The Middle East’s largest cinema chain, Grand Cinemas, has partnered with PLG “Power League Gaming”, the region’s leading e-sports and video gaming tournament provider, in association with Jeep® Middle East, Hardees and Xbox 360®. Power League Gaming hosted the Official Black Ops II multiplayer behind closed doors in September and 4,000 gamers queued for five hours to try the game two months early.

PLG will be running team and single player tournaments on a variety of key dates, this being the first. Then running into the Double XP weekend, three Grand Cinemas locations – at Dubai Festival City, Ibn Battuta Mall and Baniyas Mall – will play host to the opening round, 16th to 17th November, of Power League Gaming’s nine-country tour across the Middle East and North Africa. The competition will end at a secret location in 2013 and prizes* include an all expenses paid trip to LA, a professional gaming contract, a Jeep® Wrangler and a stash of other accessories and prizes still to be announced.

Jean Ramia, Grand Cinemas CEO, comments: “Coming to the cinema to watch a movie is a complete journey. Earlier this year we launched our ‘Why Not?’ campaign, disrupting conventions to bring patrons an experience that is always smart, entertaining and surprising. So why not combine cinema with video games? For the first time in the Middle East, gamers will be able to take their experience to another level, which is hugely exciting.”

To secure a place at the tournament, interested gamers are invited to register on the site www.powerleaguegaming.com.
For more information or queries email [email protected] .

*Terms and conditions will apply


ABOUT GRAND CINEMAS
Founded in 2000 with the flagship Grand Cineplex theatre, the Grand Cinemas brand has grown into a dazzling statement of quality entertainment, consistently striving to set the industry standard – and succeeding. The proof is in the steady proliferation of the franchise and the acquisition of major theatre chains regionally. Today, the Grand Cinemas name stands boldly over 23 multiplexes – a staggering 180 screens – throughout the Middle East, making it the region’s largest chain of theatres. Ongoing expansion will see seven new projects unveiled within the next two years. www.grandcinemas.com

ABOUT GULF FILM LLC
Established in 1989, Gulf Film is the region’s leading film distributor, responsible for the lion’s share of Arabic and English titles across the Middle East. The company’s movie sources range from American principals such as Universal Studios, Paramount and DreamWorks to independents such as Spyglass, Mandate, Summit, Relativity Media and Lionsgate. In 2000, Gulf Film further expanded its industry profile through the creation of an exhibition arm – Grand Cinemas – and currently distributes and exhibits over 200 titles per annum. www.gulffilm.com

ABOUT POWER LEAGUE GAMING
Power League Gaming (PLG) is an Electronic Sports League, focused on the commercial and social development of on ground and digital tournaments. Representing local games developers and publishers in the Middle East and North Africa and global developers and publishers targeting the Middle East and North Africa gaming community. For more information please contact [email protected]. Website www.powerleaguegaming.com

ABOUT ACTIVISION PUBLISHING, INC.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, Russia, Japan, South Korea, China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company’s website, www.activision.com.

ABOUT THE JEEP® BRAND

With over 70 years of iconic heritage and capability, Jeep® is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys.
The Jeep® brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence. The Jeep® vehicle line-up in the Middle East comprises the Compass, Patriot, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee (the most awarded SUV ever), Grand Cherokee SRT8 (the most powerful ever Jeep®), Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited.

ABOUT XBOX
Xbox is Microsoft’s premier entertainment service for the TV, phone, PC and tablet. It’s home to the best and broadest games, as well as one of the world’s largest libraries of music, movies, TV and sports. With Kinect, Xbox 360 transformed gaming and entertainment in the living room with a whole new way to play games and find entertainment — no controller required. More information about Xbox can be found online at http://www.xbox.com.

Dubai, UAE, 05 November 2012 - VOX Cinemas, the region’s most progressive cinema operator, has announced an aggressive growth plan that will see the launch of five new VOX Cinema locations in 2013, doubling the company’s screen count. This includes a strategic expansion into new and emerging markets across the Middle East, with two VOX Cinemas planned in Oman and one location in Beirut, Lebanon. VOX Cinemas will additionally increase its presence in the UAE, adding two new VOX Cinemas including expansion into the northern Emirates increasing the total cinema count to 10 cinemas by the end of 2013, and more than doubling the company’s screen count.

“Building upon the successful platform the VOX Cinemas brand has achieved in the UAE, Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas is poised for further growth as it looks to enter new, emerging markets,” said Ahmed Galal Ismail, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Ventures. “This reflects the wider vision of Majid Al Futtaim Ventures to grow its entertainment concepts across the Middle East region, and we are confident that VOX Cinemas will continue to redefine the entertainment landscape in these new – and future markets.”

