The 18th edition of the Spring of Culture (SOC) festival is upon us, bringing with it a celebration of art, music and literature.

Since its inception in 2006, SOC has been highlighting the Kingdom’s artistic institutions and historical sites, emphasising the importance of preserving cultural heritage. It is organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research and Al Dana Amphitheatre, in collaboration with various local galleries.

What: The 50th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition
When: Ongoing to April 30 | 8am to 8pm (closed on Tuesdays)
Where: Bahrain National Museum
Tickets: Free
The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities is celebrating five decades of pioneering art through a series of exhibitions, workshops, lectures and other programmes. This 50th edition not only pays tribute to historical achievements but also highlights artistic milestones, while showcasing current talent.

What: The Black Blues Brothers
When: February 2 (7pm) | February 3 (5pm) | February 4 (7pm)
Where: Cultural Hall
Tickets: From BD10
Conceived by Cirque du Soleil’s Alexander Sunny, this international sensation combines contemporary circus with musical comedy. With more than 800 performances and 500,000 spectators, it’s earned acclaim at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Monte Carlo International Circus Festival. Don’t miss this acrobatic celebration featuring jumps, somersaults, limbo-dancing with fire, human pyramids and more.

What: Rouh Al Sharq Choir
When: February 6 | 8pm
Where: Cultural Hall
Tickets: Free, limited seating
Rouh Al Sharq was founded in 2020 by Maestro Mahmoud Mohsen at Ain Shams University in Cairo. This choir of 30 talented boys and girls quickly gained fame on social media for their fusion of classic and contemporary songs. Rouh Al Sharq is now celebrated across the Arab world as a symbol of exceptional performance and artistic excellence.

What: Maroon 5
When: February 7 | 8pm
Where: Al Dana Amphitheatre
Tickets: From BD40
Catch the GRAMMY Award-winning powerhouse Maroon 5 at Al Dana Amphitheatre for a night of electrifying music. With more than 95 million albums sold, 650 million-plus singles and RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) certifications in more than 35 countries, the band has charted 32 records on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying their place in music history.

What: I Love Sushi
When: February 8 to 29 | 9am to 8pm
Where: Art Centre
Tickets: Free
Recognised globally for its healthy, refined and aesthetic appeal, sushi embodies washoku, the traditional Japanese cuisine inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List. In collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in Bahrain and the Japan Foundation, sushi takes centre stage in this touring exhibition to showcase Japan’s unique and rich food culture.

What: Leen Al Faqih
When: February 8 | 8pm
Where: Cultural Hall
Tickets: Free, limited seating
Making waves in the music scene, Palestinian-Jordanian, Leen Al Faqih, is renowned for her patriotic songs and humanitarian message, weaving a unique melodic blend of Eastern and Western influences. Backed by a group of skilled musicians, her versatile vocals harmonise Arabic with French, Spanish rhythms and jazz touches for a distinct musical experience.

What: A Thousand Tales Ballet
When: February 9 and 10 | 8pm
Where: Bahrain National Theatre
Tickets: From BD10
Step into the magical world of A Thousand Tales ballet, an internationally acclaimed production featuring beloved characters, such as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Aladdin and more. An unmissable family experience.

What: F1 Bahrain: American Tourist Paints
When: February 11 to 23 | 7pm (Opening), 10am to 6pm (Sunday to Thursday)
Where: Art Concept
Tickets: Free
Discover the artistic fusion of technology and traditional oils by contemporary American oil painter, Erin McGee Ferrell. As a University of New England Design teacher, Erin is a key figure in the C-word International Cancer and Art Exhibition. Her 57 artworks capture the essence of the Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix, demonstrating her innovative techniques and personal experiences as an American tourist.

What: Sands Of Sound: Skygge’s Musical AI Mirage In Bahrain Featuring Bahraini Artist Hasan Hujairi
When: February 13 | 8pm
Where: Cultural Hall
Tickets: Free, limited seating
Led by Benoit Carré, Skygge fuses music with AI and is noted for collaborations with Sony CSL and the Hello World project. The event also highlights Bahraini composer Hasan Hujairi, known for his sound art rooted in academic studies. In collaboration with the Embassy of France in Bahrain, the show promises a unique blend of music and technology.

