The Agenda, Dubai Media City, Dubaï
Music by Nazim Khaled | Directed & Choreographed by Johan Nus
17 dancers and 8 actors on stage
Set against a backdrop of Dubai’s skyline and rich cultural diversity, Once Upon a Time in Dubai explores themes of love, ambition, betrayal, and truth. The story follows Sophia, a dancer aspiring to start a new life in Dubai, and Will, her longtime partner, whose relationship is shaken by mysterious circumstances. As the city prepares for Diwali, their destinies intertwine with those of Kym, a director staging an ambitious new production, and Elias, Sophia’s manipulative employer. 🎭
Once Upon a Time in Dubai invites audiences to dive into a city where anything seems possible—a place where dreams take shape at breathtaking speed. At the crossroads of reality and fantasy, the show explores the image of a spectacular, modern Dubai that is constantly evolving.
Through dance, music, and performance, this creation offers a sensory journey into a world of contrasts: tradition and futurism, desert landscapes and visionary architecture, silence and vibrant energy. Here, Dubai becomes a living backdrop—an imaginative space where ambition, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence meet.
The staging draws inspiration from the city’s unique energy: a metropolis built on the belief that everything can be invented, reinvented, and surpassed. Choreographic and visual sequences reflect this dynamic through striking imagery, powerful rhythms, and a bold, spectacular aesthetic.
More than a portrait of a city, Once Upon a Time in Dubai tells a universal story—that of women and men from different backgrounds brought together by a shared desire for the future and for creation. The show celebrates diversity, the meeting of cultures, and humanity’s enduring ability to dream big.
This production is conceived as an immersive and visual experience, where each scene becomes a living postcard of this fascinating city. Blending modernity, glamour, and collective energy, the show offers an artistic journey that is at once poetic, spectacular, and deeply contemporary.
With Once Upon a Time in Dubai, I wanted to create a world where the stage becomes a space for dreams—a place where imagination meets reality, and where the story of a city becomes the story of everyone who dares to believe in their dreams.
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Costume Design Studies for Once Upon a Time in Dubai
LA FABRIQUE OPÉRA | GRENOBLE
Music by Leonard Bernstein | Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim | Book by Arthur Laurents | Directed & Choreographed by Johan Nus l Orchestra conducted by Patrick Souillot
25 ARTISTS ON STAGE | Grenoble University Symphony Orchestra | Choir of 60 Singers
From its very first performance in 1957 at the Winter Garden Theatre on Broadway, West Side Story revolutionized the American musical. Inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, it became an international success both on stage and on screen, with two film adaptations—by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins in 1961, and by Steven Spielberg in 2021—that helped make it one of the most famous musical works of the 20th century.
Photo : Yann Marchais
Our production revisits the era, its codes, and its aesthetic while emphasizing the notion of space and belonging. In doing so, we delve into the heart of identity and social questions that still resonate strongly today.
Through evocative set designs—most notably the iconic staircases symbolizing social ascent in New York apartment buildings—we explore the concept of place and its impact on the characters. For Maria, these staircases represent not only the physical environment in which she lives, but also a metaphor for her aspirations and dreams. Can she break the chains of family tradition and find her own path in a world that is constantly changing?
Modern urban communities face similar challenges: the question of sharing public space and learning to live together despite differences, or choosing to step away in search of individual freedom. This is a dilemma many young people face today. By bringing it to life through the story of West Side Story, we invite audiences to reflect on our contemporary society.
The modernity of this work—while respecting the codes established by Jerome Robbins—will also emerge through movement. The narrative and the progression of the story unfold through dance. Movement will take on rougher, more urban qualities for the Sharks, and more traditional forms for the Jets. Dance will embody the reality of this story: bodies that collide, love, and avoid one another.
By embracing this landmark work, we commit to honoring its musical legacy while exploring its themes in a fresh and relevant way. This production of West Side Story will be both a tribute to the originality and vision of its creators and a work that resonates deeply with the concerns and aspirations of our time.
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Resounding success for the premiere of West Side Story at Summum
Ledauphine.com | 17 mai 2025
In accordance with strict staging specifications, the troupe of dancers and singers assembled around Johan Nus brings striking relevance to the conflicts of a society that, according to him, is “on the brink of collapse in a world that is destroying itself.”
Les Affiches de Grenoble et du Dauphiné
Johan Nus has his eye on everything... The stage director is no stranger to musicals... “He's a star in his field! He has a calmness, a high standard, and a kindness that I've only encountered in the greatest,” says Patrick Souillot, director of La Fabrique Opéra. He's the perfect personality for an iconic musical like West Side Story.