Introducing the big screen, luxurious cinema and dining concept to markets outside the UAE, VOX Cinemas is set to open in early 2013 in Beirut City Centre, a new shopping and lifestyle destination currently under development by Majid Al Futtaim Properties. With 100% of screens digitally-enabled, VOX Cinemas has invested in the latest technologies for its debut in Lebanon, bringing a first-class cinema experience that will feature the mega-screen VOX MAX concept, the premium VOX GOLD concept and enhanced VOX 3D and VIP alternatives.

Muscat, Oman has also been identified as a growth market, reinforced by VOX Cinemas’ plans to develop two VOX Cinemas locations in 2013 with both projected to open by December 2013. The new cinemas will raise the standards of the cinematic experience for the community, which is still relatively underserviced in comparison to other Middle Eastern cinema markets. Features of the new VOX Cinemas in Oman will include exclusive ‘VIP’ seating which offer larger, more spacious seats, digitally-enabled big screens and flexible ticketing options to create a dynamic movie-going experience for residents.

“The VOX Cinemas business has aggressive growth plans that include entry into new, emerging markets across the region and expansion within the United Arab Emirates,” said Cameron Mitchell, CEO of VOX Cinemas. “Using our big screen VOX MAX and premium VOX GOLD concepts, which have been a resounding success in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we’re looking to raise the benchmark of cinema standards across the Middle East. By the end of 2013, we will have launched five new VOX Cinemas, and have entered three new markets – Oman and Lebanon, and Fujairah in the UAE, with more expansion plans to be announced soon.”

Within the UAE, VOX Cinemas is continuing to expand the VOX Cinemas business in Dubai and increasing its presence in the emerging northern Emirates. Projected to open in Q1, 2013, VOX Cinemas is bringing the community’s first-ever big-screen cinema experience with the VOX MAX concept at Fujairah City Centre – the first and largest lifestyle shopping mall in the Emirate, which opened earlier this year. Featuring a total of 11 screens, including a VOX MAX and two VIP cinemas, VOX Cinemas will meet the maturing needs of the growing Fujairah population with its state-of-the-art surround sound and digitally-enhanced screens.

Within Dubai, VOX Cinemas will open a sixth location in the UAE with a VOX Cinemas to open a completely renovated 7-screen cinema in Mercato Mall to feature a new and enhanced VIP cinema offering for the Jumeirah community, an expanded food and beverage offering, and service levels that eclipse all expectations.

VOX Cinemas’ growth plans are part of Majid Al Futtaim Ventures’ strategic objective to expand the VOX Cinemas brand and introduce its successful and innovative cinematic concepts across the GCC and wider Middle East and North Africa regions. With the recent rollout of digital cinema technology across all its UAE screens, VOX Cinemas today offers more digital sessions and more 3D screens per location than any other cinema company in the region.

For more information on VOX Cinemas please visit: www.voxcinemas.com

About Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas
VOX Cinemas is the Middle East’s most innovative and customer-focused cinema experience featuring high-resolution 4K digital projection systems, immersive digital 3D content, fully digital cinema screens, expansive VOX MAX screens, as well as premium VIP, VOX GOLD and value-oriented seating alternatives. With 50 screens currently across five locations in the UAE, the VOX Cinemas experience includes extensive dining choices from VOX Cafes as well as traditional candybar offers, and an extensive menu attached to their VOX GOLD ultimate cinema experience. VOX Cinemas allows guests to purchase tickets in a number of convenient ways: the VOX Cinemas website, on-site kiosks, iPhone and Nokia apps, the mobile website or in-person at the ticket box.

VOX Cinemas is owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas, which is the cinema arm of the wider Majid Al Futtaim Ventures group of businesses. Majid Al Futtaim Ventures is the growth engine responsible for developing new enterprises to deliver the most innovative concepts to the Middle East.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – November 4, 2012: Cirque du Soir, Dubai’s most extraordinary clubbing experience is announcing an astounding line-up of events in November. Expect the unexpected from the iconic characters and Cirque-esque artists, amidst the colorful décor in Dubai’s hottest nightspot. As the top night club hotspot for socialites and celebrities, be amongst the few who can rub shoulders with a growing list of celebrities who have appeared at this famed night spot.

Cirque Du Soir’s incredible circus atmosphere makes it stand out from the crowd. Guests will always be treated to surprise events and novel live performances from the mind-boggling cast of performers, including stilt walkers, midgets, contortionists, tattooed dancers, jugglers, drummers, burlesque dancers, sword swallowers, magicians and fire eaters!

November 16: Cirque du Soir turns ONE
The first anniversary of Cirque du Soir Dubai will be celebrated on November 16th. The A-List performer to celebrate this milestone will be announced very soon. Cirque Du Soir Dubai was launched in November 2011 by lifestyle expert Pragma Group. The venue in Dubai is the first location to open outside of the UK, which originally launched in 2009. Since its launch, Cirque du Soir Dubai is one of the highest regarded and frequented clubs in the region. More eccentricities and unique experiences are planned for the years ahead.

