Trio Night Kicks off the New Year in Riyadh

Fireworks lit up the sky above Riyadh for New Year's Eve. (Reuters)
Fireworks lit up the sky above Riyadh for New Year's Eve. (Reuters)
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Trio Night Kicks off the New Year in Riyadh

Fireworks lit up the sky above Riyadh for New Year's Eve. (Reuters)
Fireworks lit up the sky above Riyadh for New Year's Eve. (Reuters)

The Saudi capital saw a legendary evening to bid farewell to the year 2021. The concert was held on the Boulevard Theater in Riyadh, in the presence of a large audience.

A total of 14 singers from the Arab world participated in the Riyadh Trio Night.

The celebration, which is the first of its kind in the Arab world, saw the appearance of Mohammed Abdo, Abdullah al-Rowaished, Angham, Fahad al-Kubaisi, Assala, Majid al-Muhandis, Ahlam, Nawal El Kuwaitia, Rashid al-Majid, Nabil Shuail, Ali Ben Mohammed, Walid Chami, Aseel Abu Baker, Asma Lamnawar.

The Egyptian orchestra led by maestro Walid Fayed added its innovative touch to the celebration as well.

Abdulmajid Abdullah made an unexpected appearance that turned the stadiums into a festival with all attendees clapping.

Governor of the General Entertainment Authority Turki Al-Sheikh described the night as “historical” and extended his thanks to all the participants.

The fireworks lit up the sky of Riyadh in celebration of the new year.

Saudi musician Diya Azzony told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that Saudi Arabia is witnessing an annual development, namely during the entertainment seasons and public events. This supports artists of all fields and musical talents.

Taking good care of talents is a key part of the development of the artistic sector, especially the musical sector, said Azzony.

He added to the newspaper that there has been an increase in the number of artists and musical instruments' players, and development in the event organizing companies in a way that creates job opportunities, increases productivity in this field, and enriches the artistic movement.

General manager at Music Home KSA Prof. Ayman Tayseer told Asharq Al-Awsat that the future of arts is promising in the Kingdom, adding that this sector is witnessing significant changes.

Tayseer noted that the musical and artistic talents will find the opportunities awaiting them upon completing their training.



Friendly Labrador Aldo Calms Ecuadorean Kids at Dentist's Office

Patient Samuel Ayala pets Aldo, a therapy Labrador Retriever, after a pediatric dental session at a private clinic aimed at easing children's fears during dental procedures, in Quito, Ecuador October 22, 2024. REUTERS/Karen Toro
Patient Samuel Ayala pets Aldo, a therapy Labrador Retriever, after a pediatric dental session at a private clinic aimed at easing children's fears during dental procedures, in Quito, Ecuador October 22, 2024. REUTERS/Karen Toro
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Friendly Labrador Aldo Calms Ecuadorean Kids at Dentist's Office

Patient Samuel Ayala pets Aldo, a therapy Labrador Retriever, after a pediatric dental session at a private clinic aimed at easing children's fears during dental procedures, in Quito, Ecuador October 22, 2024. REUTERS/Karen Toro
Patient Samuel Ayala pets Aldo, a therapy Labrador Retriever, after a pediatric dental session at a private clinic aimed at easing children's fears during dental procedures, in Quito, Ecuador October 22, 2024. REUTERS/Karen Toro

An affable honey-cream Labrador retriever named Aldo is helping young Ecuadorean children relax at the dentist's office, allowing them to cuddle up and stroke him to distract them from noisy machines and invasive oral procedures.
With some five years' experience in emotional support, 8-year-old Aldo understands some 30 commands and enjoys climbing on top of children sitting in his owner Glenda Arias' dental chair.
"Visits always tend to be traumatic, but Aldo brings tranquility and peace to my daughter," said mother Beatriz Armas. "These visits are totally pleasant for her."
Arias said Aldo's clinical involvement had helped transform the behavior of children attending her consultations.
"Aldo is essential," she said.