Dubai Opera Leader: This City is Emerging as a Global Cultural Capital
A Fitting Conclusion to the Season
The Dubai Opera will cap off its current season with a performance of Rumi, a musical inspired by the teachings of the esteemed Persian poet. Known for his messages of love and unity that transcend cultural boundaries, this production promises to resonate deeply with the diverse audiences that frequent the venue.
“A Season for Everyone”
Petrocelli, the leader of Dubai Opera, emphasizes the mission behind the venue’s programming, stating, “A season for everyone.” He elaborates, stating that this motto embodies the essence of what Dubai Opera aims to achieve. “It’s not a simple message — it’s a rich one. We want everyone to feel welcome here, to find something that resonates with their background, their story, their heart.”
Reflecting the Spirit of Dubai
Since its inauguration in 2016, Dubai Opera has rapidly become an iconic landmark, attracting over 1.5 million attendees in just nine years. This venue is more than just a performance space; it embodies Dubai’s transformation from a luxury and business center into a significant cultural hub. “Next year we’ll celebrate ten years of Dubai Opera,” Petrocelli mentions. “In the history of Dubai, a decade means a lot. We’ve grown with the city — and helped it grow culturally.”
As he reflects on its influence, Petrocelli acknowledges the importance of striking a balance between adhering to international standards and defining the relevance of a cultural institution in the contemporary Middle East. “Our ambition is to raise the bar for quality while consolidating our identity,” he articulates, distinguishing Dubai Opera as a venue that undoubtedly aligns with the forward-looking spirit of the city.
Commitment to Local and Regional Talent
Integral to Dubai Opera’s mission is a commitment to nurturing local and regional artistic talent. Plans are already in place for establishing a National Orchestra, along with aspirations to create a Dubai Orchestra. Petrocelli indicates that the venue is entering an exciting new phase. “The next step will be to produce our own shows with Emirati and resident artists,” he explains, highlighting the wealth of creative resources available in the city. “There are already so many talented people living and working here — we just need to connect them through creative partnerships.”
Describing this direction as “a natural evolution,” he emphasizes that every season presents opportunities to innovate and engage audiences in novel ways. “Our audiences are very global — well-travelled, well-informed, and with high expectations. Artistic excellence is at the core of everything we do,” he asserts.
Leadership Shaped by Experience
Before assuming his role at Dubai Opera, Petrocelli worked as a journalist in Italy, a background that informs his current leadership style. “Being a journalist taught me how to listen, how to read people,” he shares, noting this skill is crucial in leading an organization dedicated to serving the community. Ultimately, he views Dubai Opera as a “bridge that connects hearts and cultures.”
In his eyes, his role transcends that of a cultural manager — he positions himself as a cultural ambassador for Dubai. “For me, this is more than a job — it’s a mission,” he asserts passionately. “When you work in the arts, you deal with beauty and the power of creativity. The only way to embrace that is to make it your life’s mission.”
A Transformative Decade Ahead
Looking forward, Petrocelli asserts that the next decade will not only be transformative for Dubai Opera but also for the city as a whole. “Dubai is on the verge of something extraordinary,” he states. “You can’t find another place right now with so many opportunities to contribute to cultural life. The demographics, the economic development, the diversity — everything here makes it possible to imagine a new way of creating culture.”
In a world increasingly marked by division, he perceives Dubai’s multicultural setting as a model for global emulation. “Through our programming, we celebrate diversity and peace,” he explains. “In a world full of conflict, Dubai shows that cultures can meet, share, and thrive together.”
When reflecting on his journey, Petrocelli conveys a mix of nostalgia and ongoing curiosity. “Sometimes, I miss being the one asking the questions,” he admits with a smile. “But I still ask a lot of questions — to my team, my colleagues, my partners. It keeps my mind open and helps me never lose the appetite to learn.”
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