DUBAI: Lebanese dance group Mayyas, winners of “America’s Got Talent,” are all set to perform in Lebanon on Aug. 1, with founder and choreographer Nadim Cherfan revealing to Arab News this week that the team is tapping into the genre of drama for the first time.
“We are doing a dramatic scene. People are used to seeing the Mayas perform mythology and fantasy, but this is the first time we’re hitting drama,” he told Arab News.
Cherfan teased that the show will be a “realistic” reflection of the daily lives of Lebanese people.
The choreographer said that his inspiration for this show, as with most of his work, comes from women.
“I was raised by a single mom and my grandma as well, so I always see strength in women. To me, Beirut is a woman,” he said. “For this theater play, everything goes back to my mom, my grandmother, and every woman who has struggled and endured heartaches to stand up again and again.
“This theater play is a tribute to every mother in Lebanon.”
Cherfan said that because this show holds a special place in the dancers’ hearts, they do not need any additional motivation.
“When you are doing what you love, motivation comes second. Everyone working on this project is driven by passion and love for this country. We are all motivating each other, connected to this story and feel responsible for this country,” he said.
Besides winning the 17th season of “America’s Got Talent,” a highlight for Mayyas was performing alongside US superstar Beyonce at the opening of Atlantis The Royal in Dubai in 2023.
“Beyonce has been my dream since I was a child,” Cherfan said. “She is the artist of my life, and working with her made my dream come true. Since then, it has been really hard to work with any other artist because, as we all know, the queen has set the standard really high. It was an experience I will never forget.”
Cherfan said he and his team spent eight consecutive days working with Beyonce on the show. “She is a hardworking artist, involved in everything happening behind the scenes, backstage and on stage,” he said.
Speaking about performing in Saudi Arabia, Cherfan said: “Saudi Arabia has been another home to the Mayyas. This country is deeply invested in the arts. The way we are treated in Saudi Arabia is top-notch — very respectful and generous. They take care of everyone on the team. So anytime Saudi Arabia knocks on the door, Mayyas will answer.”
