RCRC Launches 2nd Riyadh Film Music Festival at Princess Nourah University
The capital city of Riyadh is set to launch the second edition of the Riyadh Film Music Festival on Sunday, July 28, 2025, at the Red Hall Theater of Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. The festival will run until August 9, organized by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), with the participation of acclaimed composers and creatives from around the world.
The festival aims to deliver a unique audio-visual experience that blends screenings of iconic films with live orchestral performances, reflecting the Royal Commission’s commitment to supporting the arts and enriching the cultural landscape in the capital—fully aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
This year’s festival offers an immersive audio-visual experience where audiences will watch full-length films on a giant screen, while a live orchestra performs the score in real-time. The synchronization between the visual narrative and live music enhances the emotional impact of each scene, creating a multi-sensory journey that brings cinematic storytelling to life like never before.
This second edition returns to explore the musical dimension of cinematic storytelling through a diverse program of global films accompanied by live performances of their original scores. The lineup includes:
Top Gun: Maverick
Tom Cruise reprises his role as the legendary pilot Maverick in a high-octane aerial adventure that blends action and emotional depth. The film will be screened alongside a live orchestra performing its powerful score.
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
A classic sea-bound adventure featuring Captain Jack Sparrow, curses, and mythical treasures, brought to life with live orchestral accompaniment, including the iconic piece He’s a Pirate.
Back to the Future
The beloved time-travel journey with Marty McFly and Doc Brown returns in its original version, accompanied by a live orchestra performing Alan Silvestri’s unforgettable score—a tribute to classic sci-fi cinema.
The Lion King
Simba’s legendary journey comes alive once again in a musical presentation that pairs the film’s most powerful scenes with Hans Zimmer’s iconic score, redefining animated film music for a new generation.
The live performances will be led by Ernst Van Tiel, an acclaimed Dutch conductor known for his extensive work with international symphony orchestras and film music. The Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra, comprising over 50 musicians, will bring the scores to life on stage.
Tickets will be available in four categories — Standard 150SR, Gold 250SR, Platinum 350SR, and VIP 450SR — each offering a unique seating experience and exclusive benefits.
Details of the full program and featured participants will be announced soon through the festival’s official channels.