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In these troubled times, as Lebanon is once again plunged into uncertainty, culture remains an unwavering pillar and a bulwark against the darkness threatening to engulf the Land of the Cedars. Despite the challenges the nation faces, the Lebanese display extraordinary resilience, celebrating life with unmatched fervor. In this article, we review the cultural events of August 2024 that have been canceled, postponed or maintained despite the difficult security context.
August 2024 promised to be a month full of hope and expectation. The country eagerly awaited the return of its expatriates, loyal tourists, and all those who find solace in this small paradise. The scheduled festivals and concerts reflected this thirst for life and the unwavering determination to transcend daily hardships.
However, the summer was partially canceled, not due to a lack of will, but because the worshipers of war once again plunged the country into chaos. Hezbollah’s military involvement in the Hamas-Israel conflict further weakened an already fragile economy, leaving the population in a state of constant questioning.
Despite everything, the Lebanese showed up, ignoring the risks and uncertainties. The Al Shami concert, which took place to a full house on July 30 at the Beirut Waterfront, the very night of the attack on the southern suburbs, is a powerful example. This evening demonstrated forcefully that life always triumphs, even in the darkest moments.
Other events also went ahead, such as the theatrical dance show Qoumi by the Mayyas, which attracted no less than 8,600 spectators, the Ghalboun International Festival, the Baalbeck International Festival and the Flea Market. The play Khiyal Sahra, written by Georges Khabbaz and starring Adel Karam and Georges Khabbaz, is also scheduled to run until August 31 at the Casino du Liban. These cultural events are a testament to the Lebanese determination to preserve their way of life.
The sublime performance by the Mayyas on Thursday was a true moment of grace, a vibrant ode to Beirut. These internationally renowned artists, who have graced the world’s most prestigious stages, performed in Lebanon for the first time, offering their audience a show of rare emotional intensity. Their poignant interpretation of Li Beirut paid a moving tribute to southern Lebanon, a region that continues to suffer immensely but rises with courage nonetheless. Their presence powerfully reaffirmed the crucial role of culture in the resilience of the Lebanese people.
Certainly, some concerts had to be canceled or postponed, not for lack of enthusiasm, but because of logistical constraints. Flights to Lebanon are extremely disrupted, making it difficult or even impossible for artists to come. This is the case for the Mzaar Summer Festival, where Vernis Rouge was to perform on August 2.
While some criticize the Lebanese for celebrating while the cannon roars elsewhere, it is time to understand that there are two entities in Lebanon that coexist without ever agreeing. These discordant notes will never form a completed symphony because the concept of life and death is not the same for everyone.
Culture in Lebanon is an act of resistance, a hymn to life in the face of adversity. Every festival held, every concert given is a victory against those who want to see the country sink into the abyss of war. The Lebanese have chosen life, against all odds, because it is in their deep nature to celebrate beauty, art and joy.
In these uncertain times, the Lebanese cultural scene continues to shine brightly, driven by the indomitable spirit of resistance of its people. And it is this spirit that will allow Lebanon to rise, heal its wounds, and continue to enchant the world with its creativity and overflowing passion for life.
It is important to note that the situation in Lebanon remains extremely volatile, and events may be subject to last-minute changes depending on the security context. It is recommended that interested parties check with organizers for the most up-to-date information regarding these events.
A non-exhaustive list of cultural events scheduled for August
Events maintained:
– Khiyal Sahra: The play written by Georges Khabbaz and starring Adel Karam and Georges Khabbaz will run from August 1 to 31 at the Casino du Liban.
– Ghalboun International Festival 2024: This festival, scheduled for August 2 and 3, has been maintained.
– Baalbeck International Festival: The Baalbeck festival is maintained, with Strings of Baalbeck scheduled for August 29.
– A flea market is still taking place from August 8 to 11 at Place Mar Sassine, Beit Mery.
Events postponed:
– Caracalla Dance Theatre: The premiere of the show Mille et une nuits, and all the daily ongoing performances, have been postponed to a date that will be communicated later.
– Assala concert: The concert of Syrian singer Assala, originally scheduled for August 10, has been postponed.
– Tamer Hosni concert: The concert of the Egyptian artist, scheduled for August 3, has also been postponed.
– Scheherazade concert on August 10 and 11 at Ixsir has been postponed to a later date, which will be communicated as soon as circumstances allow.
– Bkerzay en Musique – Taxi 404 will reunite in concert with Adonis, scheduled for September 5th.
Events canceled:
– Les Musicales de Feytroun: This program, which planned three concerts, has been canceled.
– Saif Nabeel, Haifa Wehbe, Assi al-Hallani, DJ Aseel: A concert featuring these artists scheduled for August 8 at the Beirut Forum has been canceled.
– Mzaar Summer Festival: Vernis Rouge’s concert, scheduled for August 2, has been canceled due to the inability to arrive by plane.
– Bkerzay en Musique: The concerts of Vernis Rouge and Dana Hourani have been canceled.
– Coco Makmak has canceled her show Karakoz scheduled for August 18-19-20 at the Caracalla Theatre.
