Fadista Sonia Shirsat was invited to perform the soulful music form of Fado in the Holy Land – in Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Both concerts were very well received. The local crowds highly appreciated the performances. The concert in Bethlehem was held on the Star Street that leads to the Church of Nativity. The concert in Jerusalem was held in the Old City, another World Heritage Site near the Lion Gate. The concerts began with an instrumental piece played by Goan musicians Orlando de Noronha (Portuguese guitar), Dr Allan Abreu (12 string guitar) and Carlos Meneses (Viola de Fado). Shirsat regaled the audiences with her powerful yet sensitive voice, interpreting famous fados in her own style. Shirsat and her troupe were invited to the Holy Land by the Portuguese Ambassador to Palestine Dr Rui Baceira, Institute Camões and the Bethlehem Music Academy
