Ahoy, explorers of ancient tales and musical wonders!
Our treasure hunt ventures to the lands of the Arabian Nights, where the whispers of “Open Sesame” unlock doors to hidden treasures. The Legend of Ali-Baba, composed and arranged by Bert Appermont and Steven van Baelen, brings this timeless tale to life through the magic of music.
🏺 The Clue That Opens the Door
"Amidst
the sands where the Tigris and Euphrates meet,
Ancient whispers of 'Open Sesame' echo
Through bustling bazaars and storied minarets."
The answer lies in Baghdad, Iraq, the cultural backdrop of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.
🗺️ A City of Timeless Tales
Baghdad, a jewel of the Middle East, has long been a centre of art, knowledge, and storytelling. Its bustling bazaars and ornate minarets paint a backdrop one could imagine for the adventures of Ali Baba, a clever woodcutter who discovers the treasure of the Forty Thieves. The tale, a late addition to the Arabian Nights collection, weave’s themes of courage, cunning, and the allure of hidden riches.
While Baghdad holds a significant place in Middle Eastern history and is central to many tales within One Thousand and One Nights, there is sadly no direct connection between the city and the story of "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves." The tale is simply set in Persia and was introduced to the Arabian Nights collection in the 18th century. Nonetheless, Baghdad's rich cultural heritage continues to inspire artistic interpretations that evoke the mystique and wonder of classic Middle Eastern folklore, so it is our stop for this piece.
🎼 Music That Brings the Tale to Life
Bert Appermont and Steven van Baelen’s arrangement captures the exotic allure and dramatic intrigue of Ali Baba’s story. From the bustling bazaars to the magical caves, each note is infused with the rich textures of Middle Eastern music, creating a vivid auditory tapestry.
🏴☠️ Join the Treasure Hunt!
Solve the clues, uncover the tale, and explore the rich heritage behind the music. Share yer discoveries with #TreasureHunt on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube and claim an exalted position fit for a sultan’s court.
Don’t miss yer chance to experience The Legend of Ali-Baba live at “Treasure Hunt”. Tickets are as rare as a magic carpet ride—grab yours now via www.kgwo.org.au.
The sands of time shift, and the next clue awaits. Onward, adventurers!
—Yer Captain of Musical Mysteries 🎻
Clue:
"Where
the lion city guards a strait,
And waters teem with tales of piracy,
The East meets the West under sails and stars."