YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE BD 2.000 (SR 20) HAPPENINGS ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV February 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 2 www.bahrainthismonth.com Romeo and Juliet A Lover’s Tale Annual Telecom Review Al A’ali Mall Art Fest Amwaj Marina Market Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com Shakespeare 4 Kidz HOME SUBSCRIBERS COPY
LTE first LTE launch in Bahrain VIVA is proud to be the first telecom company in Bahrain to introduce 4G LTE, the latest technological evolution in broadband. Live every moment with the fastest broadband provider in the Kingdom.
BTM February 2012 5 Cover Story: 40 A Lover’s Tale Romeo and Juliet is the quintessential love story, set in Verona, in what is now modern-day Italy. Its appeal remains in the constancy of the subject matter. Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of February 2012: 23 Cultural Extravaganza: Get set for the Spring of Culture 28 Art Fest: Al A’ali Shopping Complex in arts makeover 30 A British Classic: It’s all about Annie 34 Through Modern Eyes: Inspired by the past 40 A Tale Foretold: Shakespeare 4 kidz is back in town 42 Bolting Ahead: Horse riding at Twin Palms 23-42 Calendar: Events during February Spotlight: 54 An Exercise in Reality Engaging in voluntary work is often an extremely liberating experience, as Dr Mohamed Shahda recently discovered on a visit to a refugee camp in Somalia. Business: 57 An Industry Insight One of the largest business exhibitions, Gulf Industry Fair, returns this month, showcasing a range of products and services from a multitude of business sectors. 58 Igniting Innovation The name of this new organisation is impressive — The Firm. The objective is quite simple, to nurture new businesses through intrapreneuring. 60 Poised for Growth It is not just the insurance market that offers growth opportunities for businesses in the Kingdom, says Mahmoud Al Soufi. But it’s time for local businesses to think big. Bystander At BTM we parlayed our way into a host of parties to celebrate the start of 2012, from the Crowne Plaza to Dublin, from the Mövenpick to JJ’s Irish Restaurant. We also sampled the Indian delights at Yellow Chilli, the new lounge bar at the Kempinski Hotel and the latest car launch from Zayani Motors. How could we possibly miss the air show, the highlight of the past month? 40 26 58 60 23 81 54 Issue 174 Contents February 2012
BTM February 2012 7 2012 Telecom Review: 63 It’s All About Speed We will soon be able to access the Internet and engage in social media activities at the same speeds as others around the world, courtesy of LTE and 4G. 2012 SME Review: 73 Finessing the Opportunity Life for a new business is tough at the best of times; securing the financing to kick-start an idea is often no less important than finding the right marketing strategy. Downtime: 77 Extremely Talented: Sandra Bullock on the up 78 Gadgets: Bringing back yesteryears 81 Music: Pretty bulls in red 82 Computer Games: Shooting is all the rage 83 DVDs: Guarding ideas 84 Websites: Letters of learning 85 Movies: Iron lady in the shadows 86 Sat TV: Angry boys and real steel Motoring: 97 Re-engineering a Master: Porsche Carrera S 98 Test Drive: McLaren MP4-12C 99 Showcase: MINI Roadster Dining: 105 Valentine’s Day: Where to spend the evening 106 Happenings: Where to dine this month 108 Showcase: Trader Vic’s 117 Restaurant Listing: Find your ideal venue After Dark: 119 Music from the Heavens: Albert L at Bushido 120 Happenings: Where to be seen this month 122 Showcase: Bedrock 125 Venue Listing: The ‘in’ places to be Showcase: 129 What’s New: Sweet cheeks 150 Marketplace: Latest products and services 34 38 42 141 WIN WIN 142 Tarotscope 143 AD Index 144 Last word Issue 174 Contents February 2012 63 98 105 119 134
Tom Tom crew 16th - 17th March ArAd fort +973 3990 0630 1st March - 16th april 2012 the pulsing energy of hip-hop meets the raw physicality of acrobatics in an astounding mash-up of gravity-defying manoeuvres, astonishing beat-boxing, improbable contortion and dynamic drumming. having thrilled audiences through the UK, Europe, the Us and canada, tom tom crew brings their unique brand of urban acrobatics to Bahrain’s audience. a show where skill and athleticism meet urban artistry.