What: American Hip Hop On Stage
When: February 15 | 8pm
Where: Cultural Hall
Tickets: Free, limited seating
Celebrate 50 years of hip-hop with Frankie Perez, a Dominican American artist known for his journey as a world-class breakdancer and image maker. Join the global festivities honouring this cultural phenomenon that has influenced music, dance and style for over five decades. This event is in collaboration with the US Embassy in Bahrain.

What: Face2Face
When: February 18 | 8pm
Where: Cultural Hall
Tickets: Free, limited seating
International award-winning duo Face2Face (Paweł Janas and Bartosz Kołsut), redefine music genres with their passionate accordion performances. From Europe to the USA, Canada and China, they captivate audiences, showcasing their exceptional talents at global festivals. Participating in grant programmes, including those offered by Dongsan Research Foundation and Société Generale, Face2Face consistently push musical boundaries with charisma and dedication.

What: Mowashahat – The Saudi Arwa
When: February 19 | 8pm
Where: Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research
Tickets: Free, limited seating
Celebrated for her captivating voice and beautiful interpretations of classic Arabic songs, Arwa is making a mark in the world of music as a gifted singer. Her unique performances of rhythmic and poetic Arabic music, particularly the compositions of Abdel Wahab and Umm Kulthum, have earned her special praise, expanding her fan base among devoted Tarab enthusiasts.

What: Tutti In Valigia (Everything In A Suitcase) Luigi Ciotta
When: February 22, 23 and 24 | Various timings
Where: Various locations
Tickets: Free
Nested suitcases create a playful transformation of objects, continuously bringing new scenes to life. This performance blends physical theatre, clowning and circus tricks, involving the audience through Luigi Ciotta’s charming simplicity. In this lively and often poetic production, spectators actively engage with the charismatic character, making it an entertaining experience for all.

What: The Nest
When: February 22 to March 9 | 4pm to 10pm
Where: Al Riwaq Art Space
Tickets: Free
The Nest brings together artists, designers, local businesses and the community to celebrate modern art and design. Located outdoors, this event transforms the neighbourhood into a vibrant gathering spot, showcasing public art displays and installations. Every weekend, Al Riwaq Art Space hosts live events, including music concerts, film screenings and children’s activities, creating a lively atmosphere for all to enjoy.

What: André Rieu & His Johann Strauss Orchestra
When: February 23 | 8pm
Where: Al Dana Amphitheatre
Tickets: From BD20
André Rieu, the acclaimed Dutch maestro and violinist, returns to Bahrain on his latest global tour. One of the world’s most recognised classical musicians, Rieu has spent three decades with his Johann Strauss Orchestra, bringing orchestral music to a wider audience. His unique and highly performative conducting and playing style continues to delight audiences.

What: Tribute To Maestro Giacomo Puccini By The Young Italian Soloists And Singers
When: February 27 | 8pm
Where: Cultural Hall
Tickets: Free, limited seating
The Embassy of Italy in Bahrain presents a centenary celebration of Giacomo Puccini. Renowned for shaping 20thcentury opera, Puccini’s works, such as La Bohème and Tosca, continue to captivate global audiences. Enjoy a special concert with the internationally acclaimed Young Italian Soloists & Singers, honouring Puccini’s legacy with an evening that blends cultural richness and musical brilliance.

What: In Memory Of The Centenary Of Sayed Darwish – Mohamed Mohsen
When: February 29 | 8pm
Where: Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research
Tickets: Free, limited seating
On the 100th anniversary of Sayed Darwish’s death, Egyptian artist Mohamed Mohsen will present a special concert at the Shaikh Ebrahim Center, featuring the great musician’s iconic songs. Renowned for breathing new life into classics, Mohsen won Best Arab Singer at the 2012 Jordan Awards festival.

What: Trevor Noah & Kevin Hart
When: February 29 | 8pm
Where: Al Dana Amphitheatre
Tickets: From BD30
Enjoy a night of wit and laughter with comedy icons Trevor Noah and Kevin Hart. Trevor’s insightful humour and Kevin’s infectious energy promise an unforgettable evening of comic relief. Don’t miss this must-see event as these comedic giants share their unique perspectives, stories and undeniable talent. ✤

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