Turki bin Abdul Mohsen Al Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority (GEA), has signed a number Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) in London between GEA and a group of entities as part of efforts to diversify the kingdom's entertainment offering and attract contributions from world-class professionals and operators.

The MoUs encompass a rich array of entertainment categories including live performances, touring theme parks, outdoor cinemas, and more.

Among the agreements signed is an MoU with ‘Flying Music’ to organise a number of global theatrical shows such as ‘Thriller’. Another MoU will see British magician Steven Frayne, popularly known as Dynamo on stage, perform in Saudi Arabia. Other deals will see The Works bring The Illusionists to the Kingdom; Luna Cinema organise open-air cinema screenings and 1001 Inventions present touring educational exhibitions.

Agreements were also signed with Design Lab Experience to organise Ramadan tents featuring quality entertainment options in various locations in the kingdom, while TeamPartner Three, which is specialised in touring theatres, will operate two state-of-the-art theatres and train Saudi teams. MoUs were also signed with Durrat Arriyadh and Durrat Al Arus to utilise their infrastructure and facilities for entertainment events.

With regards to television shows, Al Sheikh has signed an MoU with Police Academy to present interactive shows for audiences in a dedicated area. He has also signed a deal with Ultimate Soldier Challenge to produce the 'Soldiers Challenge’ show, which will feature the participation of Saudi armed forces members.

On the festivals front, Al Sheikh signed an MoU with ‘Ferrari Festival’ to present an interactive public parade showcasing Italian Ferrari vehicles, and an MoU with ‘Mellors Group’, specialised in operating touring theme parks, has also be been signed.

Al Sheikh has also inked MoUs with Insomnia to organise one of the largest video game exhibitions in the world and 'DOTA2’ will organise a festival featuring the famous game. Merlin Entertainment will bring the famous ‘Madame Tussauds’ wax museum to the kingdom and IMG will organise ‘The Color Run’ race in the country. - TradeArabia News Service