She may be just weeks away from giving birth, but pop star Katy Perry is coming to Tomorrowland.
The US singer will deliver a virtual performance as part of the mega dance festival's upcoming digital event, Tomorrowland Around the World.
Running on Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26, Perry headlines a bill that features leading EDM acts Armin van Buuren, David Guetta, Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, as well as Martin Garrix.
The exact timing of Perry’s performance will be revealed soon by organisers.
To announce the news, the California Gurls singer, who is expecting her first child with fiance Orlando Bloom, jumped on a video call with Garrix.
"I’ve always wanted to be a part of the fun of Tomorrowland, and have been following the amazing innovation, technology and invention that this festival has always been about for a long time,” she said.
“I’m so glad to be a part of this version, and I hope my set makes you smile."
To complement the dance music of the festival, Perry said her set will be fast-moving and similar to a DJ performance, in that her tracks will blend into each other.
“All of my songs I've made it so that it would continue and never lose momentum,” she said. “That's probably the most important about playing Tomorrowland."
In addition to her hits Roar, Dark Horse and Hot N Cold, Perry will undoubtedly use the event to promote her new single Smile, which also happens to be the name of her upcoming sixth album, out on Friday, August 14.
A digital spectacle
Perry’s appearance ramps up the anticipation surrounding Tomorrowland Around the World.
For the virtual spin-off of the main physical event, which was supposed to take place this month in Belgium, a team of 100 digital creatives have been tasked with creating a cutting-edge online spectacle.
As revealed in a 35-second trailer, the event will feature eight virtual stages in various landscapes ranging from the mouth of Mars-like red mountains to a teeming megalopolis on the edge of an ocean.
Perry and the DJs will be superimposed on to the digital stages as they physically perform from various studios around the world.
In a recent interview with The National, Tomorrowland spokesperson Debby Wilmsen said the event is ground-breaking in terms of technology and scope.
“For everyone involved, this is all something new and something different,” she said. “We saw many other events that were basically live-streaming or gaming concerts where the artists and crowd are avatars. We didn’t want to do either of those, so instead, we are attempting to combine both techniques.”
Tickets for Tomorrowland Around the World, held on Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26, cost from €12.50 (Dh52) for a day pass, or €20 (Dh83) for weekend passes including a week of video-on-demand content. The festival runs each day from 5pm UAE time to 3am. For details go to www.tomorrowland.com
Who has lived at The Bishops Avenue?
- George Sainsbury of the supermarket dynasty, sugar magnate William Park Lyle and actress Dame Gracie Fields were residents in the 1930s when the street was only known as ‘Millionaires’ Row’.
- Then came the international super rich, including the last king of Greece, Constantine II, the Sultan of Brunei and Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal who was at one point ranked the third richest person in the world.
- Turkish tycoon Halis Torprak sold his mansion for £50m in 2008 after spending just two days there. The House of Saud sold 10 properties on the road in 2013 for almost £80m.
- Other residents have included Iraqi businessman Nemir Kirdar, singer Ariana Grande, holiday camp impresario Sir Billy Butlin, businessman Asil Nadir, Paul McCartney’s former wife Heather Mills.
Hunting park to luxury living
- Land was originally the Bishop of London's hunting park, hence the name
- The road was laid out in the mid 19th Century, meandering through woodland and farmland
- Its earliest houses at the turn of the 20th Century were substantial detached properties with extensive grounds
Fresh faces in UAE side
Khalifa Mubarak (24) An accomplished centre-back, the Al Nasr defender’s progress has been hampered in the past by injury. With not many options in central defence, he would bolster what can be a problem area.
Ali Salmeen (22) Has been superb at the heart of Al Wasl’s midfield these past two seasons, with the Dubai club flourishing under manager Rodolfo Arrubarrena. Would add workrate and composure to the centre of the park.
Mohammed Jamal (23) Enjoyed a stellar 2016/17 Arabian Gulf League campaign, proving integral to Al Jazira as the capital club sealed the championship for only a second time. A tenacious and disciplined central midfielder.
Khalfan Mubarak (22) One of the most exciting players in the UAE, the Al Jazira playmaker has been likened in style to Omar Abdulrahman. Has minimal international experience already, but there should be much more to come.
Jassim Yaqoub (20) Another incredibly exciting prospect, the Al Nasr winger is becoming a regular contributor at club level. Pacey, direct and with an eye for goal, he would provide the team’s attack an extra dimension.
The five pillars of Islam
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Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged and three electric motors
Power: Combined output 920hp
Torque: 730Nm at 4,000-7,000rpm
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel consumption: 11.2L/100km
On sale: Now, deliveries expected later in 2025
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The biog
Favourite food: Tabbouleh, greek salad and sushi
Favourite TV show: That 70s Show
Favourite animal: Ferrets, they are smart, sensitive, playful and loving
Favourite holiday destination: Seychelles, my resolution for 2020 is to visit as many spiritual retreats and animal shelters across the world as I can
Name of first pet: Eddy, a Persian cat that showed up at our home
Favourite dog breed: I love them all - if I had to pick Yorkshire terrier for small dogs and St Bernard's for big
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