BTM February 2012 9 Dear Readers, The telecommunications industry, which we feature this month, has always been one that has fascinated me. Highly competitive, it has to be a great business in which to work with its constant innovation and the pervasive impact that it can have on our lives. The ability of this industry to do just that was brought home to me by a couple of ‘events’ over the past month. At a dinner party my host commented that his young son had stopped asking to see his friend’s toys when visiting his house; he was now asking to see his iPad! During the course of a recent meeting, the client’s phone rang; it was his five-year-old calling to have a chat on his mobile. She had now learnt how to dial his number. It got me thinking; 15 years ago had my elder daughter had the same access to mobile phones as we do today, how different our lives would have been. The thought of what might have been is unimaginable! In this issue we also look at small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The past year has certainly been a challenge; a key issue for these businesses has always been to migrate from a simple sales process to one that incorporates a proper marketing strategy. As we ate dinner at the aforementioned party, a mesmeric and monotonous ‘dink’, ‘dink’ sound started to emanate from upstairs. My host’s son had sneaked an iPad into his bedroom and was playing a LEGO app under his bedcovers! Of course, this ubiquitous building-brick company, years ago on the brink of extinction, is now on a winning streak from a truly inspired marketing plan. No longer do they target just children. Instead, branded versions of LEGO sets from some of the most successful films ever, such as Stars Wars, are now being devoured by adult males. Keen to ensure that they have anything and everything associated with their favourite ‘flick’, LEGO has been able to tap into a brand new market segment. Stories and examples such as these can only offer us hope for the future. Mahmoud Al Soufi, interviewed in our business section, puts it this way, “.. enterprises need to think out of the box.” As our happenings pages demonstrate, there is plenty to do around town this month, and to enjoy the great way of life the Kingdom has to offer. The team Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: [email protected] Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: [email protected] Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editors Alison Coldridge Elma Bartholomew Staff Writer Maryam Toorani Contributors James Claire (dining) Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Dalal Al-Sabbagh, Romeo San Miguel, Rodolfo A. Reyes Jr. Staff Photographers Shankar Kunhambu, Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Sales Manager Mayukh Majumdar Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos Circulation Manager Fawaz Al Balooshi Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Rafeeq Mohammed, Gopal Arul Kumar, Epegenio Tempra Jr. Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: [email protected] Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain Published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P.O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place St., Helier Jersey JE48JJ, Channel Islands, U.K. Red House Marketing P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: [email protected] www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission. • Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3 1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request. Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE BD 2.000 (SR 20) HAPPENINGS ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV February 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 2 www.bahrainthismonth.com Romeo and Juliet A Lover’s Tale Annual Telecom Review Al A’ali Mall Art Fest Amwaj Marina Market Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com Shakespeare 4 Kidz February 2012 Bahrain This Month George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman Cover Cover Picture: A lover’s tale — Romeo and Juliet. www.facebook.com/bahrainthismonth Join us on Facebook If you are wondering what this image to the left is, or the one on the front cover, it’s a QR code. To find out how to use these, read page 140.
10 February 2012 BTM bystanderthismonth Bahrain International Air Show 2012 His Majesty King Hamad officially opened the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS 2012) at Sakhir Air Base held last month. His Majesty also went through the trade area, and visited chalets of participating companies. His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, also attended the event, along with dignitaries, VIPs and thousands of visitors His Majesty King Hamad at the Batelco chalet with Batelco chairman Shaikh Hamad Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, 3rd from left, Shaikh Mohammed Bin Isa Al Khalifa, 2nd from left, Batelco board director Ali Engineer, 4th from left, Batelco chief executive Bahrain Rashid Abdulla 5th from left, & Batelco Group GM Media Relations Ahmed Al Janahi, 1st from left HE Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamed Al Khalifa with visitors and guests at the Bahrain International Air Show Captain Ibrahim Al Hamer, Bahrain Air Managing Director, in conversation with journalists at the Bahrain Air chalet HE Captain Abdulrahman Al Gaoud, Civil Aviation Affairs Under-Secretary, 3rd from left with His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and the Prime Minister and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on the right, with VIP guests touring the Bahrain International Air Show His Majesty King Hamad being welcomed by Bahrain Air staff members at the event His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa & HE Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister tour the show Naeem Mahamoor & Richard Nuttall Hussain Anita, Raihana & Anusha Naeem with Mr & Mrs Frank Ryde Yasmin & Manal Faisal & Hisham Capt Jonathan & Capt John Muneera & Fatima Mohammed, Rashid & Monte Badriya & Marie Khalid, Mohammed & Isa Sabika & Manal
12 February 2012 BTM bystanderthismonth Crowne Plaza New Year's Eve Ball The Crowne Plaza held a sensational 1001 Arabian Nights style party at the hotel's Bahrain Conference Centre. Guests enjoyed an evening of fine food, dancing and excitement to bring in the New Year Pascal Eggerstedt & Ebrahim Kooheji Ron, Iro, Mireille, John & Badia Emma Domenico, Paola, Patricia & Kais John, Wendy & John Jasmine, Dorsa & Kaitlynn Samantha & Nadine Abbie & Katie Harry & June Ali, Janessa, Chandran, Ebrahim, Marivic, Ruth & Ameer Rosalie & friends Sorcha, Ann Marie & Jasmine Abdullah & Harima Karim & Yasra Arnie & Mayz Lara & Jana Molly & Ailbhe Alex & Olivia Lisa & Dina Gillie & Peter Pascal & Viera Maria Iro, Ebrahim & Ron
