Programs and Events
U.S. Hip-Hop band ‘Opus Akoben’
As part of the embassy’s youth outreach, the Public Affairs Office invited US Hip-Hop band ‘Opus Akoben’ to give a public performance to more than 500 Bahraini youths and their families. The concert which was co-sponsored by the Ministry of Information was held on February 22, 2006, at the Bahrain Heritage Village.
In order to introduce and familiarize the young Bahrainis with the American Hip-Hop music, the band held music workshops at ‘Al Naseem School’ and ‘New York Institute for Technology, for the students and teaching faculty. With the big turnout of 50+ students, in each venue, the band performed samples of their music, spoke about free-styling of Hip-Hop music and the history of Hip-Hop. The workshops were a success, as the students were welcomed to ask questions and engage in issues on American culture. The students were also encouraged to provide their personal emails to exchange ideas on music with their counterparts in the US; one of many ways to bridge cultural gaps between youngsters of both countries.
Other activities included a press conference and open rehearsals for local journalists,
Mini-performance at the Education USA Expo, held on February 23, 2006, at the Sheraton Hotel and a Hip-Hop Clinic for Bahraini music artists and DJs.
The band received major press and media coverage prior and during its short stay in Bahrain.