For the first time in Lebanon’s political and cultural history, a Prime Minister awarded a medal to an actor on stage, during a live performance.
In a landmark moment blending politics and the performing arts, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam presented the Lebanese Order of Merit (Silver Grade) to veteran stage actor Rifaat Torbey on Friday evening, immediately following his performance of Hamlet, the Mad Prince at the Grand Serail in Beirut.
The honor was granted on behalf of President Joseph Aoun in recognition of Torbey’s prolific career, which spans more than 53 years in theater and cultural life. Salam personally decorated Torbey on stage in the Grand Serail’s main hall, underscoring the government’s acknowledgment of the arts as a cornerstone of national identity and cultural heritage.
The unprecedented tribute was witnessed by an audience of officials, artists and media figures, marking the first time the Lebanese state has bestowed such a distinction to a living actor during a live theatrical performance.
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