14 February 2012 BTM bystanderthismonth Zayani Motors Showroom Launch Hamid Al Zayani, Zayani Motors chairman and Nawaf Al Zayani, Zayani Motors managing director, on behalf of the company, held a reception to celebrate the launch of the new Zayani Motors Truck & Bus showroom at the Mitsubishi FUSO Showroom located next to Zayani Motors, Ma'ameer Kai-Uwe Seidenfuss, Dr Albert X. Kirchman, Hamid Al Zayani & Nawaf Al Zayani Rashid & Khalid Al Zayani Kai-Uwe, Dr Albert, HE Tomoko Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, Khalid Al Zayani, Mohammed Kooheji & HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador Nawaf Al Zayani Mohammed Salahuddin Nawar, Seddiqa, Layla, Zahra, Safa & Noor Cader, Mohammed, Mohammed & George Anoop Kewalram & Nabeel Ajoor Joseph, Hussain, Sayed & Jamal Jassim bin Mohammed Azmiya, Safiya & Marwa Fatema, Layla & Adele Hussain & Jamal Hanya & Nada Kumar & Anand Mirza Zahra, Zahraa & Sana George with Mohammed Zaki Rajesh, Raffas & Jamshid
16 February 2012 BTM bystanderthismonth DHL Reception To Mark Bahrain's National Day DHL hosted an exclusive musical evening at the Gulf Hotel’s Convention Centre to celebrate Bahrain’s National Day. The event was attended by members of the ruling family, diplomats, VIPs and by DHL's major clients in Bahrain and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Noor Sulaiman & Shaikh Ahmed bin Ali Al Khalifa HE Capt Abdulrahman Al Gaoud, Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs & Shaikh Ahmed Nejib with Abir Ali Maya, Hisham & Suha Hamid Al Zayani, Afnan Al Zayani, HE Nabeel Al Hamer & Anan Kanoo Eman & Salwa Jassim Al Zayani Daby, Wahid, Khalid & Eman Rihab & Noor Noor Sulaiman & Sameer Al Judiabi Dr Dhafer Al Umran & Rodolphe Fayzeh, Ola & Nazly Tarek, Maya & Yulia Fadi & Nisrin Nariman Rafik & Maged Mohammed Sabra & Najwa Raslan Mr Al Sayas & Mr Al Banki Dr Umran & Dr Jihan Al Umran Kiki & Maher Hala, Nessrin & Nancy Souda, Najwa, David, Shaima, Fawaz & Bless
18 February 2012 BTM bystanderthismonth Bangladesh Festival 2011 The Bangladeshi Embassy in association with the Bangladesh School Bahrain and the Bangladeshi community organised the Bangladesh Festival 2011 to celebrate the Victory Day of Bangladesh and the National Day of Bahrain. The event was held at the Bangladesh Embassy in Ghufool Mehdi Hasan, Thatree & Mohammed Radia, Nadia & Nasreen Abul Kassim Noyon, Nadeem & Fahad Raju & Khalid Masumbilla & Hassan Reshmi & Aklima Rawda Araful, Rahal & Pranto Krish, Salman & Faisal Sumaya, Nishat & Abul Nadia & Nahid Nayan, Nawaz, Mojub & Yahir Fareeda, Nandina & Nehal Bithy, Antara, Aysha, Sanjana & Afra Jassim & Kamal Nasima, Sadia & Sapna Arun, Imam & Mohammed Shahid & Kalam Ghulam, Shiraz, Saleem & Nazurul Jahangir, Gazi, Reza, Mizan, Azad, & Basha Musthafa
20 February 2012 BTM bystanderthismonth Pregith & Presita Wedding Reception Pappan (K.N. Padmanabhan) and Geetha Padmanabhan hosted a wedding reception for their son Pregith & wife Mamta and their daughter Presita & husband Shiv at the Al Taj Ballroom, Sheraton Hotel, Bahrain, last month Shiv, Presita, Mamta & Pregith Mohan Das, Ganga, Jamuna & Ramachandran Sadiq Dawani & Pappan Shreya, Sreeja & Ramesh Athul, Mini, Benny & George Mamta & Tina Usha, Sneha & Shankar Pradeep, Pregith, Mani & DJ Ibbi Praveen, Papita, Sabita, Mamta, Pregith, Presita & Shiv Pappan, Mark & El Shantharam & Ashalatha Maya, Tony, Praveen, Rahul & Praveen Valsala & Unnikrishnan Sasi, Jose & John Shiv, Presita, Dr Hanan, Mamta & Pregith Papita, Dearbhla & Sabita Priya, Malayalam movie star Suresh Gopi & Dr Sreekumar Pappan, Abdulla Juma & Mohan Das Geetha, Pappan, Pregith & Mamta
22 February 2012 BTM bystanderthismonth Golden Tulip New Year's Eve Party The Golden Tulip Bahrain held a fun filled Red Ball New Year's Eve party at the hotel's Gilgamesh Ballroom. Guests enjoyed an evening of fine food, dancing and excitement to bring in 2012 Golden Tulip New Christmas Lunch There were a number of guests who enjoyed a tradional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings at the hotel's Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant last month Monica, Leni, Michel, Pascal & Denise Ian & Graham Kidizzle, Lilo, Barbara & Matilda Matthias & Claudia Martin & Amy Martha & Greg Syika, Tanya & Zoia Paul, Will & Hani Amy & Emily Kim & Vicky Dave & Charlie Myra & Gem Briony Jessica, Becky & Georgia Rachael, Adam & Sofia Michel, Olivier & Sam Sammy, Susan, Rommel & Ryan Lucienne, JB & Isa Thibault, Nicolas & Gyorgyi Hannah, Sam & John Jack, Ace & Paul Sanya & Michael
BTM February 2011 23 Ignite your inner artistic fever with the events taking place at the Spring of Culture festival. Indulge in theatre, art, poetry, dance and many other visuallyspectacular performances. Next month will signal the arrival of the 7th Spring of Culture festival in Bahrain, complete with a rich and diverse program that promises to excite people of all ages. This year’s festival will get you out and about and involved in the arts with more than 35 events taking place, each catering for different tastes. Included within the programme are intellectual seminars and performances such as singing, theatre, dance, visual arts, from regional and global artists and groups. One of the festival’s primary programmes is in education. A number of international groups will be performing and conducting workshops for children, teachers and parents, including acts such as Dan Zanes & Friends, Tom Tom Crew and Tap Dogs. These educational events are all free, but places do need to be reserved in advance. One visiting performance is Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, which is based upon a popular American picture book and has been written for the stage by the same author, Mo Willems. “The story is highly engaging, for children aged three upwards, and captures simple and essential truths. An everyday incident is used and expanded into a lesson,” explains the Knuffle Bunny team. “We believe that the arts are important to the development of well-rounded and creative individuals in today’s global society. It gives children and young people a sense of their own particular culture as well as global culture. With a play, children can imagine themselves on the stage, and it becomes a way of looking at the world in a different way,” the team continues. “We received an invitation from the Spring of Culture organisers and the team instantly recognised it would be great for all concerned. We hope that the