Global Open Casting Call for Groundbreaking Musical "Once Upon A Time in Dubai" Invites Talent from Qatar
The much-anticipated musical, “Once Upon A Time in Dubai,” is set to premiere in December 2025, with an open casting call inviting talented performers from Qatar and around the world to audition. This first-of-its-kind production is backed by Universal Music MENA and key partners like Accor’s ALL loyalty programme and McDonald’s UAE, marking a milestone in the region’s entertainment scene. The musical’s producers are seeking seven singers and 20 dancers of all nationalities to bring their dynamic characters to life on stage.
The open casting call, now live, encourages performers from Qatar and across the globe to seize this rare opportunity to be part of an innovative production that blends music, storytelling, and the essence of Dubai. “This is more than just a show; it’s a celebration of Dubai’s incredible energy and global status. We want to attract the best talent, not just from Dubai, but from places like Qatar and beyond. It’s a reflection of the cultural diversity of the region,” said Stéphane Boukris, the French producer behind the project.
A Musical Like No Other
“Once Upon A Time in Dubai” is poised to be a game-changer for the Middle East's cultural landscape. With an expected audience of 150,000 spectators in Dubai alone, the musical will embark on an international tour following its initial performances, along with a planned screen adaptation. This ambitious production will be Dubai's first truly global musical, taking the city's vibrant culture and creativity to audiences around the world.
The musical, set against the backdrop of Dubai’s iconic skyline, tells the story of Will, a young artist who moves from London to Dubai to pursue his dream of creating a musical extravaganza while reuniting with his partner, Sophia. Themes of love, ambition, and the city’s spirit are woven throughout the narrative, making it a spectacle that promises to captivate audiences both regionally and internationally.
World-Class Creative Team
The creative team behind “Once Upon A Time in Dubai” is equally groundbreaking, featuring some of the most prominent names in the entertainment industry. The musical score is composed by Nazim Khaled, a European composer known for his work with artists like Kendji Girac, with songs that have garnered over 4 billion views worldwide. The music is expected to be a mix of chart-topping hits and evocative compositions designed to drive the narrative forward.
The production is directed by Johan Nus, well-known for his work on Arabs Got Talent and The Masked Singer, with Gilles Papain serving as executive producer. Papain has worked on renowned productions such as Celine in Las Vegas and Disney’s World of Colors in California. With a team of this caliber, “Once Upon A Time in Dubai” is set to deliver a world-class theatrical experience.
Open Casting Call: A Global Invitation
The production's open casting call is seeking performers from all backgrounds, reflecting Dubai’s status as a melting pot of cultures. “We’re not just looking for talent; we’re looking for passion and diversity. This is a chance for performers from Qatar and around the world to be part of something monumental,” Boukris added. The producers are focused on finding artists who embody the spirit of the musical, emphasizing that Dubai is a city of dreams for everyone.
