Manar Elbaz

DUBAI: From “One Piece” to “Demon Slayer,” Dubai’s Zabeel Theatre is hosting a one-of-a-kind anime tribute concert on Aug. 15 where fans will enjoy the iconic soundtracks being played on the piano and violin in a majestic setting. 

The concert is part of the ‘Dreamlight’ concert series. Launched in 2024, the series is usually held in Europe and honors anime and video game soundtracks through live arrangements played by experienced musicians surrounded by magical visuals that immerse guests. 

The Dubai concert will be performed by pianist Bertan Balli and violinist Chanelle Bednarczyk, who became fans of Japanese music through anime during their childhood. 

“I’ve loved anime since I was a child, so it felt natural to also play their soundtracks on the piano. What fascinates me most about these OSTs is their incredible stylistic diversity – from romantic, orchestral pieces to modern, rhythm-driven tracks, they cover an entire spectrum of musical expression,” Balli told Arab News Japan. 

Bednarczyk, who was admitted to Vienna’s University of Music and Performing Arts at the age of 12, echoed the pianist’s statement. 

“The soundtracks from anime movies, especially those from Studio Ghibli, have a way of transporting you to another world. Even without being a big anime expert, I feel inspired by the beauty, detail, and atmosphere of these works. ” he said.

The violinist shared that the concept for the “Best of Anime” show started after performing a live arrangement dedicated to the soundtrack of Netflix’s “League of Legends”-inspired animation show “Arcane”. 

“(That show) inspired the idea for ‘Best of Anime’: to take anime soundtracks that touch the heart—from beloved classics to hidden gems—and bring them to the stage in a unique violin and piano format,” he shared. 

Balli added that anime resonates with people from various cultures due to its universal themes, so he was confident a live show dedicated to the soundtrack will attract the audience. 

“I was immediately excited by the idea of bringing anime music to the stage in a classical setting,” he said. “Being there from the very beginning (of the Dreamlight establishment), I knew right away that I wanted to be part of it—there was never any doubt.”

Having performed various shows across Europe, the duo’s performances were well received, making them more excited to perform in the Middle East. 

“What touches me most is when people tell me how deeply the concert moved them. I’ve often seen audiences immerse themselves emotionally and leave with personal memories —that’s what makes each performance unique,” Balli shared. 

He added that the “Best of Anime” shows are specifically special because they are created by people who share a deep love for anime. 

“Everyone involved in this show shares a genuine passion for anime. Sharing that sense of connection with the audience makes the project truly special. On top of that, our concept creates a uniquely intimate atmosphere—from the stage design to the music itself—that sets it apart from other concerts,” Balli said.

This will be the pianist’s first time performing in the GCC or Japan. He told Arab News Japan that he is excited to meet the audience and experience the culture.

Bednarczyk, however, has performed in GCC and Japan before and looks forward to returning. “Each of these experiences (performing around the GCC and Japan) was truly motivating—playing for audiences with different cultural backgrounds and seeing their reactions is always inspiring.”

The musicians hope that guests will connect with the show and will leave the show feeling inspired by the music. 

“My hope is to connect with the audience on an emotional level and to share an evening that stays with them—a concert that becomes a special memory they can carry with them long after the last note fades,” Bednarczyk told Arab News Japan. 

The concert starts at 8:00pm and tickets are available online. While there is no specific dress code, the theatre is encouraging guests to cosplay as their favorite characters.