Cirque du Soir World Tour
Cirque du Soir London has been on a World Tour since October 26th and hosting parties around this globe in cities including: Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Helsinki, New Delhi, and Hong Kong. In November, they will be spreading the iconic Cirque du Soir antics in the following cities:
November 2nd: Mint in Shanghai, China
November 3rd: New Asia Bar in Singapore
November 10th: Xiu Club, in Beijing, China
November 15th: Bushido in Manama, Bahrain

In the past, World Tours have been conducted at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010 with events at the famed VIP Room offering worldwide exposure to the brand. This has been followed with parties and residencies in the finest clubs across the globe from Saint-Tropez to Miami, through to Moscow and Paris, Hong Kong, Dubai, Monaco, Geneva, Zurich, Shanghai, Beirut, Munich, Cannes, Luxembourg, Milano, Courchevel, Megeve, Cairo, Oslo, Riga, Brussels and many other cities. This has also included events during Art Basel in Miami, Cannes Film Festival, Nikki Beach St-Tropez’s 10 year anniversary, Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix, Milan and Paris Fashion Week, Monaco F1 Grand Prix.

November to December: Beauty partnership with Sephora
Sephora which offers premium cosmetics, skin care, makeup, fragrance & perfume, hair, beauty products and makeup tips is the official make-up supplier to Cirque du Soir. Sephora has been setting up beauty booth for guests to receive touch ups and signature Cirque du Soir temporary tattoos and face art, enhancing the unique experience every Friday at the club. Don’t miss the chance to come for touch ups and to receive goodie bags.

New Year’s Eve Theme announced
A sneak peak for the month ahead, this New Year’s Eve at Cirque du Soir will be VEGAS themed. Get ready for an incredible New Year’s Eve at Cirque du Soir Dubai. More details to be announced soon.

Weekly events
Get cirqued on Tuesday’s in partnership with OK! Middle East. Every Thursday enjoy a night of Cirque Sauvage and on Fridays be in tune with the Freaks and Beats.

Entry is subject to the door policy. Over 21s only and guests should arrive early to avoid disappointment. Table bookings in advance are recommended. Doors from 10:30pm to 3:00am. For more information and reservations contact 04 3324900 or email [email protected]

A night at Cirque Du Soir is one you will never forget…

About Cirque Du Soir
Located in The Fairmont Hotel, Cirque Du Soir Dubai was launched in November 2011 by lifestyle expert Pragma Group. The daring entertainment house offers a new insight into the city’s club scene. Guests are paraded with world-class circus performances which range from snake charmers and dwarfs, to contortionists and stilt walkers to name a few. These spectacular theatrics are combined with an extravagant team of mixologist, performers and fancy dress all contained in a markedly seductive burlesque atmosphere designed by Stephane Dupoux.

Originally launched in London at the end of 2009, Cirque Du Soir has quickly become home to A-List celebrities, including the likes of Madonna, Jude Law, Usher, Lady Gaga, Lindsay Lohan, David Guetta, Black Eyed Peas, Pixie Lott, Scarlett Johansson Leonardo Di Caprio and Princess Eugene to name but a few.

Cirque Du Soir Dubai is the first location to open outside of the UK. With international franchising rights acquired by Pragma, five new venues are set to open over the coming years, with Beirut, Istanbul and Miami earmarked for the upcoming locations.

About Pragma Group
Pragma Group is an organization that balances the art and science of business. Focusing on two essential areas of today’s modern world, lifestyle and technology, Pragma Group blends skill and investment to grow brands within these two industries using the most effective business models and partnerships to make it happen.

Smart and successful, Lebanon-based Pragma Group has worked with international partners to launch concepts in the Middle East over the past seven years, as well as build a number of businesses from the ground up, creating a well-structured family of companies.

Having a strong eye for opportunities, Pragma Group has also put its management team to further use by nurturing the growth and development of young, new ventures that promise great potential.

With unsurpassed experience garnered over many years in the Middle East, Pragma Group offers sustainable success for its businesses, partners and investors from around the region and the world.

Pragma Group owns and operates the following brands: LS2-Pluto, Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge, Bo House, Health Factory, Epicure, Lina’s Café, Le Talleyrand and the newly launched nightlife venue, Cirque Du Soir.

November 2: International Pop/R&B superstar Jay Sean to bring his back to back hits to Cavalli Club
With hits like “Down” featuring Lil Wayne, and “Do You Remember” featuring Sean Paul, Jay Sean’s two singles combined have sold more than 8 Million copies worldwide. This catapulted Jay Sean and his U.S. debut album ALL OR NOTHING, into a league reserved for only a few. The album was followed by the now worldwide platinum single,”2012 (It Ain’t the End),” featuring hotly-tipped rapper and singer, Nicki Minaj and “Hit the Lights” featuring world renown rapper Lil Wayne.  Entrance Fee: AED250.