children, teachers and parents enjoy the show as much as American audiences have,” they explain. Knuffle Bunny has been running since May 2010, a Kennedy Centre commission and has since toured throughout America and received positive feedback. “We will also be participating in the education programme at the festival by leading workshops for young people and teachers to spread ideas and teaching methods about the arts,” outlines the team. The festival is being organised this year by The Economic Development Board in joint collaboration with Sheikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research, The Ministry of Culture, Albareh Art Gallery and Al Riwaq Art Space. The festival will support local charities and groups within the community programme, in particular by supporting orphaned and disabled children in Bahrain. They will be offered tickets to the shows or will be visited by the performers and organisers. The entire festival has also been created to be as ‘green’ as possible, with a huge emphasis on being environmentally friendly wherever possible. E Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org. Also this month 34 x Arts & Culture - 38 x Clubs & Societies - 40 x Teens & Kids - 42 x Sports & Recreation happeningsthismonth When? March 1-April 23 | Event? Spring of Culture | Venue? Various venues throughout Bahrain World days Celebrate the world days in style this February. When? February 4 Event? Cancer day Consider how you can help those affected by this common disease. When? February 11 Event? Day of the sick Do a good deed for someone you know who isn’t well. When? February 12 Event? Darwin day Celebrate the father of evolution by remembering his contributions to science. When? February 14 Event? Valentine’s Day Here’s your chance to tell your loved ones that you love them! When? February 20 Event? Social Justice day Decide what you can do to help those with no rights or power. When? February 21 Event? Mother language day Return to your roots and speak your birth language all day. When? February 22 Event? Inconvenience yourself day Put yourself out slightly to help someone else have a better day. Knuffle Bunny A Cultural Extravaganza
24 February 2012 BTM happeningsthismonth When? Throughout February Event? Quran contest Venue? N/A Memorise, recite and interpret the Quran in your own way. E Call 17 812-815. When? February 2-4 Event? Musical Venue? The British Club Children take to the stage for a all-singing all-dancing production of Annie. E Call 17 728-245. When? February 4 Event? Amwaj Marina Market Venue? Amwaj Islands Shop outdoors with stalls packed with food and all kinds of consumer goods. E Call 16 030-605 or 16 030-607. When? February 6 and 7 Event? Workshop Venue? Adliya Learn how to ‘Empower Thyself’ and regain power over your own life. E Call 16 030-605 or 16 030-607. When? February 10 Event? Speed weekend Venue? BIC Experience the best regional racing in addition to family activities. E Call 17 450-000. When? February 10 and 11 Event? Diva Festival Venue? Amwaj Islands Lagoon Enjoy browsing the vendors’ products in the great outdoors. E Call 36 226-440. When? February 17-21 Event? Jikiden Reiki lessons Venue? Bahrain Wellness Centre A renowned guru teaches Japanese treatment method for body and mind. E Email [email protected]. When? February 26 Event? Leadership seminar Venue? BIHR Renowned leadership expert Robin Sharma hosts the half-day event. E Call 36 048-699 or 39 986-580. Building the Future As the chosen place this year for UNESCO’s cultural capital programme, Manama continues the initiative this month with a celebration of architecture. Throughout February, a number of diverse events will be held in various locations to encourage Bahrain residents and visitors to gather an understanding and appreciation of architecture. A specially erected pavilion in Bab Al Bahrain Square will be home to the majority of the month’s events. The month kicks off with an exhibition opening on February 7 at the National Museum, followed by the opening of the newlyrenovated Suq Al Qatssariya in Muharraq to be held on February 11. Next is the launching of the exhibition for the Bab Al Bahrain open ideas competition along with the announcement of the competition winner. February 16-18 plays host to a number of talks and discussions from architectural experts held in the pavillion, followed by a workshop led by urban planners and architects on February 24-25. Two screenings are also open to all throughout the month. The first, on February 20 will be a showing of Hamad and the Pirates, a Bahrain-filmed production about a pearl diver. A documentary titled Home about the diversity of life on Earth will be screened on February 27. To complete the month’s schedule is a talk by Rem Koolhaas, a Pritzker prize-winning architect, on February 28. E Call 17 298-712. Story Time If you’re keen for your child to show more interest in literature, take them along to a reading event this month. The English Project at the British Council is organising the second community event as part of the ‘Kids Read’ on Saturday 25 February from 10am-2pm. The project is planned and delivered by British Council, sponsored by HSBC and implemented at six governmental primary schools. The event provides the opportunity for young learners aged between 5-12 to listen to stories in English and be involved in educational activities. Parents are also invited to participate in the event to share this lively experience with their kids. There will be activities for both young learners and parents. Admission to the event is free. E Call 17 266-166. Family Musical It’s claimed that children and animals are hardest to deal with in theatre and Annie uses both. Five months have been spent getting the near-50 cast members — the majority are children — into shape to reproduce this classic musical. A tremendous amount of work has gone into the music, set design and costumes (each child has had their own costume made, and some have two or three changes) and the stars of the show, who vary between six and 17 years-of-age, are all part of the group MASK (Music and Stage for Kids). The musical will be staged over three days at the British Club and tickets can be purchased from Alosra in Saar, The British School of Bahrain and The British Club. E Call 17 728-245. When? February 2-4 | Event? Musical | Venue? The British Club When? February 25 | Event? Reading event | Venue? Central Hall, Al A’ali Shopping Complex When? Throughout February | Event? Manama Capital of Arab Culture | Venue? Various
Tel. 17.564444 - Fax. 17.564466 email: [email protected] Seef district, facing Ritz Carlton Entrance - Palace Palms Bldg.
