Recital Series: Benjamin Bernheim and Carrie-Ann Matheson at Abu Dhabi Festival 2026

Experience one of opera’s finest voices in an intimate recital.

Arab World Premiere

Hailed by the Süddeutsche Zeitung as “the most beautiful tenor voice since Luciano Pavarotti”, French tenor Benjamin Bernheim comes to Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 for an intimate recital with his long-standing artistic partner, Canadian pianist Carrie-Ann Matheson. From the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games to the historic reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris, Bernheim has brought his voice to some of the world’s most significant stages and occasions.

Inspired by their acclaimed Deutsche Grammophon album Douce France, the evening journeys through the elegance and expressive beauty of French song, from the refined mélodies of Duparc to Chausson’s sweeping Poème de l’amour et de la mer. The programme travels onwards through Spanish, Catalan and Argentinian song and Puccini’s lyrical romanze, before turning to the timeless French chansons of Trenet, Kosma and Brel.

Taking place at Culture Foundation, this exceptional recital offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience one of the finest tenors of his generation in a more intimate setting, in an evening of elegance, poetry and extraordinary vocal artistry.

About the Artist

Benjamin Bernheim, Tenor French tenor Benjamin Bernheim is one of the leading lyric tenors of his generation, appearing regularly on the world’s foremost opera stages, including the Opéra national de Paris, Metropolitan Opera, Wiener Staatsoper, Staatsoper Unter den Linden, Teatro alla Scala, and Royal Opera House. An exclusive Deutsche Grammophon artist, Bernheim’s accolades include Opera Singer of the Year at the Victoires de la Musique in 2020 and 2024, Male Singer of the Year at the 2024 International Opera Awards and the 2025 Opus Klassik. He is also a Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. Carrie-Ann Matheson, Piano Canadian pianist, conductor and educator Carrie-Ann Matheson is Artistic Director of the San Francisco Opera Center and the Merola Opera Program. After beginning her career on the music staff of the Metropolitan Opera, she joined Opernhaus Zürich in 2014, where she also made her conducting debut. A sought-after recital partner, Matheson has performed with some of the world’s leading singers, including Jonas Kaufmann, Piotr Beczała, Diana Damrau, Joyce DiDonato, Rolando Villazón and Thomas Hampson.

Dress Code and Age Restrictions

Dress Code: Classy and fancy attire is welcome, but feel free to dress in a way that makes you comfortable and confident. Choose an outfit that lets you relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Be yourself, express your style, and enjoy every moment! Age restrictions: Age restrictions for events may vary. Please check the specific guidelines by clicking on the "Buy Tickets" button for detailed information.

Plan your Visit

How to get there? Detailed information on how to reach the venue is provided in the event descriptions. Be sure to check there for directions and transportation options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. What should I take with me? • Tickets: Bring your entry tickets, either in print or digital form on your phone, for a smooth entry experience. • Valid Photo ID: Carry a valid photo ID like your passport for identity verification. • Cash and Card: Have some cash for small purchases; many vendors also accept cards. • Open Mind and Adventurous Spirit: Come with enthusiasm and an open mind to embrace new experiences and create lasting memories. Things that are forbidden • Illegal Substances: Absolutely no illegal substances are allowed on the premises. • Weapons: Weapons of any kind, including items that could be used as projectiles, are strictly prohibited. • Restricted Items: Do not bring laser pointers, permanent markers, felt-tip pens, scissors, or aerosol canisters. • Drones: Drones or any other remote-controlled devices are not allowed. • Illuminating Objects: Glow sticks, LED signage, and similar illuminating objects should be left at home. Food & Beverages A variety of food and drinks are available, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. There’s something for everyone, ensuring attendees stay refreshed throughout their visit.

FAQs

Is there parking? Yes, there is parking available. Attendees have the option to park their vehicles conveniently at or near the venue, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and departure experience. Is it accessible to people with disabilities? Yes, it's accessible to people with disabilities. The organizers prioritize inclusivity and ensure that venues are equipped with facilities to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Accessible seating areas, ramps, and other necessary accommodations are in place, allowing everyone to enjoy the event comfortably. But please contact us for more details before booking. Is it possible to take food from outside? No, bringing outside food is not allowed. Attendees are kindly requested to enjoy the variety of food and beverages available inside the venue. Please note that food is not permitted during performances. Can I smoke? Smoking is not allowed in general areas. However, there are designated special zones where smoking is permitted. If you wish to smoke, please use these designated areas to ensure compliance with the event regulations and the comfort of all attendees. Can I take photos? No photography allowed during the performance inside theatre.

Event Policies & Information

• Early Arrival: Please arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes before the start of the performance to ensure a smooth experience. • Seating: Please remain in your assigned seat as indicated on your ticket. • Timely Attendance Clause: If you do not arrive before the show begins, the organizers reserve the right to release and reassign your seat to accommodate other guests. • Late Arrival Policy: Guests arriving late will be admitted only during a break/interval (if applicable). Original seats are not guaranteed, and an alternative seat may be offered, subject to availability. • Camera Policy: The use of mobile phones, cameras, and recording devices is strictly prohibited. Phones must be kept on silent. No photography is allowed inside the theatre during the performance. • Liability Disclaimer: The organizers are not responsible for any injuries, illnesses, fatalities, or loss/damage to personal belongings related to or arising from the event. Attendance is at your own risk. • Media Consent: By attending the event, you consent to the recording of your image and/or voice, which may be used online or offline for promotional and archival purposes. • Event Information: It is your responsibility to verify the event date, time, location, and age restrictions before attending. Please plan to arrive early to avoid any inconvenience. • Latecomer Policy: Latecomers may be denied entry, with no eligibility for ticket refunds, exchanges, or compensation. Please arrive on time to ensure an uninterrupted experience. • Security Inspection: Security personnel may inspect attendees and their belongings upon entry. Dangerous or prohibited items will be confiscated for the safety of all participants. • Code of Conduct: All attendees must follow a code of conduct that promotes public decen

How to get there

By car: You can drive to the Cultural Foundation from anywhere in Abu Dhabi. You can park there for free. By public transport: The Cultural Foundation is accessible by bus. The nearest bus station would be Abu Dhabi Bus station which is 1.2 Kilometeres away from the Cultural Foundation. By taxi: You can also take a taxi to the Cultural Foundation. It's a famous destination and most drivers would be familiar with its location.