One huge orchestra and a very festive weekend at Etihad Arena
If your idea of a perfect December involves Disney classics, huge movie soundtracks and a live orchestra, you’re going to want to know about this.
Disney+ Live in Concert is coming to Abu Dhabi from 18 to 20 December, bringing four much-loved films to the big screen at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, with the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra performing the soundtrack live.
The concert series is being presented by Proactiv Entertainment, in collaboration with Disney Concerts, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, and has been specially curated for audiences in the UAE.
And yes, there are some seriously nostalgic titles on the line-up.
The three-day series kicks off on Friday, 18 December, with Encanto.
Expect all the colourful Colombian magic of the Disney favourite, complete with its hugely catchy soundtrack and, of course, the song you definitely haven’t been able to escape since 2021: “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”.
Then things get even more nostalgic on Saturday, 19 December, with two films in one day.
First up is Frozen, complete with the Oscar-winning “Let It Go”, before Home Alone 2: Lost in New York takes over for a festive dose of childhood nostalgia.
The series wraps up on Sunday, 20 December, with arguably one of Disney’s biggest-ever classics: The Lion King.
You can expect to hear Circle of Life, Hakuna Matata and plenty of big-screen Disney magic, with the film’s iconic music performed live by the orchestra.
Rather than simply watching the movies, audiences will see the full-length films projected on the big screen while the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra performs the scores and songs live in sync with the action.
So when that opening scene of The Lion King arrives, or Frozen reaches that moment, you’ll be hearing the music performed right there in the arena.
The Armenian State Symphony Orchestra is known for its performances across both classical and contemporary repertoire, making it the perfect accompaniment to a line-up packed with some of cinema’s most recognisable music.
And there’s something for pretty much every generation here, whether you’re bringing the kids along for Encanto and Frozen or secretly booking tickets because you still know every word of Home Alone 2.
The timing couldn’t be better, with the concerts arriving just one week before Christmas.
Nicolas Renna, CEO of Proactiv Entertainment, said the collaboration continues the company’s relationship with Disney and will give families and fans the chance to celebrate music, storytelling and the magic of Disney together.
Tamim Fares, Director, Disney+ Middle East, described the series as a new way for audiences to experience Disney’s much-loved stories beyond the screen.
So, whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or simply looking for something a little different to do in Abu Dhabi this December, this one looks set to be pretty special.
AED80. 18 to 20 December, Etihad Arena, Yas Island. For further information, visit etihadarena.ae and platinumlist.net