26 February 2012 BTM happeningsthismonth When? April 17-19 | Event? Health and Wellness Expo | Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre The Health and Wellness Expo is set to be a major three-day spectacle with industry experts shedding light on nutrition and general well-being. The exhibition aims to promote holistic lifestyle practices that will make a positive difference in your day-to-day living. Simply put, the goal of the event is to increase awareness for GCC residents on how to live a good and healthy life and to give industry professionals a platform to achieve maximum exposure for their brands, gain networking opportunities and increase revenue. This year’s show will feature interesting seminars on healthy eating and lifestyle changes, alongside activities for the kids, healthy cooking demonstrations and live sports and fitness shows. Plus, don’t forget there will be a massage and a beauty zone — for those of you who wish to get relaxed and made over! Last year’s event saw international and regional exhibitors participate including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, India, Thailand and Cyprus with a range of buyers, retailers, importers, exporters, distributors and doctors of all sectors. An even wider range of exhibitors are expected this time ranging from the top hospitals and heath care facilities to hotels and the best in fitness and spa centres. The products and services exhibited will include those of natural skincare products, aroma treatments, health care diets and products, fitness and exercise and much more. Aside from the main stage and demonstration area, exhibition-goers can also participate in the health screening activities, enjoy a number of healthy food samplings at live cooking stations and also take part in the event’s competitions to win a spa weekends for two. Industry professionals on the other hand can meet fellow industry colleagues and suppliers, attend workshops, generate new leads for their businesses, consolidate business connections, demonstrate their products and launch new ones. Food and Hospitality Expo The Food and Hospitality Expo will be held simultaneously with the Health and Wellness exhibition; organisers are expecting to attract visitors from all over the region. Gulf Air will be the official carrier, while Tamkeen will be the event’s strategic partner. The 4th annual Food Expo is the Kingdom’s largest gathering of food, beverage and hospitality industry professionals. The event will bring together an international audience of buyers, retailers, distributors and food and beverage professionals. This year will also see live cooking stands, with local chefs, and a wide range of activities for the entire family. It will be a great way to learn how to prepare healthy and nutritious meals without too much drama, cost or time. E Call 17 558-894. A Healthier World Two exhibitions in April are designed to create and maintain a healthy mindset and a good physical condition throughout the year.
28 February 2012 BTM happeningsthismonth An innovative scheme has been created to bring together talent from across the Kingdom. Art Fest aims to give artists the opportunity to feature their exhibits and expects to showcase artworks from both established and upcoming artists for the public to view and purchase. You will be able to get your hands on a huge variety of pieces, including paintings, sculptures, fashion designs, music, photographs, calligraphy works and even pottery items. Synonymous with the saying ‘art transcends barriers’, the organisers hope to amalgamate the various different cultures on the island. The objective is to transform the shopping complex into a canvas to create a living gallery with different forms of art that would inspire, captivate and enthral the people who visit the Art Fest. The Art Fest also aims to raise funds through the sale of art by the various artists and donations of up to 20 per cent will be made towards various charitable causes in the country. In an effort to inspire creative minds, different workshops will be held by renowned artists on all of the four days of the event. The purpose is to provide expert guidance and teach techniques that will help budding artists in their pursuit of the art and workshops in painting, ceramics, photography, calligraphy and much more will be held. There will also be a photography contest open for all ages to enter, which will be judged by a panel of experts for the chance to win great prizes. E Call 3 9994-858. A unique and exciting art event will be held next month at Al A’ali Shopping Complex, as the venue plays host to one of the Kingdom’s largest artistic events; Art Fest 2012. Artistically Made AL A’ALI SHOPPING COMPLEX When? March 7-10 | Event? Exhibition/contest | Venue? Al A’ali Shopping Complex bystanderthismonth Ferrari Track Day At The BIC The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) played host to a very special motor sports event last month, where Ferrari owners from Bahrain and Kuwait participated in Emozioni in Pista, an annual track event involving a series of driving activities. The event was organised by Euro Motors, the official importer of Ferrari in the Kingdom Bahrain, and AlZayani Trading Company, the official importer of Ferrari in Kuwait The Pilota instructors - mission accomplished Meher & Maram On the track Young Ferraristi enthralled Ready to go! The Ferrai FF on display On the podium, Bashar, Hussain & Majeed
30 February 2012 BTM happeningsthismonth World renowned leadership expert Robin Sharma will be in town to inspire those seeking to maximise the performance of their management and staff. Author of the best-selling book The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, Robin Sharma has worked with over five million employees in 62 countries. This month he is hosting a half-day seminar for Bahrain’s most engaged and proactive leaders, based upon his latest work — Lead Without A Title: Winning Leadership Lessons to Build a Great Organisation. During the last 15 years, Robin has helped organisations and Fortune 500 companies such as Nike, FedEx, Royal Bank of Scotland, Microsoft, IBM, RIM, Yale University and NASA build their leaders maximum potential. Robin is one of the most widely-read experts of our time, and his 11 leadership books have been published in nearly 70 languages in 60 countries. “In these uncertain economic times, exceptional leadership is more important than ever — actually it’s your number one competitive advantage. I love to visit the Middle East, with its dynamic, fast evolving and multicultural business environment, it’s a fascinating part of the world and I am very much looking forward to meeting with business leaders from across the region,” says Robin. Organised by the Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail, the seminar will focus on helping leaders to achieve their highest potential in the challenging business environment faced at this time. Topics will include eight peak performance tactics to achieve world class work in busy times, specific tactics that the best companies do to get even better and the four keys to a high performance team and winning culture. E Call 36 048-699 or 39 986-580 or visit www.bihr.com.bh. Inspiring Employees BAHRAIN INSTITUTE OF HOSPITALITY AND RETAIL When? February 26 | Event? Seminar | Venue? Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel bystanderthismonth Blues Concert At La Fontaine The La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art held a Blues concert featuring international renowned Blues vocialist Dana Gillespie, who was accompanied by Joachim Palden Joachim Palden & Dana Gillespie Marion & Claudia Thilo & Marina Shaikha Hind, Shahrazad & Huda Dr Mariam & Farida Rebecca & Simon Shahila & Hassan Koos & Georgia Hesham, Mahmood & Dana Chris Nada, Fay & Samia
32 February 2012 BTM happeningsthismonth It’s almost Valentine’s Day and for those of you looking to buy something unique for that special someone, head down to the Amwaj Marina Market! Offering visitors a unique shopping experience, the Amwaj Marina Market is now on everyone’s radar. The goods on offer this month include clothing, jewellery, shoes, children’s books, Home Electronics, decorations and even furniture. If you’re on the verge of sprucing up your home, then the assortment of traditional arts and crafts as well as paintings and frames from Sheema frames and National Photo Services are what you need! Shoppers can also get a bite to eat from Pizza Inn, Tony Luke’s, some fresh falafel or chose from a delicious range of baked goods, Baskin Robins. Savvy dieters can indulge in healthy smoothies and tropical fruits, and Al Ghalia Farm’s organic fruits and vegetables will be available. The market offers a way to get the most out of the great weather before the temperatures start to rise. Besides the stunning Amwaj Marina views, you can catch performances by Aces Taekwondo School along with complementary boat rides, courtesy of Yamal Boats throughout the day. Kids can enjoy bouncy castle, balloon twister and rides, as well as trying their hand at creativity at the Studio Ceramics stations. Henna and face painting will also be openand pets can be spoilt with treats courtesy of Tails and a photoshoot courtesy of Pet Arabia. The outdoor markets are scheduled to be held throughout the cooler months on the first Saturday of each month, weather permitting. Stalls are rented out for a competitive price and can be shared. E Call 16 030-605 or 16 030-607. Shop in the Sun AMWAJ MARINA MARKET When? February 4 | Event? Amwaj Marina Market | Venue? Amwaj Islands bystanderthismonth Boudoir Lounge Launched At The Kempinski The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre and Stephen Kaminski, general manager, hosted an exclusive party to launch the hotel's Boudoir Lounge last month Pooja, Catherine & Hilary Maria & Ibrahim with guests Waleed Al Sharif & Ilhame Gizem & Burak Ibrahim & Catherine Ray & Tony Khalid Al Amin Svetlana & Catherine Nigel, Annelise & David Vivian, Shandra & Marco Maria
34 February 2012 BTM happeningsartsculture Albareh Art Gallery is known for its showcasing of unique and pioneering artists, the latest of which explores interpretations of existing works and places around the world. Internationally known artist, Mohammed Omar Khalil, will display 15 differing artworks this month at the Albareh Art Gallery. Six of the works follow in the path paved by his previous exhibition “Paolo Uccello, The Battle of San Romano”. The pieces were created by Mohammed to represent the victory of the Florentine army over the Sienese in 1432 and are an interpretation of works completed originally by a Florentine merchant in 1456. In addition, he will showcase a series of six artworks on his favourite country, Morocco; two of them on the city of Fes and four works on Marrakesh. Mohammed is recognisable for drawing inspirations from different and rather eccentric sources; films, books, music, and places he visits. At this exhibition visitors will get a look at his latest artwork, inspired by the film Birdman of Alcatraz. The film is a story of a murderer who was sent to Alcatraz prison and became fascinated by canaries, treating them, breeding them and observing their behaviour. Born just a few kilometres from Khartoum, Mohammed studied here and later taught at the School of Fine and Applied Arts. He pursued further studies in fresco painting and printmaking in Florence. Later, Mohammed moved to New York where he still lives, works and teaches. Having attained worldwide recognition, the artist’s works now grace many collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris; Jordanian National Museum, Amman; Brooklyn Museum, New York; and the Museum of Modern Art, Baghdad. The exhibition will run Saturday to Thursday from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm. A start for art As part of their latest initiative, the Albareh Art Gallery has launched an e-newsletter titled ABCAD (Albareh Centre for Art, Design and Visual Culture). The concept is the brainchild of founders Hayfa Al Jishi, Hazem Taha Hussein and Jamal Al Yousif and manifests the ideas of ‘Remix, Redesign and Reassemble’. The newsletter will be distributed on a monthly basis, highlighting the gallery’s upcoming events and artists’ news. “ABCAD will focus on amalgamating the old with the new, the local with the international and channelling the creativity within to produce non-banal artworks that are creative and that fit within the global philosophy of today,” explains Bisan Saleh. The project will also offer creative programs for businesses to help them achieve their corporate social responsibility targets by designing tailor-made creative art programmes that will engage the community and encourage businesses to put arts on their agendas. E Call 17 717-707. When? February 1-25 Event? Exhibition Venue? National Museum A display of hundreds of contemporary artworks from 70 Jordanian artists. E Call 17 298-744. When? February 1-10 Event? Exhibition Venue? National Museum Bahraini artists display their idea of women in the contemporary social world. E Call 17 298-744. When? February 1, 2, 8, 15 and 22 Event? Exhibition Venue? La’artier, Seef Mall View mosaic creations by artist Faiza Saeed followed by a series of workshops. E Call 39 329-675. When? February 1-March 10 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum A collection of Arab artworks from early 20th century to 21st century. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 5-29 Event? Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Mohammed Omar Khalil continues his Battle of San Romano exhibition. E Call 17 717-707. Snake charmers of Jamaa Al Fanaa Through Modern Eyes When? February 5-29 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Albareh Art Gallery
