Features

ROHM lines up dazzling events in January

Pianists Hélène Mercier and Louis Lortie
 
Pianists Hélène Mercier and Louis Lortie

Muscat: The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) announced that 2026 opens with a rich and varied programme, inviting audiences to begin the new year with performances and events that celebrate artistic excellence, cultural exchange and shared experiences for all ages.
The month begins with Cinderella on Ice at ROHM on January 1 and January 2 at 7:00 pm and January 3 at 4:00 pm. This family-friendly production reimagines the classic fairytale through expressive ice skating and storytelling, offering an engaging start to the season. It brings the classic fairytale to life with dazzling choreography, stunning costumes and breathtaking ice-skating performances. Perfect for audiences of all ages, this enchanting production combines the grace of figure skating with magical storytelling, set to a captivating musical score. Watch as Cinderella overcomes adversity, finds her prince and glides into the happily-ever-after. With heartwarming moments, exciting sequences and sparkling special effects, Cinderella on Ice offers an unforgettable theatrical experience for the entire family.


On January 8 and 9 at 7:00 pm, the Folk Music Festival takes place at ROHM Maidan. Outdoor performances from Oman, Bahrain, Kazakhstan, Mexico and Hungary celebrate global traditions and highlight the role of music and dance in fostering international understanding. Join us for a magical two-night celebration under the stars at the Folk Music Festival, an open-air concert that brings the world to your doorstep. Experience the rich cultural rhythms and captivating performances from special guest artists representing Kazakhstan, Mexico and Hungary. This vibrant musical journey will showcase traditional folk melodies, colourful costumes and energetic dance, creating a lively and unforgettable atmosphere for all ages. Bring your friends and family, enjoy the festive spirit and be part of this unique cultural exchange through the universal language of music.
Educational and community focused events continue throughout the month. Let’s Read! takes place on January 24 at the ROHM Music Library, introducing young audiences to the journeys of Ibn Battuta through storytelling that encourages curiosity and cultural awareness. Later the same day at 12:30 pm, Lunch Music in the Opera Galleria offers a free midday concert featuring excerpts from Puccini’s Tosca.
Opera audiences can further engage with Opera Talk on January 28 at ROHM, led by musicologist Gaston Fournier, ahead of the exciting performance of the opera Tosca, presented at ROHM on January 29 and January 31 at 7:00 pm. The production is led by Fabio Mastrangelo and features an international cast.


The month concludes with Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony in Liszt’s two piano version on January 30 at 7:00 pm, performed by pianists Hélène Mercier and Louis Lortie with soloists and choir.
In this concert, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony is presented in a special arrangement of Liszt’s version, for two pianos and choir. Mercier and Lortie, known for their long-standing partnership, bring this demanding work to life with exceptional skill. As the iconic Ode to Joy resounds, audiences will experience a powerful fusion of choral and piano mastery. This breathtaking performance pays tribute to musical innovation and promises an unforgettable experience for all lovers of classical music.
January’s programme reflects the opera house’s commitment to artistic quality, global cultural dialogue and audience opportunity. Looking ahead, February will continue this momentum with two exciting family productions designed to inspire young audiences and bring families together through music and storytelling.