Saudi Gazette report

Riyadh — “Saturday Night Fever” star John Travolta charmed his fans with interactive sessions here on Friday and Saturday.

“I have been completely touched by the warmth and embracing nature of everyone since I’ve arrived,” he told his fans who filled the Apex Convention Center on Friday.

“When I heard the amazing coincidence being invited to Saudi Arabia and cinema being back, I felt privileged to be here to celebrate a new era!” said the 63-year-old acclaimed actor.

“It’s important to give but it’s also important to accept love and care for yourself,” the Golden Globe Award winner said, adding, “The only people that cheated on their dreams are the people that gave up on them.”

“Creativity and dreaming are free! You must continue to fight for your dreams and not give up.”

The events were organized by the General Entertainment Authority.

As part of the Crown Prince’s modernization drive, the Kingdom has recently organized artistic events and has also announced the forthcoming reopening of previously banned cinemas.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) signed a deal with the US-based movie chain AMC Entertainment.

PIF said Saudi Arabia’s cinema space is valued at $1 billion, and other interested parties — such as Vox Cinema owner, Majid Al Futtaim — are looking to move into the sector.

According to the General Entertainment Authority, many famous singers will be performing in Saudi Arabia in the coming months.

Renowned Greek composer and pianist Yanni performed in Jeddah and Riyadh.

Rapper Nelly gave a concert Thursday in Jeddah.

“It’s amazing to have your music transcend and be accepted globally, not just by where you come from but also by people who have never met you or seen you before,” the 42-year-old Nelly told reporters before his performance. “This experience is probably bigger for me than it is for you guys, so it feels great to be here,” said the three-times Grammy winner known for such hits as “Hot in Herre”.