36 February 2012 BTM happeningsartsculture When? February 12-31 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? La fontaine centre Parisian Cinema Discover a world of French cinema culture this month with Alliance Française’s movie screening. Adie Gary revolves around conscientious Francis, his recently-freed ex-con son Samir, neighbour (and Francis’s illicit lover) Maria and her imaginative son José — who deals with all this by escaping into a Wild West fantasy world where his father is cowboy hero Gary Cooper. Also showing this month is Itinéraires, directed by Christophe Otzenberger. All the Cine Club’s movies play on Thursday and start at 7.30pm. E Call 17 683-295. When? February 9, 16 and 23 | Event? Movie Screenings | Venue? La Maison Jamsheer Through the Glass Rays of Light Exhibiting her mosaic creations, Faiza Saeed’s creative zeal continues to astonish us as she breaks boundaries by moulding artistic trends into mosaic masterpieces. The artist was trained by legendary British mosaic artist Emma Biggs, and the twoday exhibition will be followed by a series of workshops by the artist. E Call 39 329-675. Irina Averinos will be holding her first solo art exhibition this month. Titled ‘Sun Splashes’, Irina’s artwork reflects the beauty of nature in her work and uses a wide spectrum of colours to evoke harmony. Her paintings are warm and sunny with use of natural light and they carry a positive energy, evident to the eye. Born in Tuapse, the Russian city on the Black Sea Coast, Caucasus, Irina works primarily with oil painting. The artist chooses a classical style which aptly expresses reality and has been trained by masters from different art schools. Her artistic education is always built upon through experimenting with other mediums and techniques. The exhibition opening will start at 4pm where visitors can meet the artist and light refreshments will be served. The exhibition will run every day from 8am to 1pm and from 4pm to 8pm. E Call 17 612-576. When? February 18-March 31 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Café Eastern Echo La fontaine centre of contemporary art will be host an art exhibition by the Japanese artist and architect Tatsuo Yamamoto. Titled ‘Resonance’, the concept is based on bamboo groves and reeds in the wetlands, where invisible winds and vibrations in the surrounding air cause branches and leaves to shake. Nature becomes the instrument — and creates sound as light and shadow intertwine. The exhibition will comprise installation sculptures and furniture — and for the opening night, two very well-known Japanese drummers will animate the evening as well as causing the artworks to vibrate to the drummers’ beat. E Call 17 230-123. When? February 7-27 Event? Exhibition Venue? National Museum An exhibition that explores the evolution of Japanese architecture. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 11 Event? Exhibition Venue? Suq Al Qayssaria See the unveiling of the newly renovated suq in Muharraq. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 12 Event? Exhibition Venue? La fontaine A sculptural installation from Japanese artist and architect Tatsuo Yamamoto. E Call 17 322-549. When? February 16-March 1 Event? Bab Al Bahrain competition Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square View the opening of the BAB Ideas competition exhibition and the winner. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 17 Event? Talk Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Brush up on your architectural knowledge from experts in the field. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 18-March 31 Event? Exhibition Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Irina Averinos displays natureinspired pieces in her solo exhibition ‘Sun Splashes’. E Call 17 298-712. When? February 20 Event? Screening Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square An open air cinema showing of Hamad and the Pirates, filmed in Bahrain. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 24-25 Event? Workshop Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Architects and urban planners give workshops on a public space theme. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 27 Event? Screening Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Screening of the documentary Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 28 Event? Lecture Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Hear award-winning architect Rem Koolhaas talk. E Call 17 298-750. When? February 1, 2, 8, 15 and 22 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? La’artier, Seef Mall
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38 February 2012 BTM happeningsclubssocieties Alison Coldridge A considerable amount of residents in Bahrain are British; it’s not a surprise, therefore, to find that The British Club is a regular hot spot for many of the island’s residents. Priding itself on providing ‘a home away from home’, The British Club has built a reputable name for itself in the impressive 75 years it has been functioning. The club provides a great networking platform for expats, and don’t worry, you don’t need to be British! With its impressive figures — there are currently almost 2,000 members — the club is becoming more of a popular daytime, evening and weekend hangout for all people of all ages. These statistics are hugely helped by the diverse range of annual and special events that are planned throughout the year, giving members and guests the chance to experience anything from theatre to jazz concerts to parties. Action this month This month the British Club has a number of varied spectacles up its extensive sleeve; of course February comes hand-inhand with Valentine’s