Theatre meets tradition at Al Sedra restaurant, where a spectacular new folklore show brings Bahrain’s cultural heritage to life through immersive performances, music and delectable dining.

Al Sedra restaurant, located in Muharraq Souq right next to the iconic Pearling Path, is bringing Bahraini heritage to the table with Al Sedra Folklore Show – a new dining experience that celebrates local culture through traditional musical theatre performances. Running every Thursday and Friday until mid-December, the show invites guests to enjoy a meal while watching tales from Bahraini folklore and traditions brought to life.

Directed by renowned Bahraini artist Juma’an Al Ruwaiee, the show begins at 8pm and unfolds around the diners in unexpected ways. Rather than staying confined to a single stage, performers emerge from different corners of the restaurant, transforming the entire venue into a moving story. According to Juma’an, the concept was to create a new way of showcasing local art and folklore.

After exploring the venue, he saw the potential to turn the space into an immersive experience for diners. With its rooftop terrace, outdoor stage and both indoor and outdoor seating, Al Sedra provides an ideal setting. Large outdoor projectors and TV screens inside the restaurant display short films and scenes that connect the performances and enhance the storytelling, allowing all guests to follow along, even those who don’t have direct stage views.

The show revisits scenes from Bahrain’s history, particularly the pearl diving era that once defined the nation’s livelihood. Audiences will see the rhythmic dance of divers heading out to sea and hear Toob Toob Ya Bahar sung as families welcome them home. The show also captures local matchmaking rituals and the Zafa or Jilwa pre-wedding ceremony with songs like Ameena fe Amaneeha. The performance closes with a groom’s wedding procession through his neighbourhood to the house of his bride, as well as the traditional Liwa dance.

“I want the audience to feel nostalgic and remember the good old days of Bahrain,” says Juma’an. “I also want non-Bahrainis and people from different nationalities to learn about the Bahraini culture and history of the Kingdom.”

The production features 20 to 24 male and female performers from the Shabab Al Riffa Band, a professional ensemble known for their knowledge and experience in cultural arts. Behind the scenes, the creative team includes project manager Ahmed Jassim, choreographer Ismael Morad, music director Abdulla Rashdan and videographer Yousif AlSayegh.

Dinner is served during the performance, offering Bahraini and international dishes with set menus starting from BD18 per person, alongside à la carte options. With free valet parking and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Al Sedra Folklore Show offers a nostalgic evening that gives visitors a deeper understanding of the island’s traditions and cultural heritage. ✤

GO: CALL 3999 6645 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.