How to Dream: Producing Your Own Show as an Independent Artist

Step into the world of independent artistry for an intimate and inspiring workshop that explores what it really takes to bring your artistic vision to life. Led by Dana Naidu and Edenojie from the Tasty Biscuits, and multilingual singer/songwriter, Gaya, How to Dream invites participants to experience the magic of collaboration, creativity, and community. The session delves into the process of building small ideas to sold-out independent productions that’s redefining the live music experience in the UAE. Through honest conversations and hands-on exercises, participants learn how to shape their ideas into fully realized performances, navigate the realities of being an independent artist, and build spaces that amplify original music.

Come ready to dream, discuss, and design your own artistic world. This workshop is an invitation to believe that your story deserves a stage, and that you have the power to build it.

Dana Naidu and Edenjoie (from The Tasty Biscuits)

The Tasty Biscuits are redefining what it means to be independent artists in the U.A.E. Known for their genre-bending sound, tight harmonies, and storytelling, this band doesn’t just perform — they connect. Since 2021, they’ve been making their mark on stages across the UAE, from intimate showcases and festivals to massive arena gigs — including opening for Teddy Swims at the Formula 1 After-Race Concerts at Etihad Park. In 2023 and 2024, they sold out two powerful editions of their self-produced concert series, The Tasting Session Live, which became a home for original music and collaborative performance. With a deep love for live shows and an ever-growing community that follows them everywhere, The Tasty Biscuits thrive on creating moments that feel honest, warm, and wildly human. In 2025, they’ll release their first album. Built on collaboration, groove, and that unmistakable stank face, The Tasty Biscuits are more than a band — they’re a movement.

Gaya

Chennai-born, Dubai-bred, multilingual singer/songwriter Gaya’s music blends the rich traditions of Carnatic and Hindustani classical music from her upbringing with genres of soul, pop & gospel, staying true to her journey as a third culture kid. Based between Mumbai & Dubai, with recent performances at Sole DXB and the premiere of her multi-disciplinary indie musical A Night of Qisse in Dubai in 2024, her live experiences are crafted as a journey of her story as a South Asian artist growing up in 90s Dubai featuring songs in English, Hindi & Tamil from her 13-year repertoire as a songwriter and singer. With her latest indie releases from her record Qisse - Gaya has come to prominence in the Indian indie music scene and touted as one of the most promising artists by major music publications like Rolling Stone and art communities like Homegrown in India. She has collaborated with the likes of Grammy-winning artist Joss Stone, Florence & the Machine and Farhan Akhtar on his ‘Echoes’ Tour in Mumbai as well as performed at iconic venues like Joe’s Pub at The Public Theater, Troubadour London, NMACC Mumbai, Dubai Opera House during her tours in the US, UK, Europe & India. Producing & releasing music since 2011, Gaya is recognised as a pioneer in the Middle East being the first artist in the region to crowdfund a full-length album raising over $25,000 in 10 days on Indiegogo from her growing community of listeners. She is also one of the first artists to be awarded the UAE Golden Visa for her contribution to the arts & culture in the region and is a Sennheiser microphone ambassador.