The Journey of a young UAE-Based Artist An exclusive interview on 12/12/2024 with Ms.Lara Palmer – Publisher and Editor in Chief of World Arabia Magazine (Courtesy to Khaleej Times – UAE’s longest-running English Language daily Newspaper, launched in 1978 by Galadari Printing and Publishing)
At just 18 years old, Noora Nujum Niyaz has already made a distinctive mark in the realms of music, literature, and performance. Born and raised in the UAE with Indian heritage, Noora’s artistic journey is a harmonious blend of two vibrant cultures that have profoundly shaped her creativity.
Growing up in the UAE, a cultural melting pot, Noora was surrounded by a rich environment that nurtured her artistic aspirations. In an interview with City Times, she expressed her gratitude for being raised in such a culturally rich place, where she felt a deep connection to the country’s traditions and values. At the same time, her Indian roots remained a vital part of her identity, particularly through her six years of classical Indian music training and her education in Indian schools. “This fusion of cultures has greatly influenced my artistic path,” Noora shared. “Studying classical Indian music, in particular, has been a significant part of my creative journey
Noora’s passion for opera began in 2021 as Covid-19 restrictions eased, when she was introduced to the genre and encouraged to delve deeper. A pivotal moment came when she attended a three-week intensive course in Italy, led by Maestro Giovanni Reggioli, specializing in the Belcanto style. “I also had the opportunity to perform in the opera Suor Angelica, which was a transformative experience,” she recalls. “These opportunities were crucial in fostering my love for opera and classical music.”
What sets Noora apart is her ability to perform in multiple languages with both precision and emotion. “When learning a song in a new language, I begin by dissecting each word, understanding its meaning, and appreciating its significance within the song,” she explains. “Once I grasp the context, I focus on perfecting the pronunciation and nuances of the language as it’s sung, followed by working on the melody and any ornamentation to bring the piece to life.”
Having performed on iconic stages, from the Louvre Abu Dhabi to Expo 2020, Noora’s meticulous approach allows her to breathe life into the stories behind each piece, making her performances resonate with diverse audiences.
Musical Theatre Student
Noora is currently pursuing Musical Theatre at the Sharjah Performing Arts Academy, where she continues to refine her voice, stage presence, and storytelling. Her training brings together classical vocal technique, opera influences, and contemporary performance skills, allowing her to explore character, emotion, and movement in a deeper, more expressive way. This journey has strengthened her versatility as a performer and opened doors to new artistic possibilities, shaping her into a confident, multidisciplinary artist ready for the professional stage.
A Voice Beyond the Stage
Noora is a young writer whose literary journey has unfolded across three published books, each introduced at the Sharjah International Book Fair. Her works trace her growth as a poet—from capturing the innocence of childhood to exploring emotion, imagination, and gratitude with increasing depth.
Her debut, Treasures of School Days (2022), reflects the sincerity and curiosity of early youth. Through gentle, heartfelt poems, Noora preserves the laughter, lessons, and quiet reflections of her school years, inviting readers to revisit their own cherished memories.
In A Vivid Memory (2024), she moves into richer emotional territory. The book is divided into two chapters: Her, a tender exploration of inner feelings and youthful resilience, and Souls Neverland, a dreamlike collection that blends reality with imagination. Together, these sections guide readers from intimate self-reflection to more abstract, thought-provoking themes.
As an author, Noora channels her experiences, reflections, and emotions into poetry and short narratives. Her books Treasures of School Days, A Vivid Memory, and Carried with Kindness were all launched at the Sharjah International Book Fair, marking her early but impactful presence in the literary world. Her writing blends simplicity with depth, capturing moments of gratitude, childhood innocence, and inner discovery. Through her words, Noora continues to express a quieter side of her creativity, offering readers a glimpse into her thoughts beyond the stage.
Bringing Characters to Life on Stage
As a theatre artist, Noora approaches performance with emotion, discipline, and a deep respect for storytelling. Her training has exposed her to a range of dramatic styles and character work, helping her explore movement, expression, and the nuances of stage presence. Through workshops, productions, and continuous practice, she has developed a strong sense of connection with her audience, shaping each role with authenticity and care. Theatre allows her to merge voice, acting, and emotion into a single powerful expression, making every performance a meaningful experience.
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