I went to not one but two cultural events this past weekend. In a country where culture is largely defined at the mall or in a chain restaurant, this was refreshing.
On Thursday night, we went to the "Last night of the Proms" based on the larger event in London. A musical evening at the Embassy, the Brits, true to form, threw a great party. After a concert of largely classical pieces, it ended with a flurry of patriotic English songs ("Rule Brittania" still rings in my head). Then the lovely gardens and lawn were transformed into a huge dance party with excellent fish and chips, English beer and a full bar. It did not feel like we were in Kuwait in the least.
Today, I went on a tour of the Arab Funds Headquarters, which houses the Arab chapter of the World Bank, OPEC, and other regional bodies. It is billed as the best of the best Arabesque architecture in the region, and we were not disappointed. By far it was the nicest thing I have seen in Kuwait. For photos, go to http://www.arabfund.org/aohq/KUWAIT.HTM Those pictures will undoubtedly put mine to shame. The craftsmanship and quality of materials were unforgettable.
These two outings should buoy me until we get to our first break of the school year next week. Everyone is tired and a change of scenery for us in Muscat will be most welcome.
No comments:
Post a Comment