed on the premises.
• Weapons: Weapons of any kind, including items that could be used as projectiles, are strictly prohibited.
• Restricted Items: Do not bring laser pointers, permanent markers, felt-tip pens, scissors, or aerosol canisters.
• Drones: Drones or any other remote-controlled devices are not allowed.
• Illuminating Objects: Glow sticks, LED signage, and similar illuminating objects should be left at home.

Dress Code:
Classy and fancy attire is welcome, but feel free to dress in a way that makes you comfortable and confident. Choose an outfit that lets you relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Be yourself, express your style, and enjoy every moment!

Age restrictions
Age restrictions for events may vary. Please check the specific guidelines by clicking on the "Buy Tickets" button for detailed information.

Food & Beverages
A variety of food and drinks are available, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. There’s something for everyone, ensuring attendees stay refreshed throughout their visit.

Is there parking?
Yes, there is parking available. Attendees have the option to park their vehicles conveniently at or near the venue, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and departure experience.

Is it accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes, it's accessible to people with disabilities. The organizers prioritize inclusivity and ensure that venues are equipped with facilities to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Accessible seating areas, ramps, and other necessary accommodations are in place, allowing everyone to enjoy the event comfortably. But please contact us for more details before booking.

Is it possible to take food from outside?
No, bringing outside food is not allowed. Attendees are kindly requested to enjoy the variety of food and beverages available inside the venue. Please note that food is not permitted during performances.

Can I smoke?
Smoking is not allowed in general areas. However, there are designated special zones where smoking is permitted. If you wish to smoke, please use these designated areas to ensure compliance with the event regulations and the comfort of all attendees.

Can I take photos?
No photography allowed during the performance inside theatre.