November 3: Tenuta Degli Dei Wine Dinner with Tommaso Cavalli
A very chic night is planned for Saturday, November 3rd where Tommaso Cavalli – son of Roberto Cavalli – will be hosting a wine dinner, featuring the Cavalli signature wine, Tenuta Degli Dei. Tommaso is a wine connoisseur and he’ll be sharing his insights and passion for wine. A special four course dinner will be served for AED250 only, along with free-flowing Tenuta Degli Dei for AED250.

November 9: The beats of Shovell, defected warrior drummer will resonate throughout the club
 Shovell has now become the premier percussionist in the world of dance music.  Not only can he be seen playing his percussion alongside the world’s best DJs in the world’s biggest clubs, but it is all done in the guise of his alter ego “the drum warrior” which sees Shovell wearing the most vibrant tribal clothes and face paint. Shovell is best known as band member and percussionist in multi-platinum album selling band “M People”. Shovell has also performed/recorded with many acts as diverse as “Hearsay” and “Atomic Kitten” to “The Manic Street Preachers,” “Primal Scream,” “Soul II Soul,” “Boy George,”  ”Chicane,” “Sting,” “The Chemical Brothers” and many others.

November 16: Croon to Florencio Cruz’s Sexy Saxophone
Born in La Plata, Argentina, Florencio realized at the age of eleven that he wanted to play the saxophone. After moving to Ibiza later in life, he accidentally came across DJs and promoters, and slowly started to perform the saxophone in clubs and that extended his career to new heights. In the last eight years Florencio Cruz has performed with artists such as Miguel Migs, Roger Sanchez, Martin Solveig, Jay-J, Copyright, David Morales, Mark Knight, Wally Lopez, Gregory, Joey Negro, Joan Ribas, Dirty Vegas, Fatboy Slim, and Seal. His last album “Arbol” was released in January 2012.

November 23: A foxy night of music with Krystal Roxx
KRYSTALROXX is the official European DJ for Taio Cruz and resident DJ for Hed Kandi. She has performed alongside Taio for thousands of people around Europe at various arenas and live TV events including Radio 1′s Hackney Weekend, opening of Euro 2012 in Warsaw, The Graham Norton Show BBC 1, Cannes Film Festival, The Voice, NRJ Germany, Planet Radio, Starfloor in Paris, N-Joy festival and features alongside other artists including Flo Rida, Pitbull and David Guetta. KRYSTALROXX has played in various venues around the world and is returning back to the UAE after her performance in Abu Dhabi in 2011.

November 30: Felix Mircea Amnesia’s Percussion resident
Felix Mircea Moldovan is the resident percussionist at one of the best global clubs, Amnesia in Ibiza. Felix began his musical career studying classical music but was soon conquered by the sounds and beats of Jazz and Funk and that led him to become a drummer and percussionist. He is currently in the pop-rock group “SPIN”. His extensive knowledge of percussion gives him the opportunity to play many musical styles given the large number of ethnic instruments he usually works with. He is also proud to share his musical experiences as a drums and percussion teacher in Bucharest’s, Rockschool.

A sneak peak for the month ahead, more of the world’s celebrated artists will be performing at Cavalli Club, Restaurant and Lounge in December. The artists include:
Renowned DJ Edward Maya on December 7th
Saxophonist/Violinist Ruben Moran & Micah on December 14th
More performers will be added to this list soon and for New Year’s Eve, get ready for an amazing James Bond themed night.

About Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge
Inspired by and launched in collaboration with celebrated designer, Roberto Cavalli, Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge is the distillation of all things fabulous. Located in the Fairmont Hotel, the glittering restaurant and lounge is dripping in signature Cavalli icons from animal prints to sparkling crystals. Launched in 2009, Cavalli Club is a jewel in the crown of Pragma Group‘s successful Pragma Lifestyle vertical. With plans in the pipeline to expand the experience internationally, Cavalli Club is set to become an international destination for the world’s jetsetting elite.

About Pragma Group
Pragma Group is an organization that balances the art and science of business. Focusing on two essential areas of today’s modern world, lifestyle and technology, Pragma Group blends skill and investment to grow brands within these two industries using the most effective business models and partnerships to make it happen.

Smart and successful, Lebanon-based Pragma Group has worked with international partners to launch concepts in the Middle East over the past seven years, as well as build a number of businesses from the ground up, creating a well-structured family of companies.

Having a strong eye for opportunities, Pragma Group has also put its management team to further use by nurturing the growth and development of young, new ventures that promised great potential. With unsurpassed experience garnered over many years in the Middle East, Pragma Group offers sustainable success for its businesses, partners and investors from around the region and the world.

