Constantinople: Oum Kalthoum & the Quatrains of Khayyam The timeless poetry of Omar Khayyam meets the unforgettable musical world of Oum Kalthoum in this extraordinary performance by Constantinople with Ghalia Benali. Reimagined through Persian and Arabic musical traditions, early music, contemporary composition, and live improvisation, the performance brings poetry, voice, and music into conversation across centuries. Songs inspired by Khayyam's quatrains, composed by Riad El Sonbati and made famous through Oum Kalthoum's interpretations, become the starting point for a new artistic journey. Led by Iranian-Canadian composer and setar virtuoso Kiya Tabassian, Constantinople is joined by Tunisian-Belgian vocalist Ghalia Benali, whose deep connection to Oum Kalthoum's repertoire brings insight, presence, and a distinctive contemporary voice. This concert is part of Ishq Festival 2026, produced by Small World Music.