Embarking on a journey that transcends time and terrain, AlMultaqa's Chamber Orchestra found an extraordinary muse nestled in the heart of Sharjah's Central Region – Al Madam. This quaint town, steeped in history along the Dubai-Hatta and Mleiha-Shwaib roads, not only captures the essence of Emirati culture but also echoes with the whispers of Afro-Arab heritage.
In our quest for a backdrop that resonates with the soul-stirring melodies we create, Al Madam became the canvas for our chamber orchestra musicians' photo and video shoot. The decision to choose this unique location was deliberate – a tribute to the rich history that lay silent within its sandy embrace. The strip development along the E44 leading to the famed 'Big Red' sand dune added a touch of modernity to the town, while the annual shopping festival brought vibrancy to its streets.
Venturing further into the desert, we discovered a hidden gem – a deserted development of houses and a mosque known colloquially as Madam Old Town or Ghost Town. Here, amidst the echoes of time, our musicians found inspiration in the solitude of the abandoned structures, creating a harmonious blend of past and present.
Al Madam, with its rich archaeological sites and ancient aflāj, served as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of the region. The juxtaposition of the traditional wedding hall and the 'first shopping mall' against the backdrop of Iron Age relics added depth to the visual narrative we sought to capture.
In the eastern shadows of the town, the C19th Fili Fort stood as a silent witness to the evolving tales of Al Madam. Our musicians, instruments in hand, forged a connection with this historic landscape, infusing it with the timeless notes that define AlMultaqa's cultural resonance.
Through this journey, AlMultaqa's Chamber Orchestra not only found a captivating location for their visual narrative but also paid homage to the rich tapestry of history that Al Madam represents – a timeless testament to the Afro-Arab heritage that echoes through the sands of Sharjah.
Image Credits: James Kervin, Alexandra
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