Pragma Group owns and operates the following brands: LS2-Pluto, Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge, Bo House, Health Factory, Epicure, Lina’s Café, Le Talleyrand and the newly launched nightlife venue, Cirque Du Soir.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates (23 October 2012): Fans who want to catch Swedish House Mafia’s last ever tour date in Dubai should move fast, according to organisers The Peppermint Experience. Ticket are being snapped up and selling at a rapid rate, with numbers beginning to run out.

Brought to the Middle East for the first and last time by Peppermint Experience on November 16th, the trio of Swedish music-makers is set to enthrall fans at a concert at Dubai World Trade Centre. DWTC will be transformed with state of the art staging, sound and lights to host the audio visual experience of the year.

There’s been an outpouring of emotion from fans since the announcement of Swedish House Mafia’s break-up. Music lovers and fans are eager to experience the creativity of the group firsthand while they still can. Tickets have been in huge demand at concert venues around the world, with New York and Chicago selling out in a matter of minutes.

Jean Ramia, Peppermint Experience Founder commented: “The fact that tickets are selling so fast is just one sign of how much fans are looking forward to Swedish House Mafia’s final tour. The last eight years have seen The Peppermint Experience delivering spectacular events, and as usual, it’s the quality of performers that we bring to the region which counts the most. Tickets are selling fast so we’re advising fans to act quickly so they don’t miss this epic event.”

Tickets can be purchased from Virgin Stores and online, and on the Peppermint Experience website, http://www.peppermint-experience.com/. Tickets cost 350AED for the 21+ show.

Online links:

http://www.swedishhousemafia.com

http://www.facebook.com/swedishhousemafia

http://twitter.com/swedishousemfia

Official tour dates:
16th November – World Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE
17th November – Sun Arena Polo Ground, Mumbai, India **On Sale 8 Oct.
18th November – Unitech Golf Course, Delhi, India
22nd November – Friends Arena, Stockholm, Sweden
23rd November – Friends Arena, Stockholm, Sweden
24th November – Friends Arena, Stockholm, Sweden
26th November – Forum, Copenhagen, Denmark
29th November – O2 Arena, Prague, Czech Republic
30th November – WM Park Planai, Schladming, Austria
1st December – Sportpaleis, Antwerp, Belgium
6th December – Festhalle, Frankfurt, Germany
7th December – Ziggo Dome, Amsterdam, Netherlands
8th December – Bercy, Paris, France
15th December – Stadium Live, Moscow, Russia
18th December – Pavilhão Atlântico, Lisbon, Portugal
22nd December – Telenor Arena, Oslo, Norway **Ticket presale starts Tues 25 Sept 10:00
25th January – Wild Waters, Johannesburg, South Africa **On Sale 8 Oct.
26th January – Wild Waters, Johannesburg, South Africa **On Sale 8 Oct.
27th January – Lourensford Wine Estate, Cape Town, South Africa **On Sale 8 Oct.
16th February – Bill Graham Civic, San Francisco, USA
20th February – United Centre, Chicago, USA
23rd February – Rogers Centre, Toronto, Canada
27th February – Bell Centre, Montreal, Canada
1st March – Madison Square Garden, New York, USA
2nd March – Barclay Center, New York, USA
9th March – Masquerade Motel @ Historic Park, LA, USA

Swedish House Mafia will release their second compilation album entitled ‘Until Now’ from October 22nd (preorder from September 25th). The album will form the official soundtrack to the One Last Tour (go to http://www.onelasttour.com for more information).

The follow up to their double gold-selling mix album ‘Until One’, the album will feature a unique collection of Swedes’ original tracks, remixes, exclusive collaborations, club favourites and solo productions.

‘Until Now’ highlights include the latest Swedish House Mafia single ‘Don’t You Worry Child’ (feat John Martin) – which was debuted to 65,000 people at the band’s recent UK farewell Milton Keynes Bowl show, the previously unreleased Coldplay Vs. Swedish House Mafia ‘Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall’, global club anthems ‘Calling’ and ‘In My Mind’, Steve Angello and Third Party’s ‘Lights’, a remix of their production for Usher ‘Euphoria’ plus more previously unreleased tracks.

After exploding on to the scene in 2010, the band followed up their huge genre-defining club track ‘One’ with the worldwide platinum-selling single ‘Miami 2 Ibiza’ featuring Tinie Tempah. Both tracks appeared on their double gold-selling compilation album ‘Until One’, which is still in the top 50 chart nearly two years after its release. The boys followed this with top 10 UK single ‘Save The World’ last summer, also a huge hit around the globe. They ended 2011 playing to 20,000 people at New York’s Madison Square Garden, which sold out in a staggering 10 minutes. 2012 so far has seen the release of their highest charting single to date – ‘Antidote’ – a collaboration with Pendulum’s Knife Party, a second bigger and better Masquerade Motel in Miami and the release of the incendiary ‘Greyhound’ (an all-Swedish collaboration with Absolut Vodka). This summer SWEDISH HOUSE MAFIA bid a glorious farewell to the UK in spectacular fashion with their biggest headline show to date at Milton Keynes Bowl against a show-stopping backdrop of lasers, fireworks and flames.