Le Dauphiné Libéré | 15 mai 2025
OPÉRA DE VICHY | GOPÉRA DE SAINT-ÉTIENNE | PBA | THÉÂTRE DE COMPIÈGNE
Version MUNY | Book by Stéphane Bourrais | Text L. Frank Baum, adapted by Frank Gabrielson | Music and lyrics MGM motion picture | Art director Mohamed Yamani | Directed & Choreographed by Johan Nus
20 ARTISTS ON STAGE | Orchestra of 13 musicians
The Wizard of Oz tells the adventures of Dorothy, a young girl swept away by a cyclone to a fantastical world. There, she befriends a scarecrow, a tin man, and a cowardly lion. Together, they confront an evil witch to meet the Wizard of Oz, who could help them achieve their dreams and find their way. In a contemporary staging, Johan Nus highlights the essential values of this timeless work: heart, courage, knowledge, and love for others. The show questions our era and the values that guide us, revealing the true strength of humanity: love, sharing, and living together.
In this contemporary staging of The Wizard of Oz, I wish to highlight the fundamental values of this timeless work: heart, courage, knowledge, and above all, love for others. These qualities that sometimes seem simple reveal the true strength of each character and their ability to live together in a world where the collective interest prevails over individualism. individualism.
A journey in today's Kansas: Dorothy, a lost young girl, is in search of an ideal world where one can take the time to observe today: Dorothy, a lost young girl, is in search of an ideal world where one can take the time to observe and breathe. This modern Kansas allows for the juxtaposition of the reality of our time with the dream of a better world, where the ideal and the truth are sought. and thru trials.
In this journey thru an imaginary world, Dorothy and her companions discover a universe governed by "wizards," figures of authority who only act in their own interest. This world, metaphorical and fictional, reflects the manipulations and selfishness encountered encountered in our current society. Yet, it is in this hostile environment that the characters discover what truly constitutes truly constitutes the strength of an individual. The staging then questions the spectator: does power reside in manipulation and control, or in the ability to love, to recognize the quality of others, and to build together a future? others, and to build a common future together? common future?
A modern and revealing scenography: visually, the staging relies on modern elements such as light, lasers, and filters capable of unveiling the true nature of things. fabric filters capable of revealing the true nature of things. These technological prisms show what lies behind appearances, offering a striking contrast showing a striking contrast with the world of illusions that the characters encounter. In the era of social networks, where everyone uses filters to present themselves in the best light, this staging attempts to discover where the truth really lies. This staging attempts to discover where the truth really lies.
The power of the group thru dance: the choreographies, inspired by the great numbers of Broadway, also hold an important place in this production. They are not merely moments of entertainment. Broadway numbers also hold an important place in this production. They are not just simple moments of entertainment, but illustrate the strength of the group, solidarity, and the characters' progress. Each dance tells a part of the the story, supporting the themes of the narrative and reinforcing the message of each scene.
This staging of The Wizard of Oz aims to be a mirror of our time, questioning the values that guide us and revealing the true strength of humanity: love, sharing, and living together. together. Thru a modern set design and inspired choreography, we discover with Dorothy and her companions what it truly means to be courageous, to have a heart, and to use one's knowledge for the good of all. the good of all.
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The staging and choreography by Johan Nus transport us with happiness and enchantment to the land of Oz. The numerous group dances are exhilarating. A few nods to Michael Jackson and his unforgettable "Thriller" are even slipped in here and there...
Regard en Coulisse | Dan Renier
Johan Nus is a man of challenge. You had to be a bit crazy to dare to revisit this classic and offer a grand American-style show. In the end, an invitation to rediscover a timeless tale for young and old alike. See you this weekend.
LaMontagne.fr
It's a more theatrical version, more suited to stage performance. There are more gags, which are amusing for the audience... There is an orchestra, which is rare in musicals because we usually play with a band.
Franceinfo
Thanks to a contemporary staging and sets faithful to the collective imagination — Kansas farm, Oz forest, yellow brick road, Emerald City palace — the show rekindles childhood memories while adding a modern touch. The choreography, inspired by the great Broadway shows, and the live orchestra (13 musicians) ensure a grand spectacle.
LIVE & SHOOT MAG
Adapted by Johan Nus, the modern staging, fantastic sets, and captivating music immerse the audience in the world of Oz.
RTBF
In a contemporary staging, Johan Nus highlights the essential values of this timeless work: heart, courage, knowledge, and love for others. The show questions our era and the values that guide us, revealing the true strength of humanity: love, sharing, and living together.
FilousByOut
OPÉRA DE MASSY | OPÉRA DE VICHY | French and Belgian tour |2023 | 2024 | 2025
Directed & Choreographed by Johan Nus | Direction musicale Daniel Glet | Artistic Direction & Set Design Mohamed Yamani
18 PERFORMERS ON STAGE | Ars Lyrica Orchestra – 13 musicians
Inspired by the cinematic masterpiece by Robert Wise, this timeless production invites audiences to dive into the moving story of Maria. In 1930s Austria, as the shadow of Nazism spreads across the country, a young novice brings life and joy to the rigid household of Captain von Trapp. Through her love of music and her radiant spirit, she transforms the daily lives of seven children and captures their father’s heart.
With a grand staging featuring 35 talented artists, let yourself be carried away by the enchanting melodies of Richard Rodgers and the poignant lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II.
