Jessica Kahawaty to Host London Concert Honoring Legendary Arab Music Icons
Australian Lebanese model and entrepreneur Jessica Kahawaty is bringing her storytelling talents to one of the world’s most prestigious stages. On March 5, she will serve as the narrator for “A Night With The Legends,” a one-night musical tribute at London’s Royal Albert Hall celebrating the iconic women of Arabic music.
Kahawaty will portray Scheherazade, the legendary storyteller of “One Thousand and One Nights,” delivering spoken narration throughout the program. The evening pays tribute to the enduring legacies of Umm Kulthum, Fairuz, Warda, Sabah, Asmahan, and Layla Mourad—six women whose voices shaped the golden era of Arabic music and continue to resonate across generations.
“I’m incredibly humbled,” Kahawaty wrote to her 1.8 million Instagram followers. “As storyteller, I’ll be weaving history, memory and meaning into the musical experience in a one-night tribute celebrating the iconic women of the golden era of Arabic music. I cannot wait to see you all there.”
A Night of Musical Brilliance
The concert features Lebanese vocalist Abeer Nehme, whose powerful voice will interpret the classics, accompanied by the UK-based London Arab Orchestra under conductor Basel Saleh. They will be joined by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and a 70-member all-female choir—an ensemble fitting the grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall and the magnitude of the artists being honored.
The program spans the emotional depth of Umm Kulthum, the ethereal beauty of Fairuz, the passion of Warda, the versatility of Sabah, the tragic brilliance of Asmahan, and the cinematic charm of Layla Mourad. Each brought something unique to Arabic music; together, they represent a cultural heritage that transcends borders.
More Than a Model
Kahawaty’s involvement in the tribute reflects her broader evolution beyond modeling. She is also an entrepreneur, having co-founded fine jewelry label Kahawaty Jewels with her father, master jeweler Ghassan Kahawaty. The Dubai-based brand launched last year as a continuation of the family’s longstanding craftsmanship tradition.
“I grew up watching my father in his jewelry trade. I saw how happy he made people when he created these beautiful pieces,” Kahawaty previously told Arab News. “I’ve always wanted to continue my father’s legacy and my grandfather’s trade. I felt like this is the perfect time to launch Kahawaty Jewels in Dubai, which is a city I’ve been in for over 13 years.”
Alongside her mother, she also runs Mama Rita, a UAE-based food delivery business. In July, they expanded with a cookbook featuring a cover endorsement from Hollywood actress Courteney Cox.
“The moment we held the Mama Rita cookbook in our hands for the very first time… after two years of pouring our hearts into it,” Kahawaty wrote on Instagram. “And we’re beyond thrilled to share a special surprise on the cover—a quote from the one and only (Courteney Cox). Her iconic role as Monica in ‘Friends’—the talented chef, perfectionist and loving control freak—mirrors so much of the dynamic between mum and me.”
A Cultural Bridge
Kahawaty’s role at the Royal Albert Hall positions her as a cultural bridge, connecting Western audiences to the rich traditions of Arabic music through her storytelling. As Scheherazade, she will guide listeners through the history and meaning behind the songs, creating context for those unfamiliar with the legends while deepening appreciation for those who grew up with their music.
For one night in London, the voices of Umm Kulthum, Fairuz, and their contemporaries will fill the Royal Albert Hall—carried by Lebanese vocals, supported by British orchestras, and woven together by an Australian Lebanese narrator. It is a fitting tribute to artists whose music has always transcended borders, speaking a universal language of emotion and beauty.
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