22 October 2012, Abu Dhabi, UAE: AFLAM, the film club which presents the best of Arabic cinema to Abu Dhabi’s film fans, will this month welcome acclaimed director Amr Salama. Ahead of the screening, the short film ‘The Pillars’, directed by Moustafa Zakaria and funded by twofour54 creative lab will be shown.

This month’s screening will take place on Wednesday 24th October at VOX Cinemas, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi. Guests are invited to arrive at 7pm for an hour of networking ahead of the screenings at 8pm. The evening will conclude with a Q&A session with Amr Salama.

Based on a true story, ‘Asmaa’ is an inspiring portrait of an Egyptian woman in her 40s, struggling to live with the secret of her HIV status.

Following the death of her husband, Asmaa moves to Cairo with her father and teenage daughter. She suffers from the feelings of seclusion and social isolation associated with her illness and she lives in fear that her secret will be exposed, even to those closest to her. For months she suffers with a benign infection and due to her illness, no doctor will agree to carry out the surgery that could easily treat her. She must find a solution before her condition becomes fatal.

Asmaa’s chance comes when she is offered the opportunity to appear on a famous TV talk-show, a last chance for her to secure her right for treatment. With only hours to decide, Asmaa must choose between revealing her secret or continuing to suffer in silence…

The film premiered at the 2011 Abu Dhabi Film Festival, where it won the New Horizons Award for Best Director from the Arab World. At the 2012 Fribourg International Film Festival ‘Asmaa’ won the Audience Award.

The twofour54 creative lab-funded short film ‘The Pillars’ is about a recently divorced Emirati couple’s journey shaped by the five pillars of Islam. Having received 11 international and regional film festival acceptances, ‘The Pillars’ looks at the region and the issues that impact life in the UAE.

Supported by twofour54, AFLAM was launched based on the success of a film club that Nayla Al Khaja and D-SEVEN Motion Pictures founded in Dubai in November 2007 and aims to provide a platform for all film industry members and fans to network and view quality regional films in Abu Dhabi.  Subtitled in English, all AFLAM films have an international appeal, most having been screened at major film festivals around the globe. The founders of AFLAM are proud to have introduced such a platform to Abu Dhabi and continue to support a vibrant film culture in the UAE.

Offering complimentary seats, Arabic and English subtitles, a chance to talk to film directors and a forum for industry professionals and film fans to network, AFLAM invites guests to reserve their tickets on www.aflamclub.com. The tickets can be collected at the AFLAM Registration Desk at VOX Cinemas Marina Mall Abu Dhabi from 7.00pm and guests are encouraged to arrive on time as seating is offered on a “first come first served” basis. Guests can visit the AFLAM Networking Lounge also open from 7.00pm.

Asmaa Film

About AFLAM
Brought to you by D-SEVEN Motion Pictures and riding on the success of The Scene Club, the film club AFLAM is the new home of modern Arabic cinema in Abu Dhabi. It is a monthly film club that highlights and celebrates the best of independent Arabic cinema and filmmakers, showing independent films to the Abu Dhabi community and creating a film network for like-minded people to meet and share ideas. This film club is open to everyone – not just Arabic speakers, but people of all backgrounds. AFLAM’s films will have an international appeal with many movies having been previously screened at major film festivals across the globe. It’s a club for you, offering complimentary seats, a chance to talk to film directors and a place for film professionals and film fans to network. Tickets are complimentary and can be requested by registering online at www.aflamclub.com

About D-SEVEN Motion Pictures
D-SEVEN offers a full array of production services including TV commercials, Corporate and Promotional Films.
D-SEVEN and its subsidiaries are led by the direction of Nayla Al Khaja, who is UAE’s first female film producer. Our offices are conveniently located in Dubai Media City and twofour54, Abu Dhabi.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – October 22, 2012: On the occasion of Halloween, Cirque du Soir, Dubai’s most extraordinary clubbing experience, will be opening its doors on Wednesday, October 31st, 2012 exceptionally to launch the House of Horrors. The ever present eccentric decor and performances will be taken to a whole new level during All Hallows’ Eve, as Cirque du Soir Dubai will be converted into a House of Horrors until Friday, November 2, 2012.

Be wary of what might pop out of the coffins, the skeletons that may come out of the closets and ghouls floating about. Cirque du Soir Dubai’s mysterious performers will take new shapes and forms during Halloween and a new surprise character will be revealed for the first time. Cirque du Soir Dubai’s guests will be possessed by the fire dancers, two headed freaks, and devilish creatures that will be creeping and crawling from every corner.

