Once Upon a Time in Dubai brings together an international company of singers, actors, dancers and theatre-makers, reflecting the cultural diversity of the city itself.

The original cast is led by Melissa Jeffrey as Sophia and Joe Woolford as Will, alongside Isiako, Jessica Alves, Shay Lachman, Amanda Maalouf, Enzo S and a spectacular ensemble of 17 international dancers. Together, they bring the production’s characters and original songs to life with energy, emotion and remarkable stage presence.

The musical was created and written by producer Stéphane Boukris, with an original score led by award-winning songwriter and composer Nazim Khaled. Direction and choreography are by Johan Nus, whose international credits include Arabs Got Talent, X Factor, The Masked Singer, Singing’ in the Rain and Sweeney Todd. Executive producer and visual designer Gilles Papain brings decades of international experience, including collaborations with Céline Dion, Franco Dragone, America’s Got Talent and Broadway’s Finding Neverland.

From music and choreography to costumes, projections and stage design,

every element was created to deliver a modern theatrical experience

on an international scale.

TEST TEST TEST

The partnership extends the life of the production beyond the stage through the recording, release and international distribution of its original music. Songs including Welcome to Dubai, Stranger in the World, You’re All My Heart, Habibi, Think Big, The Greatest and Diwali have introduced audiences to the musical’s distinctive sound, blending contemporary pop with influences drawn from the Middle East and Dubai’s multicultural identity.

Together, Once Upon a Time in Dubai and Universal Music MENA are developing a new kind of entertainment property, connecting theatre, recorded music and international audiences while showcasing creative talent from the region.