Day, and the club is celebrating with a lavish three-course candlelit dinner. Members and guests can be wined and dined in the Ascot restaurant whilst listening to live entertainment from Kristofer James, a young singer from the UK. Also on the agenda is the chance to catch the vintage, and outrageous, movie The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The film will be screened at 8pm in the Windsor room on February 16. Dressing up as Dr Frank-N-Furter, Magenta, Janet, or any of the other characters from the film is mandatory and audience participation will be expected and encouraged. This event is free to members and BD2 for guests. A specific kid’s event has also been planned in the form of a campout, letting the little ones enjoy a perfectly safe night on under the stars on February 24. An evening BBQ will be provided in addition to a hearty breakfast. Or alternatively, the whole family can attend the MASK performance of the children’s musical Annie. Over 40 children will be ruling the stage between February 2 and 4 as they sing and act their hearts out to classics such as omorrow. Plenty to enjoy All year round, members can also make use of the club’s in-house library. Stocked full of English language books, the club considers the collection to be one of the largest in Bahrain and kids can find educational material to assist their studies or simply some fun fictional reads to pore over. Health fanatics can use the well-equipped gym, large pool and tennis club whenever required and Mums can stop by the coffee shop for play dates and weekly activity groups. E Call 17 728-245. A British Classic When? Throughout February | Event? Various | Venue? The British Club When? February 2 Event? Musical evening Venue? Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam A night of Carnatic music in association with the Nadabrahmam Music Club. E Call 39 697-600 or 39 617-620. When? February 3 Event? Gala dance and dinner Venue? Dilmun Club Dance the night away in support of The Mission to Seafarers. E Call 17 253-866. When? February 9 and 11 Event? Competition prize giving Venue? Bahrain Garden Club Winners of the recent gardening competition will be awarded their trophies. E Call 17 727-625. When? February 14 Event? Valentines Day dinner Venue? The British Club Enjoy a three course candlelit dinner for two in the club’s Ascot restaurant. E Call 17 728-245. When? February 15-16 Event? Gardening exhibition Venue? Bahrain Garden Club Entries from the floral exhibition and experimental gardening will be showcased. E Call 17 727-625. When? February 16 Event? Film screening Venue? The British Club Watch the outrageous Rocky Horror Picture Show in the Windsor Room at 8pm. E Call 17 728-245.
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40 February 2012 BTM happeningskidsteens You might know their story inside out, but that won’t stop you from catching yet another play about the legendary couple, especially when it is performed by Shakespeare 4 Kidz. A favourite of children and adults alike, Shakespeare4Kidz (S4K) are on tour again, visiting Bahrain in February with the perfect performance for the month that celebrates true love — Romeo and Juliet. When it comes to making the bard’s plays appealing for children, the theatre group is in a class of its own. It has introduced millions of young people to the magical world of Shakespeare over the last 15 years. Kids love them because they can understand them. The complicated stories and complex text are simplified by the use of modern language linking together the most famous and best-loved lines. And there are catchy songs and dances to top it all. Adults are equally enchanted because they are simply a five-star theatrical musical production. The production will feature many of its popular cast and be directed by its co-writer and founder, Julian Chenery. The team consists of 20 talented professional actors/singers who will give you a magical live performance. It’s been retold in countless ways, but never in the exuberant child-friendly way which they promise. Love and hate, laughter and tears, politics and religion, power and passion — this show has got them all, and in a way everyone can relate to. S4K are experts at putting the play’s message across with its unique balance of comedy and poignancy although all the original ingredients are retained. Pick up tickets at Havajava (Manazel), Trousseau (Aali Complex), Razmatazz (Budaiya) or Al Osra (Saar). An enduring story The Montagues and the Capulets are proud Italian families — but great enemies. One night Romeo Montague and his friends decide to gatecrash the Capulet ball; that is where he and Juliet fall head over heels in love. From then on it’s a rollercoaster ride. Juliet’s parents plan an arranged marriage for her to Count Paris, all the while not knowing that she has secretly married Romeo. Rival gangs riot on the streets and two young men die, and Romeo is banished. Juliet and Friar Lawrence hatch a dare-devil plan involving a dangerous potion. In a desperate race against time and fate, can disgraced Romeo make it back to his bride’s side before it is too late? E Visit www.shakespeare4kidz.com or call 39 616-858. A Tale Foretold When? February 4-18 Event? Acting workshop Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Yusef Alsuhaimi talks about comedic talent. E Call 17 612-576. When? February 11 Event? Yoga talk Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Learn how the practice of yoga can make a difference in your child’s life. E Call 17 612-576. When? February 11-13 Event? Theatre production Venue? Cultural Hall Shakespeare 4 Kidz presents Romeo and Juliet in a childfriendly way. E Call 17 261-555. When? February 24 Event? Kids Capoeira Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre A fun filled children’s program introducing the Brazilian martial arts form, Capoeira. E Call 17 612-576. When? February 24 Event? Kid’s campout Venue? British Club The little ones can enjoy a night under the stars with a BBQ and breakfast included. E Call 17 728-245. When? February 25 Event? Educational event Venue? Governmental primary schools The English Project for youngsters between the ages of 5 and 12. E Call 17 261-555. When? February 25 Event? Book reading Venue? Al A’ali Shopping Compex Take your kids to listen to stories and take part in fun educational activities. E Call 17 266-166. When? February 11-13 | Event? Romeo and Juliet | Venue? The Cultural Hall
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