A special cocktail has also been created for this night. Guests can enjoy an exceptional beverage package till midnight for only AED200. Entry is subject to the door policy. Guests must be over 21 and should arrive early to avoid disappointment. Booking tables in advance is recommended. Doors from 10:30pm to 3am. For more information and reservations contact 04 3324900 or email [email protected]

Halloween Party at Cirque du Soir Dubai

Halloween at Cirque Du Soir Dubai is a night you will never forget…

About Cirque Du Soir
Located in The Fairmont Hotel, Cirque Du Soir Dubai was launched in October 2011 by lifestyle expert Pragma Group. The daring entertainment house offers a new insight into the city’s club scene. Guests are paraded with world-class circus performances which range from snake charmers and dwarfs, to contortionists and stilt walkers to name but a few. These spectacular theatrics are combined with an extravagant team of mixologist, performers and fancy dress all contained in a markedly seductive burlesque atmosphere designed by Stephane Dupoux.

Originally launched in London at the end of 2009, Cirque Du Soir has quickly become home to A-List celebrities, including the likes of Madonna, Jude Law, Usher, Lady Gaga, Lindsay Lohan, David Guetta, Black Eyed Peas, Pixie Lott, Scarlett Johansson Leonardo Di Caprio and Princess Eugene to name but a few.

Cirque Du Soir Dubai is the first location to open outside of the UK. With international franchising rights acquired by Pragma, five new venues are set to open over the coming years, with Beirut, Istanbul and Miami earmarked for the upcoming locations.

About Pragma Group
Pragma Group is an organization that balances the art and science of business. Focusing on two essential areas of today’s modern world, lifestyle and technology, Pragma Group blends skill and investment to grow brands within these two industries using the most effective business models and partnerships to make it happen.

Smart and successful, Lebanon-based Pragma Group has worked with international partners to launch concepts in the Middle East over the past seven years, as well as build a number of businesses from the ground up, creating a well-structured family of companies.

Having a strong eye for opportunities, Pragma Group has also put its management team to further use by nurturing the growth and development of young, new ventures that promise great potential.

With unsurpassed experience garnered over many years in the Middle East, Pragma Group offers sustainable success for its businesses, partners and investors from around the region and the world.

Pragma Group owns and operates the following brands: LS2-Pluto, Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge, Bo House, Health Factory, Epicure, Lina’s Café, Le Talleyrand and the newly launched nightlife venue, Cirque Du Soir.

UAE cinemas will show Sparkle starting from Thursday, November 8, 2012 at the following venues:

• VOX Cinemas
• Reel Cinemas
• Grand Cinemas
• Cinema City
• Cine Royal

The Plot
Detroit, 1968. The Motown sound is sweeping the nation. Girl groups are hotter than ever. Over their mother’s (Whitney Houston) objections, three beautiful sisters—Delores (Tika Sumpter), Sister (Carmen Ejogo) and Sparkle (Jordin Sparks) —are taking the local music scene by storm. But their dreams are bigger than Detroit. Their manager, Stix (Derek Luke), is just as ambitious and will do whatever it takes to make it to the big time, even if it means using the girls—and his love for Sparkle—as the foundation of a new musical empire.

Behind the music and lights, the recording industry is a ruthless and unforgiving place, just as Mama had warned her girls. Sister, with her good looks and voice, is the natural headliner of the trio, yet her complicated personal life threatens to overshadow her talent; Delores has her sights set on a different kind of life outside the spotlight; and young Sparkle must push past her deepest fears if she is to fulfill her destiny—does she really have what it takes to go all the way?

Whitney Houston's Final Film Sparkle

Riveting and soul-stirring, this timeless tale reminds us of the unbreakable bonds between family, the high price of fame and what can happen when we dare to show the world how brightly we can sparkle. They had a dream. She had it all.

Whitney Houston's Final Film Sparkle

About Empire International – Gulf
For nearly 90 years, Empire has been the driving force in the movie business throughout the Arab world. Using its unparalleled expertise and experience in the cinema industry, Empire has successfully built a solid reputation and gained the confidence of millions of movie fans throughout Lebanon and the Middle East. Today not only is Empire the oldest exhibitor in the region, but it is also the largest single distributor in the Middle East with offices in Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan and Lebanon.

Empire is credited with overseeing the release of no less than 8 of the top 20 biggest movies of all time at the box office, making it the most successful distributor in the region. Empire is the exclusive theatrical distributors of Sony Pictures Releasing International which comprises of Columbia pictures, MGM/UA, Sony Classics, Tri Star and Screen Gems since 1964 and Twentieth Century Fox which includes Regency, Fox Searchlight, Fox Atomic, Fox 2000 and Blue Sky since 1988.

Dubai, UAE – October 17, 2012: Cavalli Club, Restaurant and Lounge, the ultimate destination for style and entertainment in Dubai is honored to announce receiving the coveted World’s Finest Clubs Award. The World’s Finest Clubs (WFC) identified Cavalli Club, Restaurant and Lounge based on the luxurious clubbing quality, incomparable service, exceptional performances and entertainment in its aims to award the most exclusive nightclubs worldwide with the “World’s Finest Clubs Award”. In celebration of the award, Cavalli Club, Restaurant and Lounge hosted a performance by the strikingly talented Vanesa Klein a star revelation on the international house scene, on Friday, October 19, 2012.