Despite a threatened global balance with the annexation of territories marked by the Third Reich, Maria brings light to this story through her humanity. She brightens the corridors of the convent, illuminates the daily life of the Von Trapp Family, and rekindles the captain's heart. In this tense historical context, she symbolizes hope. With her help, she enables the family to escape the rise of a totalitarian state where everyone's rights are at risk.
To depict the tension and a dark future, we have chosen a minimalist set design and cold lighting. Maria, representing freedom, brings light and colors to every scene. Through her actions, props, and costumes, we will see the pastel colors emerge. Deliberately, we choose to highlight the colors of the currently invaded countries. This sweetness will then fade with the rise of extremism, giving way to a vibrant red as a reference to Nazism. Only the escape, made possible by Maria, will allow everyone to reach the green plains, symbols of hope.
Even if a destiny seems predetermined, life is not immutable. It results from choices, encounters, and taking risks. Despite the decisions of a warlike state, together they will decide on a different. Despite the decisions of a warlike state, together they will decide on a different destiny for their family. Each one can then write their own story and thus offer peace and freedom.
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Johan Nus’s direction and choreography transport audiences with joy and wonder to the magical land of Oz. The many ensemble dance numbers are exhilarating, and playful nods to Michael Jackson and his unforgettable “Thriller” are cleverly woven throughout the show.
Regard en Coulisse | Dan Renier
Johan Nus is a man who thrives on challenges. It takes a certain boldness to revisit such a beloved classic and turn it into a full-scale American-style musical spectacular. The result is a delightful invitation for audiences of all ages to rediscover a timeless tale. Don’t miss it this weekend.
LaMontagne.fr
This adaptation offers a more theatrical approach, perfectly suited to the stage. It includes additional comedic moments that delight audiences, and features a live orchestra — something rare in musical theatre today, where productions often rely on pre-recorded tracks.
Franceinfo
This adaptation offers a more theatrical approach, perfectly suited to the stage. It includes additional comedic moments that delight audiences, and features a live orchestra — something rare in musical theatre today, where productions often rely on pre-recorded tracks.
LIVE & SHOOT MAG
Adapted by Johan Nus, the modern staging, fantastical sets, and captivating music immerse audiences in the magical world of Oz.
RTBF
In this contemporary interpretation, Johan Nus highlights the essential values at the heart of this timeless story: heart, courage, wisdom, and love for others. The show resonates with our present time and invites us to reflect on the values that guide us, revealing the true strength of humanity: love, sharing, and living together.
FilousByOut
Hippodrome d'Auteuil | PALAIS DES CONGRÈS | CHINE | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025
Composer Essaï Altounian | Lyricist Léa Ivanne | Director Johan Nus | Choreographer Valérie Masset
34 dancers and singers
Noha, the power to live is freely inspired by the Genesis narrative. The numerous animals present are not mere projections but articulated characters created in workshops in France and London. Through their natural attitudes and fluid movements, they fully occupy their place on stage.
This captivating production has won over Chinese audiences with its universal message and inspiring artistic vision. Spectators have been deeply moved by the powerful message conveyed, while being amazed by the spectacular staging.
AirdeParis.fr
“Noah, The Strength to Live” — a technological challenge in the service of a global message.
FranceBleue
The show spares no effort when it comes to visual effects: smoke, image projections layered over the sets, dramatic music, and richly colorful hairstyles and makeup all contribute to a striking visual experience.
LeParisien
The artistic direction fully embraces its bold creative vision. The projections create immersive, multi-dimensional tableaux, constantly transforming the scenery. The result is a remarkable achievement that greatly enhances the audience’s visual immersion.
MusicalAvenue
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Based on the Pink Floyd albumTHE WALL | Directed & Choreographed by Johan Nus
PALAIS DES CONGRÈS | FRENCH ZÉNITH ARENA TOUR | International Tour : Portugal Canada | Grèce
7 musiciens | 5 chanteurs | 10 danseurs
The Wall: The Pink Floyd’s Rock Opera is a contemporary ballet adaptation of the band’s iconic album. An innovative production never before realized, revealing how these legendary melodies resonate through the human body in movement.
A multi-sensory journey into the psychedelic universe of Pink Floyd, the show pays vibrant tribute to this visionary and committed masterpiece — a work that remains as powerful and relevant today as ever.“
Rock'n Folk | Clara Lemaire
OPERA
Création 2022
With Ramona Zahariaand and Kharkiv Soloists
OPERA
Création IN 2016 at the Opera of KHARKIV
International Tour : 2016 to 2023
FAMILY
From 2017 to 2023
Learn more
Création 2019
Around the great classical music pieces, pop and rock tunes that make both young and old dance, this year we will welcome the great film music - the ones that make us dream - such as ET, Star Wars, the Avengers, but also Limelight by Chaplin or Sound of Music...
More dreams and stars in our eyes, our 30 artists, musicians, singers, dancers, and classical ballerinas (making their comeback) will go all out for this new "Little Mozart."
FAMILY
28 novembre 2019
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