In addition to the award, association with the World’s Finest Clubs enters Cavalli Club, Restaurant and Lounge into a network of the most exclusive, trend-setting and elegant member clubs in the world and the quality seal denotes the venue as a highly regarded internationally reputable venue. The award is an accolade which stands for uniqueness, exclusivity and luxury; hallmarks of the World’s Finest Clubs association.

“This is a wonderful honor to receive the World’s Finest Club’s Award and we are excited to welcome members of WFC to Cavalli Club, Restaurant and Lounge. We work to maintain high standards at our venue, and we are proud that it has been recognized by WFC. The award is a caveat to the service that we strive to provide our bespoke clientele from across the globe,” David Lescarret, General Manager of White Label explained.

WFC is also an exclusive network of the who’s-who of jet set society developed to satisfy the most demanding expectations for premium clubbers and partygoers across the globe.  The World Member Card which comes with the privileged membership is the key past the velvet rope, an entrance to the world of A-List soirees, and an each participating club is strictly vetted by The World’s Finest Clubs to ensure that it reaches the standard of class to which members are accustomed to. Membership of The World’s Finest Clubs entitles members and a guest to enjoy free access to participating clubs around the world, all-access VIP privilege, free valet parking and special room rates on participating 5-star hotels.

About Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge
Inspired by and launched in collaboration with celebrated designer, Roberto Cavalli, Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge is the distillation of all things fabulous. Located in the Fairmont Hotel, the glittering restaurant and lounge is dripping in signature Cavalli icons from animal prints to sparkling crystals. Launched in 2009, Cavalli Club is a jewel in the crown of Pragma Group‘s successful Pragma Lifestyle vertical. With plans in the pipeline to expand the experience internationally, Cavalli Club is set to become an international destination for the world’s jetsetting elite.

About Pragma Group
Pragma Group is an organization that balances the art and science of business. Focusing on two essential areas of today’s modern world, lifestyle and technology, Pragma Group blends skill and investment to grow brands within these two industries using the most effective business models and partnerships to make it happen.

Smart and successful, Lebanon-based Pragma Group has worked with international partners to launch concepts in the Middle East over the past seven years, as well as build a number of businesses from the ground up, creating a well-structured family of companies.

Having a strong eye for opportunities, Pragma Group has also put its management team to further use by nurturing the growth and development of young, new ventures that promised great potential. With unsurpassed experience garnered over many years in the Middle East, Pragma Group offers sustainable success for its businesses, partners and investors from around the region and the world.

Pragma Group owns and operates the following brands: LS2-Pluto, Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge, Bo House, Health Factory, Epicure, Lina’s Café, Le Talleyrand and the newly launched nightlife venue, Cirque Du Soir.

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 21 October, 2012: Image Nation Abu Dhabi’s first local production, ‘Sea Shadow’, has been selected to screen onboard leading regional airlines Etihad, Emirates, flydubai, Oman Air, and Qatar Airways.

Following the film’s success in GCC theatres and in festivals around the world, ‘Sea Shadow’ is now reaching new heights as it takes to the sky on the airlines’ onboard entertainment systems, connecting the film with the millions of passengers who fly on these airlines every month.

“This is another wonderful milestone for Image Nation Abu Dhabi’s first feature, ‘Sea Shadow’. We are incredibly proud of how the film has been received, first in cinemas around the region, then with its continued success in festivals around the world, and now reaching a whole new international audience onboard these leading regional airlines,” commented Michael Garin, CEO of Image Nation Abu Dhabi.

Sea Shadow

“It is excellent to see that our regional carriers have recognized that we now have home-grown talent worthy of showcasing for their passengers, and we are incredibly excited to share this touching Emirati film with the world via these airlines.”

Directed by Nawaf Al-Janahi and written by Mohammed Hassan Ahmed, ‘Sea Shadow’ tells the story of Emirati teenagers Mansoor and Kaltham as they struggle with tradition and convention in their journey towards adulthood.

To date, the film has been shown at the following festivals:  Abu Dhabi Film Festival, Palm Springs International Film Festival, Muscat International Film Festival, Gulf Film Festival, Zlin Film Festival (Czech Republic), Shanghai International Film Festival, Rabat Film Festival (Morocco) and Munchen Film Festival (Germany).

‘Sea Shadow’ is now playing onboard the Etihad, Emirates, flydubai, Oman Air, and Qatar Airways in-flight entertainment systems, and will screen until November 30th on Etihad Airways, February 1st on Oman Air and flydubai, and until March 31st on Emirates and Qatar Air.

Sea Shadow